NCT06334354 · Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
A Study of Changes in Thinking Related to Aging and Cancer in Breast Cancer Survivors (TRAC)
(TRAC)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to look at how differences in cognitive (mental) function develop over time in breast cancer survivors compared to volunteers without a history of cancer (healthy volunteers).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to look at how differences in cognitive (mental) function develop over time in breast cancer survivors compared to volunteers without a history of cancer (healthy volunteers). Both cancer survivors and healthy volunteers (who are the same age as the cancer survivors) will participate in this study so the researchers can compare the results of neurocognitive testing (which looks at memory, attention, and information processing) on each group of participants.
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
- All Participants:
- Per medical record and/or self-report, identifies as female
- Per medical record and/or self-report, currently age 60-80
- Per self-report, has access to a computer and internet connectivity
- Score of \<11 on Blessed Orientation-Memory-Concentration Test (BOMC)
- As per medical record or self-report, if currently taking psychoactive medications (including but not limited to antidepressants and anxiolytics), dose must have been stable at least two months prior to enrollment.
- English fluent (as per self-report, fluency of "well" or "very well", and having a reasonable comprehension of the study conversation in the opinion of the research staff)\*\
- Breast Cancer Survivors:
- Per medical record and/or self-report, history of stage 0-3 breast cancer diagnosed between 50-60 years of age
- Per medical record and/or self-report, no evidence of disease (NED) Non-Cancer Controls:
- Per self-report, no history of breast cancer
- Language verification: For both survivors and controls, prior to enrollment, all will be asked the following two questions by a CRC to verify English fluency necessary for participation in the study:
- How well do you speak English? (must respond "Well" or "Very well" when given the choices of Very well, Well, Not well, Not at all, Don't know, or Refused)
- What is your preferred language for healthcare? (must respond English)
Exclusion criteria
- All participants:
- As per medical record or self-report, diagnosis of neurodegenerative disorder that affects cognitive function (e.g. Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Dementia, Seizure Disorders, etc.)
- As per medical record or self-report, history of stroke or head injury resulting in a structural lesion on neuropsych imaging, persistent cognitive difficulties impacting work or daily life, or required cognitive rehabilitation
- As per medical record or self-report, a diagnosis of a major Axis I psychiatric disorder including Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder, substance use disorder, Bipolar Disorder or Schizotypal personality disorder. Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders include Schizophrenia, Schizophreniform disorder, Schizoaffective disorder, Delusional disorder, Brief psychotic disorder, and Attenuated Psychotic Disorder.
- As per medical record or self-report, visual or auditory impairment that would preclude ability to complete the assessments (e.g. history of significant macular degeneration or being unable to correct hearing with hearing aids)
- As per medical record or self-report, use of methotrexate (Amethopterin, Rhematrex, Trexall) or rituximab (Rituxin) for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis or Crohn's disease, or cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan, Neosar) for lupus.
- As per medical record or self-report, participation in a conflicting (overlapping neurocognitive assessments) research study (i.e. MSK 18-294) Breast Cancer Survivors:
- As per medical record or self-report, history of cancer recurrence
- As per medical record or self-report, any history of another cancer except nonmelanoma skin cancer or first breast cancer (a secondary breast cancer is exclusionary)
- As per medical record or self-report, breast cancer only treated with surgery Non-Cancer Controls:
- As per medical record or self-report, history of treatment using radiation, chemotherapy, and/or Tamoxifen or Aromatase-inhibitors
- As per medical record or self-report, any history of cancer except non-melanoma skin cancer
Where
- Basking Ridge, New Jersey
- Middletown, New Jersey
- Montvale, New Jersey
- Commack, New York
- Harrison, New York
- New York, New York
- Uniondale, New York
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 May 14, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations