Impact of COVID-19 on financial costs for breast cancer surgery patients
Official title: Potential Impact of the COVID -19 Pandemic on Financial Toxicity in Breast Cancer Surgical Patients: The Impact on Out of Pocket Costs, Lost Wages and Economic Strain
Run by M.D. Anderson Cancer Center · NCT04169542 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the out-of-pocket costs and financial struggles of breast cancer patients undergoing surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 600 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 4 sites (Conroe, Texas and 3 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 21, 2019 |
| Main results expected | March 31, 2028 |
| Study ends | March 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | October 7, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04169542 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are English-speaking patients with an indication for surgical treatment of invasive breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with recurrent or metastatic disease, concurrent primary cancers, or those undergoing breast conservation therapy 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 study investigates how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected out-of-pocket costs, lost wages, and unemployment among patients with breast cancer undergoing breast surgery. It aims to collect data on financial toxicity experienced by these patients, particularly those undergoing mastectomy with or without reconstruction. Participants will complete electronic questionnaires before surgery and at intervals post-surgery to assess their financial burden and quality of life. The study seeks to identify which patients are at higher risk for financial distress related to their surgical treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide valuable insights into the financial challenges faced by breast cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, potentially guiding future support and policy changes.
How similar studies have gone: While studies on financial toxicity in cancer care exist, this specific focus on the impact of COVID-19 on breast cancer surgery costs is novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Have an indication for surgical treatment of invasive breast cancer or ductal breast carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or prophylaxis in the setting of genetic mutations or strong family history * English-speaking * Able to complete consent * Able to fill out computer survey material Exclusion Criteria: * Non-English-speaking * Those with recurrent or metastatic disease or concurrent primary cancers * Patients undergoing breast conservation therapy will also be excluded from the study
Where it's running
-
MD Anderson in The Woodlands
Conroe, Texas, United States Recruiting -
M D Anderson Cancer Center
Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting -
MD Anderson League City
League City, Texas, United States Recruiting -
MD Anderson in Sugar Land
Sugar Land, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Carrie Chu, MD — M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Carrie Chu, MD
- Email: ckchu@mdanderson.org
- Phone: 713-794-1247
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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.