Exploring how couples cope with breast cancer

Breast Cancer, Resilience, Quality of Life and Depression in Couples From Diagnosis to 24 Months Later: Prospective Pilot Study

Observational Regina Elena Cancer Institute · NCT06875414

This study looks at how couples handle the challenges of breast cancer over two years to see what helps them cope and stay strong together.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorRegina Elena Cancer Institute Academic / other
Locations1 site (Roma, Rome)
Trial IDNCT06875414 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the coping strategies of couples when one partner is diagnosed with breast cancer, focusing on their attitudes and resilience over a 24-month period. Participants include women diagnosed with stage 1, 2, or 3 breast cancer and their partners, who will complete questionnaires and participate in focus groups to provide insights into their experiences. The study aims to understand how couples adapt to the stress of illness and the impact on their quality of life.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women aged over 18 diagnosed with stage 1, 2, or 3 breast cancer and their partners who have lived together for at least 6 months.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive deficits or those unable to comply with study requirements may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance support strategies for couples dealing with breast cancer, improving their overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on couple dynamics in chronic illness exist, this specific focus on breast cancer resilience is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
INCLUSION CRITERIA:

* Woman diagnosed with stage 1, 2 or 3 breast cancer
* age\> 18 years (patient and partner)
* The partner must have lived with the woman for at least 6 months at diagnosis and treatment
* Patients under treatment at the radiotherapy clinic
* Subjects available and able to answer questionnaires, interviews, and / or participate in focus groups
* Informed consent

EXCLUSION CRITERIA:

Cognitive deficits and / or inability to comply with the provisions of the study

Where this trial is running

Roma, Rome

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Breast NeoplasmsQuality of Lifebreast cancerquality of liferesiliencedepression
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.