Internet support for caregivers of head and neck cancer patients
The Effects of Internet-based Support (Carer eSupport) on Preparedness for Caregiving in Informal Caregivers of Patients With Head and Neck Cancer Compared to Standard Care Support - a Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
NA · Uppsala University · NCT06307418
This study tests whether an online support program can help caregivers of head and neck cancer patients feel more prepared and less overwhelmed compared to regular support.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 110 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Uppsala University (other) |
| Locations | 4 sites (Örebro, Blekinge Län and 3 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06307418 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial investigates the impact of an internet-based support program, Carer eSupport, on informal caregivers of patients with head and neck cancer. Caregivers will be randomly assigned to receive either the Carer eSupport for 18 weeks or standard care support. The study aims to assess changes in caregivers' preparedness for caregiving, burden, and overall wellbeing through questionnaires administered at baseline, post-intervention, and three months after the intervention. The goal is to determine if internet-based support can enhance the caregiving experience.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are informal caregivers of patients with head and neck cancer who are starting or have recently undergone radiotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients who do not understand Swedish or have cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the preparedness and wellbeing of informal caregivers, leading to better support for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown positive outcomes with internet-based support for caregivers, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Informal caregivers who have been identified as an informal caregiver by a patient who have consented to that the informal caregivers is approached. * Informal caregivers of patients with head and neck cancer who are about to start radiotherapy or have undergone at most five radiotherapy treatment session. Radiotherapy may be combined with surgery and/or medical oncological treatment. Exclusion Criteria: * Informal caregivers who do not understand and read Swedish or suffer from cognitive impairment, and informal caregivers with who need support or treatment that cannot be provided by Carer eSupport.
Where this trial is running
Örebro, Blekinge Län and 3 other locations
- Örebro University Hospital — Örebro, Blekinge Län, Sweden (RECRUITING)
- Uppsala university hospital — Uppsala, Uppsala County, Sweden (RECRUITING)
- Norrland University Hospital — Umeå, Västerbotten County, Sweden (RECRUITING)
- Sahlgrenska university hospital — Gothenburg, Västra Götaland County, Sweden (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ylva Tiblom Ehrsson, Assoc prof — Uppsala University
- Study coordinator: Ylva Tiblom Ehrsson, Assoc prof
- Email: ylva.tiblom.ehrsson@uu.se
- Phone: +46707747712
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.
Conditions: Head and Neck Cancer, Informal caregivers, Internet-based support, Preparedness for caregiving, Caregiver burden, Quality of life