Study on preserving fertility in young adults with colorectal cancer
Official title: Preserving Fertility After Colorectal Cancer: The PREFACE Study
Run by Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center · NCT05239338 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 49 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 1000 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Nashville, Tennessee) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 6, 2021 |
| Main results expected | December 2036 |
| Study ends | December 2037 |
| Registry record updated | April 18, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05239338 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: While there have been studies focusing on fertility preservation in cancer patients, this specific approach targeting colorectal cancer in young adults is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center
Nashville, Tennessee, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andreana N Holowatyj, PhD, MSCI — Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: PREFACE Study Coordinator (Rebecca B.)
- Email: prefacestudy@vumc.org
- Phone: 615-936-6204
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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.