NCT06744283 · National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Experience and Management of Cancer Screening-Related Anxiety in Fanconi Anemia
What this study is about
Background: Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare, inherited cancer syndrome. FA causes a range of physical issues. Children with FA may have abnormal features; these may include a small head and eyes and issues with their internal organs. Young adults have a much higher risk of cancer. To screen for these cancers, people with FA may need to pursue many visits with different doctors.
View original scientific description
Background: Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare, inherited cancer syndrome. FA causes a range of physical issues. Children with FA may have abnormal features; these may include a small head and eyes and issues with their internal organs. Young adults have a much higher risk of cancer. To screen for these cancers, people with FA may need to pursue many visits with different doctors. This constant need for cancer screening may cause anxiety for people with FA. Objective: To learn more about anxiety related to cancer screenings in people with FA. Eligibility: Adults aged 18 years and older with FA. They must also be enrolled in FACSS. FACSS is a study that screens people with FA for cancer every year. Design: All data gathered for this study will occur during routine FACSS visits. No other visits are needed. An observer will be in the room during participants FACSS visits. The observer and participant will have a polite introduction. After that, the observer will not interact with participants in any way. The observer will note details about the participants, such as: * Body language. * Worries about screening. * Comments that suggest anxiety or depression. * Clinical environment, such as d(SqrRoot)(Copyright)cor and temperature. * Accessibility issues. These can include lights and noises as well as ease of traveling around the clinic center. * Evidence of social support, such as engaging in the FA community. * Challenges they ve had in FACSS. * Their motivation to participate in FACSS. * Relationship dynamics among clinic staff, participants, and their care partners. Data will also be collected from FACSS visit notes dating back to December 2024 and from participants medical records.
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
- Participants enrolled in the FACSS protocol who are 18 years of age or older are eligible for inclusion in this study. Clinical visits eligible for ethnographic observation are limited to initial visits (medical history and physical examination) and/or return of results visits happening in the context of their first visit to the NIH Clinical Center for the FACSS protocol and/or annual return visits. To be eligible, the following requirements must be met:
- Ability for the participant to speak, read, and/or write in English to understand and agree to a verbal consent.
- Participants must have a diagnosis of FA.
- Participants must be 18 years of age or older.
Exclusion criteria
- Individuals who do not meet eligibility criteria.
- Subjects who declined or opted out of allowing their data to be used for future research.
- Subjects who orally declined to have Dr. Emily Pearce shadow their clinical center visits.
- No other exclusionary criteria apply.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
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 Jul 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations