NCT06258993 · Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
A Randomized Two-Arm Proof of Concept Study Testing A Novel Approach to Exercise Promotion Based on Affect-regulation
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to test the effect of an affect-based exercise prescription on moderate-vigorous physical activity participation among survivors of breast cancer who completed primary treatment within the last 5 years. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to test the effect of an affect-based exercise prescription on moderate-vigorous physical activity participation among survivors of breast cancer who completed primary treatment within the last 5 years. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Do at least 50% of participants assigned to the affect-based exercise prescription engage in ≥90 minutes of moderate-vigorous physical activity by the end of 12-weeks follow-up? 2. What level of satisfaction do breast cancer survivors who receive the affect-based exercise prescription report relative to breast cancer survivors who receive an effort-based exercise prescription. 3. What proportion of participants assigned to the affect-based exercise prescription stay enrolled in the study relative to the number of participants who stay enrolled in the effort-based exercise prescription. All participants will: * Be assigned to either the Affect-based exercise prescription or the Effort-based exercise prescription. * Participate in two meetings with a member of the study team meant to help them get started increasing weekly exercise. These meetings are the same for all participants. * Be asked to wear an activity monitor and respond to brief surveys for 10 straight days at 4 points in time: Baseline, 2weeks, 6weeks, and 12weeks.
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
- ≥18 years old
- Within 5 years of completing primary cancer treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation) for Stage 0-III breast cancer
- \<60 mins/week moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) with no major changes for the past 6- months
- Own an Android or iPhone smartphone (or tablet) and willing to use it to complete app-based surveys during assessment periods
- Willing to wear the ActiGraph monitor during assessment periods
- Access to internet to complete REDCap survey assessments
Exclusion criteria
- Non-English speaking/not able to read English
- Evidence of major contraindications for exercise (informed by the 2020 Physical Activity Readiness-Questionnaire (PAR-Q)+)
- Currently pregnant
- History of severe mental illness or currently taking mood stabilizing medications (antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, or lithium)
- Evidence of moderate-severe depressive symptoms (indicated by a score≥ 10 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-8)
- Evidence of moderate-severe cognitive impairment (indicated by a score \< 3 on a 6-item cognitive screener)
- Evidence of clinically significant substance use as indicated by a score of ≥ 2 on the CAGE- AID screener.
Where
- Lebanon, New Hampshire
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 Jun 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations