Exploring stigma and psychological profiles in rectal and anal cancer patients
Stigma and Psychological profilE in REctal-anal caNcer pAtients
This study looks at the feelings and challenges faced by patients with rectal and anal cancer during long-term treatment to see how these issues affect their mental health and well-being.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 148 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 2 sites (Roma and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06366841 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study focuses on patients with locally advanced rectal and anal cancer who are undergoing long-term radiotherapy. It aims to investigate the psychological distress and stigma associated with these conditions, examining factors such as temperament, personality, and alexithymia. By administering psychological tests, the study seeks to understand the broader psychosocial impacts of rectal cancer beyond physical symptoms. The findings could provide insights into the unique challenges faced by these patients and inform supportive care strategies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 years and older with locally advanced rectal or anal cancer undergoing long-course radiotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients over 75 years old or those undergoing short-course or palliative radiotherapy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of the psychological needs of rectal and anal cancer patients, leading to improved support and interventions.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on stigma and psychological profiling in this context may be novel, related studies have shown the importance of addressing psychosocial factors in cancer care.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Locally advanced rectal and anal cancer patients undergoing a long course of radiotherapy * Patients in chemo-radiation treatment * Ability to understand and complete the questionnaires * Age ≥18 years * Informed consent signed Exclusion Criteria: * Age \> 75 years * Rectal and anal cancer patients undergoing short-course radiotherapy * Rectal and anal cancer patients undergoing palliative radiotherapy * Patients with inability to express informed consent * Patients denying informed consent * Patients with psychopathological disturbances preexisting to the cancer diagnosis * Patients affected by severe language deficits
Where this trial is running
Roma and 1 other locations
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS - Psychology service — Roma, Italy (Recruiting)
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS — Roma, Italy (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Loredana Dinapoli — Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS
- Study coordinator: Loredana Dinapoli
- Email: loredana.dinapoli@policlinicogemelli.it
- Phone: +390630154428
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.