Horse-assisted therapy for children undergoing radiotherapy
T-QAP: radioTherapy eQuicie Adolescent - Pediatrics
This study tests whether horse-assisted therapy can help children and teens undergoing radiotherapy for cancer feel better and less anxious during their treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 22 (estimated) |
| Ages | 8 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Centre Paul Strauss Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Strasbourg) |
| Trial ID | NCT06330142 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 8 to 17 years who are scheduled for radiotherapy for any type of cancer and can participate in horse-assisted therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who are afraid of horses, have allergies, or significant cognitive impairments may not benefit from this therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the emotional well-being and quality of life for young patients undergoing radiotherapy.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of animal-assisted therapies is gaining traction, this specific approach combining equine therapy with radiotherapy is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 this trial is running
Strasbourg
- Centre Paul Strauss — Strasbourg, France (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Valérie SARTORI
- Email: v.sartori@icans.eu
- Phone: 368767223
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.