Horse-assisted therapy for children undergoing radiotherapy

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study explores the use of horse-assisted therapy (HAT) to support children and adolescents receiving radiotherapy for cancer. The approach aims to enhance the quality of life and alleviate anxiety during treatment by providing therapeutic sessions with horses. Participants will engage in 10 sessions of equine-assisted therapy, allowing them to escape the hospital environment and foster a positive emotional experience. The study will assess the impact of these sessions on both the patients and their parents throughout the course of radiotherapy.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Children aged 8 to \<18 years.
* With an indication for radiotherapy for cancer (of any type)
* Patients hospitalized and/or managed on an ambulatory basis
* WHO ≤ 2
* Child and parents (or accompanying adults) who speak and understand French
* Free, express and informed consent of the adult patient OR of those exercising parental authority for minor patients
* Child with social security coverage

Exclusion Criteria:

* Children afraid of horses and stables
* Contraindication to the practice of equine-assisted therapy (allergy to horses or dust, children with asthma attacks triggered by dust/animal hair ...)
* Patient on stretcher
* Children or parents (or carers) with significant cognitive impairment, making self-assessment or hetero-assessment impossible even with assistance
* Unavailability or lack of interest in participating in equine-assisted therapy sessions

Where it's running

• Centre Paul Strauss
  Strasbourg, France Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Valérie SARTORI
• Email: v.sartori@icans.eu
• Phone: 368767223

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.