Cognitive-Existential Group Therapy to Reduce Fear of Cancer Recurrence: A RCT Study (NCT03270995) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Cognitive-Existential Group Therapy to Reduce Fear of Cancer Recurrence: A RCT Study
Canada144 participantsStarted 2014-10
Plain-language summary
Studies show that cancer survivors have unmet needs, the most frequently cited being fear of recurrence (FCR). Moderate to high levels of FCR have been reported by as much as 49% of cancer patients and are more prevalent among women. FCR is associated with psychological distress, lower quality of life, and increased health care utilization. Little evidence exists that these problems are being addressed by current medical management.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
FEMALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria
. first diagnosis of BC or GC with stages between I-III;
. disease-free at the start of the group;
. women aged 18 years or older;
. completion of treatment, with the exception of adjuvant chemotherapy or hormonal replacement therapy
Exclusion criteria
. non-English speakers
. previous cancer recurrence
. enrolled in another group psychotherapy at the time of the start of the study or during the course of the 6 sessions
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Fear of cancer recurrence inventory
Timeframe: up to 12 months post-intervention follow-up
. unresolved mental health disorder judged to be clinically contra-indicated and/or likely to affect the group work, based on disclosure by the potential participant or clinically identified by the group leader.