NCT06791057 · Massachusetts General Hospital
Multi-site Trial of a Brief Behavioral Intervention for Dyspnea in Patients With Advanced Lung Cancer
(BREEZE+)
What this study is about
Dyspnea, or breathlessness, is one of the most common and distressing symptoms experienced by patients with advanced lung cancer.
View original scientific description
Dyspnea, or breathlessness, is one of the most common and distressing symptoms experienced by patients with advanced lung cancer. The purpose of this multi-site trial is to test the effectiveness of a dyspnea intervention (called BREEZE+) that includes three brief nurse-delivered sessions and access to a digital health app that teaches and reinforces patients' use of skills for managing and coping with this highly debilitating symptom. This study will lay the groundwork for a follow-up pragmatic implementation trial integrating BREEZE+ into usual oncology care for patients with advanced lung cancer experiencing dyspnea.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Dyspnea Intervention
Brief behavioral intervention for dyspnea management that includes three nurse-led sessions focused on psychoeducation, behavioral techniques for managing acute breathlessness, and relaxation training for reducing physiological stress as well as a digital health app to reinforce practice of breathing skills.
BEHAVIORAL
Enhanced Usual Care
Patients will receive educational materials on the management of symptoms of lung cancer and its treatment as well as any usual care for dyspnea deemed appropriate by the clinical team.
Primary outcome measures
Patient-reported Dyspnea
Time frame: 8 weeks
To compare patient-reported dyspnea between study groups at 8 weeks using the Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale, which is a one-item self-report scale to evaluate the degree of a patient's dyspnea (score range: 0-4), with a higher score indicating worse dyspnea.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age ≥18 years
- Diagnosis of advanced lung cancer (i.e., non-small cell lung cancer or small cell lung cancer) or mesothelioma, not being treated with curative intent
- Self-report at least moderate dyspnea per a rating ≥4 on the validated 0-10 breathlessness item of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale-Revised
- Functioning independently per an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status ≤2
- Ability to read and respond to questions in English or Spanish
- Receiving primary cancer care at one of the participating institutions
Exclusion criteria
- Significant uncontrolled psychiatric disorder or other co-morbid disease (e.g., dementia, cognitive impairment), which the treating oncology clinician reports would prohibit the patient's ability to participate in study procedures.
Where
- Coral Gables, Florida
- Boston, Massachusetts
Collaborators
University of Miami, National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 19, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations