Memory Training for Breast Cancer Survivors

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byElizabeth Ryan, PhD

Age: 18+

Sex: Female

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The purpose of this study is to test a memory training program for breast cancer survivors who have problems with memory after receiving chemotherapy. Since breast cancer survivors have been reported to have trouble with their memory, a program to help these problems is important. Studies have shown that a 5-week software training program improved memory in pediatric cancer survivors and other disorders like stroke, but it has not been tested for breast cancer survivors. This study will see if breast cancer survivors can improve their memory and attention problems by using either one of two software versions of the program. One version is called Cogmed Working Memory Training, and the other is a comparison version of the software that has the same exercises but is less difficult. People who decide to participate in the study will be randomly given one of the two versions.

Research Team

Elizabeth Ryan, PhD

Principal Investigator

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for female breast cancer survivors aged 18-69 who've had chemotherapy 1-10 years ago and are currently disease-free. They must speak English, have basic computer skills, internet access, and show memory problems on specific tests. Excluded are those with significant past brain injury or cognitive issues from other conditions.

Inclusion Criteria

Must be able speak, read and write English well enough to complete written and verbal assessments and neurocognitive tests

You need to show that your memory and thinking skills are below a certain level compared to others, based on specific tests and assessments.

I have a family member or friend who sees me at least once a week.

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Exclusion Criteria

I have a neurological disorder like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, MS, or epilepsy.

I have had a traumatic brain injury with significant loss of consciousness or lasting effects.

My cancer has come back.

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Treatment Details

Interventions

Cogmed Working Memory Training Program (Behavioral Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe study evaluates a memory training program called Cogmed Working Memory Training to see if it improves memory and attention in breast cancer survivors post-chemotherapy. Participants will use either the standard software or a less challenging version randomly assigned.

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Collateral sourceExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participants from both groups will be asked to complete two follow up neurocognitive assessments face to face at MSKCC. The first will be completed within 1-4 weeks after completing the memory training and the second will take place 3-4 months after completing the memory training. Collateral sources will be contacted at these same points to complete their brief assessments as well to test for maintenance of the treatment effect.

Group II: Breast cancer survivorsExperimental Treatment1 Intervention