Online Group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to Reduce Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Women with BRCA12 Mutations Tailored for Women Post Breast or Ovarian Cancer Treatment

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate an adapted cognitive-behavioral group therapy CBT designed specifically for women who carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations and have a history of breast or ovarian cancer. These women often experience high and persistent fear of cancer recurrence FCR, which can cause anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The study will compare the effects of this tailored CBT program against a waitlist control to see if it reduces FCR and improves related symptoms over time. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an immediate intervention group or a waitlist group. The immediate group will participate in seven weekly 90-minute group CBT sessions conducted online via videoconference by trained psychologists. The waitlist group will complete questionnaires for seven weeks before receiving the same CBT intervention. The therapy is adapted to address the unique needs of BRCA12 mutation carriers, including concerns about cancer recurrence and life decisions impacted by their genetic risk. During the study, women will complete questionnaires before the intervention, immediately after, and at three and six months post-intervention. These questionnaires assess fear of cancer recurrence, anxiety, depression, insomnia, fatigue, quality of life, and other psychological factors. Researchers will monitor satisfaction with the therapy and changes in these measures over time. The total participation includes the therapy period and follow-up assessments, with ongoing evaluation of how the adapted CBT affects fear and related symptoms.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Women With BRCA1/2 Gene