ADIE-BC: a randomised controlled trial
Research type
Research Study
Full title
ADIE-BC: A two-arm, parallel group, randomised controlled trial of the efficacy of ADIE (Aligning Dimensions of Interoceptive Experience) Therapy for anxiety in individuals who have completed treatment for primary breast cancer (BC)
IRAS ID
369405
Contact name
Lauren Heathcote
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
Breast cancer affects around 2.3 million people worldwide each year. Although many people successfully complete treatment, a significant number continue to experience ongoing anxiety. For some, worries about their health, fear of recurrence, and heightened awareness of bodily sensations can persist long after treatment has ended. Existing psychological therapies can help, but they are not effective for everyone, and new approaches are needed that address the specific challenges faced after cancer.
Research suggests that anxiety is linked to changes in how people perceive and interpret signals from their own body (for example, their heartbeat). After cancer, some individuals become more alert to bodily sensations and may interpret them as signs of danger. Others may feel that their body has become unreliable or untrustworthy. These changes can make it harder to regulate emotions and may maintain anxiety.
This study will test a new therapy called ADIE-BC (Aligning Dimensions of Interoceptive Experience – Breast Cancer). ADIE-BC is a six-week programme that uses gentle, computer-based heartbeat exercises to help people become more accurate and confident in sensing their heartbeat. Participants also receive supportive materials designed specifically for breast cancer survivors, encouraging a compassionate and non-judgemental relationship with bodily sensations and helping rebuild trust in the body.
We will compare ADIE-BC with Enhanced Usual Care in a randomised controlled trial. Participants will be randomly allocated to one of the two groups. The study will assess whether ADIE-BC is effective in reducing anxiety after breast cancer treatment, and will also explore how the therapy works. The findings will help determine whether this approach could offer a new evidence-based option for managing anxiety in breast cancer survivors.
REC name
London - Chelsea Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/LO/0459
Date of REC Opinion
6 Jul 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion