Managing fear of cancer progression with different psychological approaches
Official title: Managing Fear of Cancer Progression Metacognition-based Vs Supportive-expressive Based Approaches: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT05679518 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 284 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 4 sites (Hong Kong and 3 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 20, 2023 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | August 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05679518 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are Cantonese- or Mandarin-speaking Chinese patients aged 18 and above, recently diagnosed with advanced or metastatic cancer.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with major communication difficulties or those unwilling to commit to six psychotherapy sessions 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 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.
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 gone: Other studies have shown promise in using psychological interventions to manage fear and anxiety in cancer patients, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Queen Mary Hospital-Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting -
Queen Mary Hospital-Department of Surgery
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting -
Queen Mary Hospital-Department of Oncology
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Not yet recruiting -
Tung Wah Hospital-Department of Surgery
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Wendy Wing Tak Lam, PhD — School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong
- Study coordinator: Danielle Wing Lam Ng, PhD
- Email: dwlng@hku.hk
- Phone: +852 39179897
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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.