CARE Study: Cancer, Asian Americans, and Relationship Enrichment

Launched by FOX CHASE CANCER CENTER · Jan 16, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The CARE Study is looking at how to help Asian American cancer patients and their caregivers by providing activities that promote positive feelings and strengthen their relationships. The main goal is to reduce the stress caregivers may feel while supporting their loved ones. This study is currently recruiting participants who are Asian American adults aged 21 to 75, who have been diagnosed with cancer within the last year or have stage 4 cancer. To participate, patients need to have a caregiver who lives with them or sees them frequently and can communicate in English or Mandarin.

Participants in the study can expect to engage in activities designed to improve their sense of independence and connection with their caregivers, which can lead to better emotional well-being. The study is open to caregivers as well, provided they also identify as Asian American and can communicate in English or Mandarin. It's important to note that individuals with certain health conditions or who are unable to participate physically may not be eligible. Overall, this study aims to create a supportive environment for both patients and their caregivers during a challenging time.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria for Patients:
• • 1. self-identifies as Asian American or Asian
• • 2. males or females ages 21-80 years
• • 3. within 1 year of any cancer diagnosis or stage 4 cancer diagnosis
• • 4. actively undergoing surgery or systemic therapy (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy) or within the past 6 months,
• • 5. able to identify a caregiver (e.g., spouse) who lives in the same household or see at least 3 times per week
• • 6. able to read, write, and speak English (i.e., English proficient; EP) or Mandarin/simplified Chinese.
• Exclusion Criteria for patients:
• • 1. life expectancy less than 6 months in the opinion of the primary physician
• • 2. inability to stand or walk on their own or other physical limitations that preclude them from participating (3+ on ECOG performance status),
• • 3. major thought disorder (e.g., schizophrenia or bipolar \[patient records or self-disclosure\]).
• Inclusion Criteria for Caregivers:
• • 1. identifies as Asian American or Asian,
• • 2. patient considers them to be caregiver
• • 3. English proficient or Mandarin Chinese proficient
• • 4. access to computer/phone, internet, and web browser.
• Exclusion Criteria for Caregivers:
• • 1. unwilling or unable to participate in the study for any reason,
• • 2. under the age of 18.