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Virginia Commonwealth University School of Public Health — Improving Communication and Adherence in Black Breast Cancer Survivors

Virginia Commonwealth University School of Public Health — Improving Communication and Adherence in Black Breast Cancer Survivors

Researcher(s):

Vannessa B. Sheppard, PhD, Principal investigator
Ginell Ampey, Clinical Research Coordinator

Summary/Abstract:

The project aims to improve patient-provider interactions and health outcomes among women with breast cancer. Participants in this study will be assigned to one of two groups: one that involves meetings with a trained breast cancer survivor coach or another that receives an informational booklet from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Throughout the study, which lasts up to 36 months, participants will complete surveys at various intervals. These surveys will explore decision-making involvement and communication with healthcare providers.

What does participation involve?

This study addresses a critical issue in breast cancer care for Black women, focusing on improving adherence to systemic therapies. Black women experience higher physical and psychological symptom burdens during the first year of adjuvant endocrine therapy, which is associated with lower adherence. By focusing on patient-centered communication and developing tailored interventions, this study has the potential to impact cancer care delivery for Black women significantly. It addresses a critical gap in current treatment approaches and could lead to more equitable outcomes in breast cancer care.

  • Complete a telephone eligibility screening
  • Complete baseline survey with a team member over the phone
  • Randomization into either the treatment or intervention group
  • Complete yearly follow-up survey for up to 36 months

Must be:

  • ≥ 18 years of age
  • Self-identify as Black
  • Self-identify as woman
  • Newly diagnosed (patients (stage 0-III)(stage 0/DCIS breast cancer)
  • Eligible for chemotherapy or endocrine therapy according to NCCN guidelines but have not initiated systemic therapy
  • Ability to read and speak English
  • Ability to provide meaningful consent as determined by trained study personnel and/or a member of the patient’s care team
  • No prior cancer treatment (other than skin cancer) in the two years preceding enrollment

Exclusions:

  • Current enrollment in another provider-patient communication/or treatment adherence trial
  • Inability to consent to study participation and/or in-person sessions
  • Telephone inaccessibility

Where/Location?

US Virtual

How to sign up for this study:

Click on the link below to determine if you are eligible.  If you are eligible, the study team will follow-up with you for next steps in the study.

https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=WPWPP7EH4LXECM3Y