Writing exercises for young cancer patients
ChronCan (Chronicling Cancer): Piloting a Novel Writing Intervention With Adolescents and Young Adults With Cancer
This study tests if writing about their cancer experiences can help young patients aged 15-25 feel better and improve their well-being.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 26 (estimated) |
| Ages | 15 Years to 25 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Memphis, Tennessee) |
| Trial ID | NCT05975333 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study explores the feasibility and acceptability of a writing-based narrative medicine intervention for adolescents and young adults with cancer. Participants aged 15-25 will engage in writing about their cancer experiences, guided by an expert writer. They will have the option to meet with the writer for support over a two-month period and will share their thoughts on the experience through informal interviews conducted at various intervals. The study aims to assess whether creative writing can enhance the well-being of young cancer patients.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents and young adults aged 15-25 who are currently receiving cancer-directed therapy at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Not a fit: Patients who do not meet the age or treatment criteria, or those whose parents have not participated in the study, may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide emotional support and improve the well-being of young cancer patients through creative expression.
How similar studies have performed: While few studies have specifically examined writing interventions for young cancer patients, narrative medicine approaches have shown promise in other populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 15-25 * Currently receiving cancer-directed therapy * Active patient at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital * Parent of a ChronCan participant who has passed away Exclusion Criteria: * Does not meet the inclusion criteria * If the parents have not responded or not interviewed till July 31, 2027.
Where this trial is running
Memphis, Tennessee
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital — Memphis, Tennessee, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Erica Kaye, MD — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Erica Kaye, MD
- Email: referralinfo@stjude.org
- Phone: 888-226-4343
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.