University of Colorado Cancer Center is looking for cancer survivors to take part in a clinical trial of a program aimed at helping them manage their condition more effectively. The program, called “Cancer: Thriving and Surviving,” is adapted from a successful effort helping people manage other chronic conditions like diabetes.
With more than 12 million cancer survivors nationwide, researchers would like to know if programs that have proven effective in helping people manage fatigue, frustration, pain and stress might also work for managing similar issues associated with cancer.
“A cancer survivor’s journey does not end after treatment. And therapies and surgeries can have long lasting physical and emotional impact. If proven effective, ‘Cancer: Thriving and Surviving’ can help improve the quality of life for cancer survivors worldwide”, said Betsy Risendal, PhD, assistant research professor in the Colorado School of Public Heath and the trial’s principal investigator<.
Cancer survivors can suffer numerous long-term complications including depression, difficulty concentrating and neuropathy.
The program, the first of its kind in the country, has been adapted especially for cancer survivors. Covered topics include communication with health care providers and family members regarding a cancer diagnosis, how to improve and maintain health and problem solving. The instructors, many of whom are themselves cancer survivors, are specially trained to lead the sessions.
The class will meet weekly for about two hours and for seven weeks. Cancer survivors and their caregivers are welcome to participate. Three metro area classes begin in August, and they may be offered in northern and southern Colorado and rural communities later this year.
There are some eligibility requirements for the study, which is being conducted by CU Cancer Center and funded by the Centers for Disease Control. To find out if you are eligible to enroll, you may call the community research partner, the Consortium for Older Adult Wellness at 303-956-8908 or toll free at 888-900-2629. Two classes begin next month on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora: Aug 3 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. and Aug. 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
About the University of Colorado Cancer Center
The University of Colorado Cancer Center is Colorado’s only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center. Headquartered on the University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, the center is a consortium of three state universities (Colorado State University, University of Colorado at Boulder and University of Colorado Denver) and six institutions (The Children’s Hospital, Denver Health, Denver VA Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Colorado, National Jewish Health and University of Colorado Hospital).
Together, our 440+ members work to relieve suffering from cancer by discovering, developing and delivering breakthroughs in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cancer for the citizens of Colorado, the region and beyond. Learn more at www.coloradocancercenter.org.