Impact of Caregivers on Cancer Patients' Treatment Pathways

The Role of Caregiver in the Clinical Pathway of Patients Newly Diagnosed With Breast and Prostate Cancer: a Randomized Study

Not applicable Interventional European Institute of Oncology · NCT06468293

This study tests if having caregivers involved in the early treatment process helps people with breast or prostate cancer feel better and have a smoother experience before seeing their doctor.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment102 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorEuropean Institute of Oncology Academic / other
Locations1 site (Milan)
Trial IDNCT06468293 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized longitudinal study evaluates the long-term effects of caregiver involvement in the cancer care pathway for patients diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer. It includes a psychological support intervention aimed at both patients and their caregivers, delivered after a suspected cancer diagnosis and prior to the oncologist consultation. Participants will complete self-report questionnaires, and sociodemographic and clinical data will be collected to assess the intervention's impact on the care experience. The study focuses on early-stage cancer patients who have not yet discussed treatment options with their oncologist.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who have recently received a diagnosis of early-stage breast or prostate cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced-stage cancer or those with pre-existing mental disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the emotional and psychological support for cancer patients and their caregivers, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with caregiver involvement in cancer care, suggesting that this approach may be beneficial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Patient:

* Patient aged ≥18 years at the time of recruitment.
* Patients who have just received a cancer diagnosis and have yet to discuss with their oncologist the treatment to undergo after diagnosis of breast or prostate cancer.
* Early-stage cancer (I or II).

Caregiver:

* Age ≥ 18 at the time of recruitment.
* Taking care of the patient.

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients:

* Presence of early mental disorders (before age 40) or severe neurological disorder.
* Patients with advanced stage cancer for which the path is already defined (palliative care patients).

Caregivers:

● Presence of early mental disorders (before age 40) or severe neurological disorder.

Where this trial is running

Milan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.