PROSPER
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Psychological therapy Readiness and resourcing in Oncology – Support to Promote an Enhanced Response (PROSPER): a randomised controlled trial
IRAS ID
342394
Contact name
Sam Malins
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Nottinghamshire Health care NHS Foundation trust
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN13692666
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 2 days
Research summary
The trial seeks to evaluate the efficacy of an intervention tailored to support adult patients in cancer care awaiting psychological therapy. This intervention consists of a single remote session lasting 60-90 minutes within two weeks of referral to psychology service, followed by personalised smart messages designed to enhance motivation and behaviour change.
Patients in cancer care are at a heightened risk of experiencing mental health challenges, including an increased risk of suicide. However, these difficulties often go unnoticed, impacting both their quality of life and the effectiveness of cancer treatment. Currently, the wait time for psychological therapy ranges from four to ten weeks, during which symptoms may exacerbate. Moreover, engaging in therapy poses additional challenges, given patients' numerous commitments, necessitating an effective approach to maximise therapy benefits. Research suggests that a brief preparatory intervention can improve therapy outcomes, particularly when combined with technological support.
This proposed intervention, blending a single preparatory session with smart messaging, offers a cost-effective, easily implementable solution to enhance clinical outcomes and mental well-being amongst cancer patients. We aim to assess this intervention by comparing participants receiving the Therapy Preparation Intervention (TPI) alongside Treatment As Usual (TAU) with those receiving TAU alone.
The hypotheses of the study are twofold:
Patients receiving both TPI and TAU will experience a greater reduction in depressive symptoms compared to those receiving TAU alone.
Patients receiving both TPI and TAU will exhibit lower dropout rates than those receiving TAU alone.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/LO/0610
Date of REC Opinion
26 Sep 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion