NCT06807086 · Massachusetts General Hospital
Efficacy of Synchronous, Virtual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia Across Phases of Cancer Survivorship
What this study is about
This project is a single center, forward-looking randomly assigned controlled trial (N=198) primarily evaluating the effectiveness of the Survivorship Sleep Program vs. Enhanced Usual Care on insomnia severity among cancer survivors. The investigators will also examine secondary outcomes associated with cancer-related insomnia including subjective and objective sleep measures (i.e.
View original scientific description
This project is a single center, prospective randomized controlled trial (N=198) primarily evaluating the efficacy of the Survivorship Sleep Program vs. Enhanced Usual Care on insomnia severity among cancer survivors. The investigators will also examine secondary outcomes associated with cancer-related insomnia including subjective and objective sleep measures (i.e., sleep diaries, actigraphy), emotional distress, fatigue, and use of sleep medications. Notably, most CBT-I trials with cancer survivors who have completed primary treatment with curative intent (i.e., curvivors) but not those in treatment or living with metastatic cancer (i.e., metavivors). To enhance generalizability, this RCT will stratify enrollment by survivorship phase (1:1:1). This project in strengthened by partnerships with community organizations (SurvivorJourneys and Ellie Fund) and use of both quantitative (i.e., surveys, actigraphy) and qualitative methods (i.e., interviews) to inform considerations for future implementation. Collectively, the proposed project will yield multiple deliverables to innovate cancer survivorship care, namely an efficacious, virtually delivered intervention addressing chronic insomnia, one of the most deleterious concerns among the growing population of cancer survivors in the US. Findings will inform a future effectiveness trial and the expansion of the synchronous delivery of CBT-I to survivors across different phases of cancer survivorship.
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
- Cancer survivor, defined as:
- (A) history of nonmetastatic, localized or regional, solid or blood malignancy(ies) and completion of primary cancer treatment (i.e., radiation, surgery, and/or chemotherapy). Use of hormonal, maintenance, oral, and immunotherapies is permitted; or
- (B) history of nonmetastatic, localized or regional, solid or blood malignancy(ies) and current primary cancer treatment (i.e., radiation, surgery, and/or chemotherapy); Use of hormonal, maintenance, oral, and immunotherapies is permitted; or
- (C) history of metastatic sold or blood malignancy (ies) taking hormonal, maintenance, oral, or immunotherapies to prevent further disease progression.
- Chronic insomnia (DSM-5 criteria)
- Age 18 years or older
Exclusion criteria
- Self-reported inability to speak and write in English
- Undertreated non-insomnia sleep disorder (e.g., sleep apnea)
- Undertreated epilepsy, undertreated serious mental illness, undertreated suicidality, and/or psychiatric hospitalization in the past year
- Unwilling or unable to discontinue night shift work
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Mar 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations