Sexual Dysfunction Screening for Pediatric Cancer Survivors
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to improve how doctors recognize sexual dysfunction in young people who had cancer during childhood. The study will test a new screening method for sexual health issues, aiming to make discussions about sexual function more common and comfortable in medical settings. Participants will help researchers assess the effectiveness and user-friendliness of this new screening approach, known as the Sexual Function Screening Approach. The trial seeks participants aged 15-24 who were diagnosed with cancer before age 18 and have undergone treatment such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to important research that could enhance future healthcare experiences for young cancer survivors.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications to join the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this sexual function screening approach is safe for pediatric cancer survivors?
Research has shown that the Sexual Function Screening Approach, particularly the PROMIS SexFS Brief, serves as a reliable and effective tool. It measures sexual function and satisfaction based on self-reports from adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Studies have found it well-received and useful for identifying sexual dysfunction, a common issue among childhood cancer survivors.
No evidence indicates any negative effects or safety concerns with this screening method. This suggests it is a safe and straightforward way to assess sexual health issues in this group. Designed to gather information directly from patients about their experiences, the tool generally poses low risk.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it aims to improve the way healthcare providers address sexual dysfunction in young cancer survivors, a topic often overlooked in standard care. Unlike current practices that may not consistently include sexual health discussions, this trial implements routine sexual function screenings, making it a regular part of the care process. By integrating these screenings, the trial seeks to enhance communication between patients and healthcare providers, ultimately leading to better patient satisfaction and more comprehensive care. Additionally, the trial will explore how feasible and appropriate this approach is, potentially setting a new standard for addressing sexual health in pediatric cancer survivorship.
What evidence suggests that this sexual function screening approach is effective for pediatric cancer survivors?
Research shows that the Sexual Function Screening method, studied in this trial, helps identify sexual problems in young cancer survivors. Past studies have found the PROMIS SexFS Brief, a component of this method, to be both acceptable and reliable. This trial includes pre-implementation and post-implementation arms to assess the impact of routine sexual function screening. Early results suggest that this tool improves communication about sexual health between young survivors and their healthcare providers, potentially addressing sexual health problems sooner and more effectively.15678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jenna Demedis
Principal Investigator
University of Colorado, Denver
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for young individuals aged 15-24 who have had or are currently dealing with childhood cancer, diagnosed before age 18. They must be able to consent, follow the study plan, and visit one of four specific clinics. Excluded are those unable to read/speak English, without cancer-directed therapy like chemo or surgery, cognitively impaired as judged by a clinician, at end-of-life care or already in hospice.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening Development
Integration of patient and provider feedback to refine a standardized sexual function screening approach
Pre-Implementation
Collection of baseline data on sexual function screening and patient satisfaction through surveys and medical record review
Implementation
Clinic-wide implementation of the sexual function screening intervention as standard of care
Post-Implementation
Collection of post-implementation data on effectiveness and implementation outcomes via survey and EHR review
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for effectiveness and implementation outcomes after intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Sexual Function Screening Approach
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Colorado, Denver
Lead Sponsor
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Collaborator
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator