Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Cancer-related Fatigue in Patients With Cancer Receiving Palliative Systemic Treatment

Launched by ACADEMISCH MEDISCH CENTRUM - UNIVERSITEIT VAN AMSTERDAM (AMC-UVA) · Jul 15, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at a type of therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help reduce severe fatigue in cancer patients who are receiving palliative treatment. Palliative treatment focuses on improving quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, and fatigue is a common and challenging symptom for these patients. The study aims to see if a web-based version of CBT, guided mainly by nurses, can help reduce fatigue as effectively as traditional face-to-face therapy with psychologists. This online approach hopes to be more accessible for patients, making it easier for them to receive support without needing to meet in person as often.

To participate, individuals must be at least 18 years old, speak Dutch, and be receiving specific types of cancer treatment, like chemotherapy or immunotherapy, while experiencing significant fatigue. They'll start with an initial face-to-face session with a psychologist and their nurse to set goals, then continue with 12 weeks of online therapy modules. Regular check-ins with their nurse will help track progress and make adjustments. The study is currently recruiting participants, and those interested should discuss their eligibility with their healthcare provider.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Receive systemic treatment with palliative intent for a solid tumor.
• • Treatments include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and hormone therapy, possibly combined with surgery and/or radiation therapy
• • Are ≥18 years old
• • Are proficient in Dutch
• • Report severe fatigue (Checklist Individual Strength, fatigue severity subscale \[CIS-fatigue\] score ≥35) with no known somatic explanation other than cancer and/or cancer treatment
• • A life expectancy of ≥6 months according to their oncologist
• • Access to a device with internet.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Symptomatic brain metastases
• • Have a poor performance status (Karnofsky \<70)
• • Are currently receiving treatment for a mental disorder.