NCT06636721 · Duke University
Lung Cancer and Aging: Improving Well-being for Older Adults With Lung Cancer
(LuCA)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to develop a brief assessment and need-based behavioral intervention for addressing aging-specific concerns in older adults with lung cancer.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to develop a brief assessment and need-based behavioral intervention for addressing aging-specific concerns in older adults with lung cancer. The long-term goals of this research include identifying the unique concerns of these patients, providing patients with behavioral skills to address their symptom management needs, and enhancing patient engagement with healthcare specialties targeting aging-specific concerns. In the first phase of this study, participants (12 patients with lung cancer, 6 caregivers, 12 providers) will be asked to participate in two individual interviews (each 30-45 minutes in length) via teleconference. During the first interview, participants will be asked to provide feedback on the current version of the assessment and behavioral intervention. Participants will be asked to describe strengths and weaknesses of the materials, topics to add or remove, and any other suggested changes. After the research team has made changes to the materials, participants will be invited to complete a second interview to provide feedback on the updated materials. In the second phase of the study, 16 older adults with lung cancer will complete the revised assessment and participate in the behavioral intervention, in order to a) evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the program and b) measure change in depression, anxiety, pain, and dyspnea.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
LuCA Behavioral Intervention
The intervention will integrate aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (identifying and challenging automatic thoughts, engaging in behavioral activation) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (integrating one's values, distancing skills). The intervention will include skills such as problem-solving, communicating with close others and the medical team, and breathing techniques to improve shortness of breath related to lung cancer.
Primary outcome measures
Feasibility as measured by number of recruited participants who enrolled
Time frame: 5 weeks
Study feasibility will be measured by number of recruited participants who enroll.
Feasibility as measured by number of participants who completed all study activities
Time frame: 5 weeks
Feasibility of the study will be measured by number of participants who complete all study activities.
Acceptability as measured by Study Satisfaction Questionnaire
Time frame: 5 weeks
Acceptability of the study will be measured by the Study Satisfaction Questionnaire. This is a 15-item measure using a 5-point Likert scale (from "strongly disagree" to "strongly agree") in which a higher score indicates greater satisfaction.
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
- for Patient Participants:
- Lung cancer diagnosis
- 60 years of age or older
- Receiving active treatment at Duke University Health System
- Able to speak/read English and provide informed consent Inclusion Criteria for Caregiver Participants:
- Caregiver for a patient with lung cancer participating in this study
- Caregiver for other patient with lung cancer
- Able to speak/read English and provide informed consent Inclusion Criteria for Provider Participants:
- Provide care for older adults with lung cancer
- Able to speak/read English and provide informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Visual or hearing impairment, cognitive impairment, or severe mental illness interfering with participation
Where
- Durham, North Carolina
Collaborators
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
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 Dec 9, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations