CompletedNot Applicable

Needs Assessment for Individuals and Families Affected by Dyskeratosis Congenita (DC) and Related Telomere Biology Disorders (TBD)

United States53 participantsStarted 2021-09-09

Plain-language summary

Background: DC and related TBDs are a group of illnesses caused by variants in genes that regulate telomeres. These illnesses can cause problems with the skin and mucous membranes. They can also cause ophthalmic, dental, immunologic, and other abnormalities. Researchers want to learn more about these illnesses and the people who have them. Objective: To learn about the informational, pragmatic, and psychosocial challenges and unmet needs of individuals and families affected by DC and related TBDs. Eligibility: People aged 18 years and older who have DC or related TBD or who are, or have been, a caregiver to someone with DC or related TBD. Design: This study has 2 parts: a survey and a telephone interview. Participants may choose to take part in one or both parts. Participants may complete an online survey. They will select which group most applies to them: person with DC/TBD; parent/caregiver to a person with DC/TBD; or bereaved parent/caregiver of a person who had DC/TBD. The survey will be based on the group they choose. They will answer 20-30 questions. The survey will take 10-20 minutes to complete. Participants may take part in a phone interview. It will take 50-70 minutes to complete. They will give their name, email address, and phone number to schedule the interview. The interview will be audio recorded and transcribed. Personal identifiers will be removed.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 100 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Exclusion criteria

Individuals who do not meet eligibility criteria listed above. No other exclusionary criteria apply.

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

Needs Assessment

Timeframe: Will be ongoing while the study is open

Trial details

NCT IDNCT04959188

SponsorNational Cancer Institute (NCI)

Sponsor typeNIH

Study typeOBSERVATIONAL

Primary completion2023-07-05

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Dyskeratosis Congenita trials