Parent Fear of Recurrence Therapy for Cancer Anxiety
(Parent-FORT Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new therapy called Parent Fear of Recurrence Therapy (Parent-FORT), designed to help parents manage the fear of their child's cancer returning. Many parents of childhood cancer survivors experience high anxiety about recurrence, which can reduce their quality of life. The study will compare parents who receive the therapy immediately with those who wait three months to determine the therapy's effectiveness and reception. Suitable candidates are parents living in Canada who care for a child cancer survivor and experience significant anxiety about the cancer returning. As an unphased trial, this study provides parents the chance to access innovative support strategies and contribute to valuable research.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to consult with the trial coordinators or your healthcare provider for guidance.
What prior data suggests that this therapy is safe for parents of childhood cancer survivors?
Research shows that Parent Fear of Recurrence Therapy (Parent-FORT) is generally safe for participants. This therapy involves group sessions that include relaxation exercises and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), both proven methods for managing anxiety and stress.
In other studies, similar therapies have been well-received, with participants often reporting satisfaction and benefits from the sessions. No major negative effects have been reported, suggesting that Parent-FORT is likely a safe choice for parents concerned about cancer recurrence.
This pilot study aims to assess the practicality and acceptability of Parent-FORT. Similar programs have been tested successfully in other groups, demonstrating positive results with minimal risks.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Parent Fear of Recurrence Therapy (Parent-FORT) because it's a specialized approach that targets the unique anxiety parents face about their child's cancer returning. Unlike standard treatments that often focus purely on the patient's mental health, this therapy provides tailored psychoeducation for parents, combining relaxation techniques and cognitive-behavioral therapy to directly address their specific fears. This method not only helps reduce anxiety but also equips parents with practical strategies to manage their worries effectively, filling a crucial gap in current mental health care for families dealing with cancer.
What evidence suggests that Parent-FORT might be an effective treatment for fear of cancer recurrence?
Research has shown that Fear of Cancer Recurrence Therapy (FORT) can reduce fear in cancer patients. One study found that FORT significantly lowered the fear of cancer returning, both immediately after treatment and three months later. This therapy includes group sessions, relaxation exercises, and techniques to change negative thinking. In this trial, participants will receive a version of this therapy called Parent Fear of Recurrence Therapy (Parent-FORT), specifically adapted for parents of children who have survived cancer. While FORT primarily targets cancer patients, it might also benefit family caregivers, who often experience equal or greater fear. This adaptation for parents is a promising idea being tested in this study.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Sophie Lebel, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Ottawa
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for parents of childhood cancer survivors who are experiencing high levels of fear that the cancer will come back. It's designed to see if a special therapy can help them feel better and improve their quality of life. Parents must be able to attend sessions and fill out questionnaires.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-therapy Meeting
One-on-one meeting with a study therapist to prepare participants for group work
Treatment
Participants receive 7 weekly group therapy sessions of Parent-FORT intervention
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in fear of cancer recurrence and quality of life
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Parent Fear of Recurrence Therapy (Parent-FORT)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Ottawa
Lead Sponsor
Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario
Collaborator
Alberta Children's Hospital
Collaborator