Managing fear of cancer progression with different psychological approaches

Managing Fear of Cancer Progression Metacognition-based Vs Supportive-expressive Based Approaches: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional The University of Hong Kong · NCT05679518

This study is testing two different therapy programs to see if they can help Chinese patients with advanced cancer feel less afraid of their illness getting worse.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment261 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations4 sites (Hong Kong and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05679518 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study conducts a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of two psychological interventions, CALM and ConquerFear, in reducing fear of cancer progression among Chinese patients diagnosed with advanced cancer. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the CALM intervention, the ConquerFear intervention, or a basic cancer care intervention. The study aims to assess both the direct effects of these interventions on fear of cancer progression and the indirect effects of the ConquerFear intervention through its impact on maladaptive metacognition. The trial will involve six psychotherapy sessions for eligible participants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are Cantonese- or Mandarin-speaking Chinese patients aged 18 and above, recently diagnosed with advanced or metastatic cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with major communication difficulties or those unwilling to commit to six psychotherapy sessions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce fear of cancer progression in patients, improving their psychological well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using psychological interventions to manage fear and anxiety in cancer patients, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Cantonese- or Mandarin-speaking Chinese patients recently diagnosed with advanced or metastatic (i.e. stage III or IV) cancer
* are the age of 18 years or above

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with major communication difficulties
* are being unwilling or unable to commit 6 psychotherapy sessions

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong and 3 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 Advanced or Metastatic CancerFear of Cancer ProgressionMetacognition-based InterventionSupportive-expressive Based InterventionPsychooncology
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.