Study to examine videoconferencing use for rural breast cancer survivors
BANGOR — Researchers at Eastern Maine Medical Center and the University of Maine are currently conducting a study to evaluate the effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for rural breast cancer survivors experiencing memory problems caused by chemotherapy. Because rural cancer survivors often have to travel long distances for follow-up care after cancer treatment, this research will study the effectiveness of using videoconference technology to reduce travel.
The title of the project is “Videoconference CBT for Rural Breast Cancer Survivors with Cognitive Complaints” and the principal investigator is Dr. Robert J. Ferguson, a clinical health psychologist with Eastern Maine Medical Center and the Lafayette Family Cancer Center. The co-principal investigator is Dr. Sandra Sigmon, professor of psychology at the University of Maine. The research is sponsored by a 2-year, $313,951 grant from the National Cancer Institute and Office of Research on Women’s Health.
CBTs are usually short-term, non-drug behavioral programs aimed at improving symptoms and overall health function. Memory problems following chemotherapy, sometimes called “chemo-fog,” can occur in about 25-40 percent of cancer survivors and can be long term. To date, there are no well-established treatments. However, one program called “Memory and Attention Adaptation Training” or “MAAT” has been developed by Dr. Ferguson. Previous research suggests MAAT helps cancer survivors better manage treatment-related memory problems. The study aims to establish if MAAT and/or supportive therapy will be effective when treatment is done through videoconferencing in comparison to direct treatment with a clinician.
Participants will be randomly assigned to the MAAT treatment or supportive therapy for eight sessions. Participants will not have to travel to Bangor. The local sites for the study are MDI hospital, Penobscot Valley Hospital, Blue Hill Memorial Hospital, Millinocket Regional Hospital, Mayo Regional Hospital, The Aroostook Medical Center, Alfond Cancer Center and Maine Medical Center. Participants will go to the nearest local site and receive treatment via videoconferencing during their visits.
The researchers are seeking adult breast cancer survivors with chemotherapy-related memory problems and who have completed chemotherapy at least six months prior to entering the study. There is no limit as to how long they have had memory complaints after chemotherapy. Individuals with other neurological problems such as stroke, brain injury or severe psychiatric illness will not be eligible. Interested individuals can call a toll free number at 1-855-973-7322 to see if they would qualify for the study.