Digital Art Therapy for Young Cancer Survivors

Launched by UNC LINEBERGER COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER · Jan 17, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new way to help young adult cancer survivors by using a digital art therapy program called the ARTCan Therapy App. The study aims to see if this app can effectively support their mental health and if participants find it enjoyable and easy to use. Over six weeks, participants will engage in weekly art activities guided by the app and complete surveys about their mental well-being to track any changes.

To join the study, participants must be between 18 and 25 years old, have survived cancer during childhood, and currently experience mood issues. They should also have access to the internet and a device like a computer or smartphone. Importantly, they need to be willing to create art and feel comfortable using technology. The goal is to understand if digital art therapy is a helpful tool for this group of young adults who have been through a lot.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • In order to participate in this study a subject must meet all of the eligibility criteria outlined below.
• • Written informed assent and parental consent obtained to participate in the study and HIPAA authorization for release of personal health information.
• • Subject is willing and able to comply with study procedures based on the judgment of the investigator.
• • Age 18-25 years at the time of consent.
• • Childhood cancer survivor, defined as having cancer between birth 17 years of age and who has completed cancer treatment.
• • Reliable internet connection and access to a computer, smartphone, or iPad to support application and virtual study visits.
• • Answers "yes" to the question "Do you experience mood issues (yes or no)?".
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • All subjects meeting any of the exclusion criteria at baseline will be excluded from study participation.
• • Patients who lack interest in art. Screening question: Are you open to making art on a scale from 1-5 (1 being not at all, and 5 being very much; must score 3 or higher).
• • Subjects who lack basic technology skills (Screening question: On a scale of 1-5 (1 being uncomfortable, and 5 being very comfortable), how would you rate your comfort using websites. Must score 3 or higher).
• • Subjects unable to provide consent.
• • Other conditions or factors which in the opinion of the Pl would not make the patient a good candidate for the study.