Mindfulness-based approach to relieve cancer pain

Adapting Mindfulness-oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) for Cancer Pain Relief: The MORE Relief Trial

Phase 2 Interventional Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center · NCT05877521

This study tests if a mindfulness program can help people with cancer-related pain feel better compared to those getting regular care.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment76 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT05877521 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a mindfulness-based intervention called Mindfulness-oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE) in reducing chronic pain for individuals with cancer-related pain. Participants will engage in mindfulness meditation practices aimed at enhancing their focus on the present moment and fostering acceptance of their thoughts and sensations. The study will compare the outcomes of those receiving MORE treatment against a standard care group. Eligible participants must have a history of cancer and experience significant pain levels.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults aged 18 and older with a history of cancer and chronic pain rated at 4 or greater on a pain scale.

Not a fit: Patients with active suicidality, schizophrenia, or cognitive impairments that prevent participation may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a non-pharmacological option for managing chronic pain in cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise for mindfulness-based interventions in pain management, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* English speaking
* Age ≥ 18 years or older
* A history of cancer with no restrictions placed on type of cancer
* Determined to be either no-evidence of disease or stable oncological disease by referring or study physicians/advanced practice providers
* Having a pain (musculoskeletal, generalized, or neuropathic) rating of 4 or greater in worst pain on a 0-10 numerical rating scale in the preceding week
* Having had pain for at least 3 months and at least 15 days with pain in the preceding 30 days
* Willing to adhere to all study-related procedures, including randomization to one of two treatment arms: MORE or WLC
* Ability to attend video-call session and a quiet/private location

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active suicidality or schizophrenia
* Plan to initiate palliative radiation or interventional pain procedure within the next 12 weeks
* Cognitive impairment preventing completing PRO independently or participate in virtual MORE as evaluated by study clinicians

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

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 Chronic PainCancer Painchronic paincancer painMindfulness-oriented Recovery EnhancementMOREmindfulness-based interventionsMBIs
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.