Study on preserving fertility in young adults with colorectal cancer

Preserving Fertility After Colorectal Cancer: The PREFACE Study

Observational Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center · NCT05239338

This study is testing how colorectal cancer and its treatments affect fertility and sexual health in young adults aged 18 to 49.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 49 Years
SexAll
SponsorVanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Nashville, Tennessee)
Trial IDNCT05239338 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The Preserving Fertility After Colorectal Cancer (PREFACE) Study is a prospective, longitudinal cohort investigation focusing on reproductive health and clinical outcomes for individuals aged 18 to 49 diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Participants are recruited before starting cancer treatment and are followed for up to 36 months post-treatment completion. The study includes regular assessments at defined intervals and collects a variety of biospecimens and data to understand the impact of colorectal cancer on fertility and sexual health. This comprehensive approach aims to provide insights into the long-term effects of cancer treatment on reproductive health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18 to 49 who have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and are consulting with a participating physician.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant at the time of diagnosis or those with a prior history of colorectal cancer may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide critical information to help preserve fertility in young adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies focusing on fertility preservation in cancer patients, this specific approach targeting colorectal cancer in young adults is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Known diagnosis of colorectal cancer
* Age 18 to 49 years at colorectal cancer diagnosis
* Diagnosed by and/or consulting with a physician participating in the PREFACE Study
* No prior history of colorectal cancer and/or colorectal cancer treatment
* Mentally and physically able to consent and participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Women who are pregnant at the time of colorectal cancer diagnosis
* Prisoners
* Unable to provide informed consent
* Unable to read, write, or complete questionnaires in English

Where this trial is running

Nashville, Tennessee

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 Colorectal Cancer
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.