Improving physical activity and mindfulness for young adult cancer survivors

Optimization of a mHealth Physical Activity Promotion Intervention With Mindful Awareness for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors

Not applicable Interventional Northwestern University · NCT05375162

This study is testing a 12-week program that combines exercise and mindfulness to see if it can help young adult cancer survivors be more active and improve their overall well-being.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment304 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 39 Years
SexAll
SponsorNorthwestern University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations2 sites (Chicago, Illinois and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05375162 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to enhance the quality of life for young adult cancer survivors by implementing a 12-week mobile health intervention that combines physical activity with mindfulness techniques. Utilizing a Multiphase Optimization Strategy (MOST), the research will test four components: e-coaching, buddy support, general mindfulness training, and MVPA-specific mindfulness training. The primary goal is to identify which of these components effectively increases moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels over 12 and 24 weeks. Additionally, the study will explore how changes in MVPA may affect other health behaviors and outcomes, such as symptom burden and sleep quality.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are young adults aged 18-39 who have been diagnosed with nonmetastatic cancer within the last five years and are currently engaging in less than 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per week.

Not a fit: Patients with metastatic cancer or those who are not fluent in English may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the physical and mental well-being of young adult cancer survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using mindfulness and physical activity interventions for cancer survivors, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

For YACS

* Diagnosis of nonmetastatic cancer (except non-melanoma skin cancer) within 5 years from the time of screening / study overview session
* Age Diagnosis of cancer between 18-39 years at time of diagnosis and at time of screening / study overview session
* Three or more months post-completion of primary treatment (i.e., surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation); may still be undergoing endocrine or hormone therapies
* Score of 0 on two of the Exercise Preparticipation Health Screening Questionnaire items or willingness to obtain medical clearance from a primary care physician or oncologist
* Self-report engagement in \<60 minutes total each week of MVPA at time of screening / study overview session
* Ownership of a smartphone that is either an iPhone (version 5 or greater) or an Android (version 5.0 or greater)
* Internet access
* Fluency in spoken and written English
* Willingness, at time of screening / study overview session, to find a Buddy (someone who knows about their cancer and participation in this study and who is willing to participate by supporting them during the 6-month study), if assigned to that condition

For "Buddies"

* Friend, co-worker, caregiver or family member of a participating YACS
* Age 18 years or older
* Score of 0 on the Exercise Preparticipation Health Screening Questionnaire or willingness to obtain medical clearance from a primary care physician
* Ownership of a smartphone that is either an iPhone (version 5 or greater) or an Android (version 5.0 or greater)
* Internet access
* Fluency in spoken and written English
* Willingness to share their Fitbit data with the study team

Exclusion Criteria:

* For YACS: Diagnosis of non-melanoma skin cancer
* Absolute contraindications to exercise (i.e., acute myocardial infarction, severe orthopedic conditions), metastatic disease, or planned elective surgery
* Currently pregnant or plans to become pregnant in the next 12 months
* Plans to move out of the United States in next 18 months
* For YACS: Current enrollment in another dietary or physical activity trial
* Inability to provide informed consent
* Prisoners or other detained individuals

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois and 1 other locations

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 CancerYACScancereHealthphysical activitymindfulness
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.