PhD-student
Regina Wittchen Sørensen
Department of Oncology, Odense University Hospital
| Project management | ||
| Project status | Open | |
| Data collection dates | ||
| Start | 01.01.2025 | |
| End | 31.12.2027 | |
Incorporating patients and family perspectives in the monitoring process for metastatic breast cancer - The Monitor Family Study
Short summary
Metastatic breast cancer often affects the psychosocial well-being of patients and their families, while current monitoring practices primarily emphasize clinical outcomes. This study aims to develop and evaluate a stepped-care intervention, guided by Family Systems Theory, to incorporate patient and family perspectives and strengthen holistic, family-centered support during the monitoring process in the patient's course of treatment.
Rationale
Metastatic breast cancer is an incurable disease that not only affects patients but also significantly influences the psychosocial well-being of their families. While monitoring of disease progression is essential for timely treatment adjustments, it may also increase distress, uncertainty, and fear of progression. Current monitoring strategies primarily focus on clinical outcomes, leaving psychosocial aspects underexplored and support needs unmet. To address this gap, the MONITOR Family project aims to develop and evaluate a stepped-care intervention across four interconnected substudies, all guided by Family Systems Theory, to incorporate patient and family perspectives and to strengthen holistic, family-centered support during the monitoring process in the patient's course of treatment.
Description of the cohort
The cohort comprises adult patients (≥18 years) diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who are currently undergoing disease monitoring, together with their family members (≥18 years). All participants are required to provide informed consent. Family is defined by the patient and may include biological relatives, close friends, or other significant individuals, such as neighbors, who provide emotional, practical, or social support.
Data and biological material
No biological material will be collected in this study. Data will include demographic information, clinical data, and psychosocial data obtained via validated questionnaires assessing fear of progression, distress, resilience, health literacy, and family health.
Collaborating researchers and departments
Department of Oncology, Odense University Hospital