Exploring stigma and psychological profiles in rectal and anal cancer patients
Official title: Stigma and Psychological profilE in REctal-anal caNcer pAtients
Run by Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS · NCT06366841 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 148 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 2 sites (Roma and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 6, 2024 |
| Main results expected | October 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | July 1, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | October 14, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06366841 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 years and older with locally advanced rectal or anal cancer undergoing long-course radiotherapy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients over 75 years old or those undergoing short-course or palliative radiotherapy may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.