Cognitive Intervention After a Brain Tumour

Official Title

Cognitive Intervention After a Brain Tumour

Summary:

This study evaluates the feasibility and utility of two behavioural programs designed to reduce cognitive impairments secondary to brain tumours and/or their treatment. One-third of participants will complete training in either program, with the remaining third a wait-list control group.

Trial Description

Primary Outcome:

• Change in cognitive composite score

Secondary Outcome:

• Change in functional composite score
• Change in quality of life composite score
• Change in caregiver quality of life composite score

Cognitive impairments (including problems with attention, memory or executive functions) are common in people with brain tumours, as a result of the disease and/or treatment effects. These deficits, even when relatively mild, can interfere with interpersonal relationships, occupational activities, functional independence, and quality of life. They may also contribute to caregiver burden. Building on research in other cognitively-impaired populations, in this study we compare two behavioural interventions. The Brain Training (BT) and Brain Health (BH) interventions each offer a structured yet client-centreed program through 8 weekly individual treatment sessions and between-session exercises. Contents include mindfulness practice, strategy training, and supportive psychoeducation including counseling around lifestyle factors to promote brain functioning. Using a prospective randomized controlled design, 54 brain tumour patients are being enrolled in one of three study arms: BT, BH, or standard care (wait-list control). A battery of outcome measures is being administered (1) prior to intervention, (2) after the 8-week behavioural intervention (or wait-list) period, and (3) after an additional 4 months to evaluate longer-term outcomes. Analyses of variance will examine treatment effects, with regression analyses to explore moderating effects of participant demographics, severity of baseline cognitive impairment, and tumour and treatment factors (e.g., tumour location, radiation dose and distribution). Results of this trial will lay the groundwork for implementation of evidence-based supportive care to reduce and manage cognitive impairments following a brain tumour.

View this trial on ClinicalTrials.gov