Expressive writing to help manage stress in cancer survivors
COVID-19: A Virtual Feasibility Study to Manage Stress
This study tests if writing about their experiences can help cancer survivors manage stress better than writing about neutral topics.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 414 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Houston, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT04776941 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of expressive writing as a method to manage stress among cancer survivors. Participants are randomized into two groups: one engages in expressive writing about their experiences, while the other writes about neutral topics. Both groups complete questionnaires regarding their mood, health, and income at various intervals. The study aims to assess the feasibility of this virtual intervention and its preliminary impact on stress levels in cancer survivors, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with cancer within the past three years and can communicate in English.
Not a fit: Patients who are unable to provide informed consent or do not speak English may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide cancer survivors with a valuable tool to cope with stress and improve their overall well-being.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of expressive writing in this context may be novel, similar studies have shown positive outcomes in using writing interventions for stress management.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * At least 18 years old * Have a diagnosis of cancer within the past 3 years * Are able to speak and read in English * Have access to a computer or smart phone with internet connection * All disease sites and all cancer stages are eligible for enrollment Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to provide informed consent * Non-English speakers will be excluded because this is a feasibility study that will enroll only a limited number of participants
Where this trial is running
Houston, Texas
- M D Anderson Cancer Center — Houston, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Qian Lu — M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Qian LU, MD,PHD
- Email: qlu@mdanderson.org
- Phone: 713-745-8324
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.