Using behavioral activation to treat depression in older cancer survivors
Brief Behavioral Activation for the Treatment of Depression in Older Adult Cancer Survivors
This study is testing if a phone or video therapy called behavioral activation can help older cancer survivors feel less depressed and improve their mental health.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (New York, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT05574127 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of a psychotherapy method called behavioral activation (BA) delivered remotely via telephone or videoconference for treating depression in older adult cancer survivors. Participants will be individuals aged 65 and older with a history of cancer who are currently in survivorship clinics or have been disease-free for at least six months. The study aims to assess whether this approach can improve mental health outcomes in this vulnerable population. The intervention includes behavioral activation and supportive psychotherapy tailored to the needs of older adults.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 65 and above with a history of cancer who are currently in survivorship clinics or have been disease-free for at least six months.
Not a fit: Patients requiring a higher level of care for suicidal ideation or those who do not meet the eligibility criteria will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide an accessible and effective treatment option for depression in older adult cancer survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using behavioral activation for depression, particularly in older adults, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * As per self-report or medical record, ≥65 years old * As per self-report or medical record, has a history of cancer * As per medical record and/or clinician confirmation: * a patient in MSK Survivorship Clinics AND/OR * no evidence of disease (NED) AND/OR * 6 months or more post-treatment (patients on maintenance hormonal therapies are eligible) * Fluent in English, as per self-reported fluency of "well" or "very well"\* * As per self-report, able to communicate over video-conference and/or phone for sessions * Elevated score on the PHQ-9: ≥5 (N/A for Training Case participants) * Received a Blessed Orientation-Memory-Concentration Scale (BOMC) score of ≤ 11 (N/A for Training Case participants) Exclusion Criteria: * As per PI determination, requires a higher level of care for current passive or active suicidal ideation than current protocol is able to provide. If a participant receives a score of \> 0 on item 9 of the PHQ-9, they will be referred to study PI for further evaluation. They will be excluded from participation in this study if the PI determines they would be appropriate for a higher level of care than BA may be able to provide. * As per self-report or as documented in the medical record, current untreated (e.g., no medication, no therapy) major psychotic disorder (schizotypal personality disorder, schizophreniform disorder, schizoaffective disorder). Patients diagnosed with a major psychiatric disorder will be reviewed by the study PI to determine eligibility prior to consent. * As per self-report or medical record, currently taking antidepressant medication for \< 3 month * As per medical record, patient has impaired decision-making capacity
Where this trial is running
New York, New York
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (All Protocol Activities) — New York, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Rebecca Saracino, PhD — Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Rebecca Saracino, PhD
- Email: jamesr@mskcc.org
- Phone: 646-888-0263
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.