Conquering Fear Online: Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial of an Internet-based Self-management Intervention for Subclinical Fear of Cancer Recurrence

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating an internet-based self-management program called eConquerFear-HK designed to reduce fear of cancer recurrence in local Chinese cancer survivors who have subclinical levels of fear. This pilot randomized controlled trial aims to test the feasibility, usefulness, and potential effects of this program compared to an active control group receiving general lifestyle guidance. The study focuses on survivors of colorectal or breast cancer who have completed primary surgery and hospital-based adjuvant treatments recently. Participants in the eConquerFear-HK group will access six online modules covering topics such as worry control, attention training, mindfulness, values-based goal setting, and relapse prevention. These modules include educational text, graphics, exercises, and videos. The comparison group will watch six videos offering general advice on relaxation, diet, and physical activity to support long-term health. Both interventions are delivered entirely online. During the study, researchers will monitor recruitment and retention rates, adherence to the interventions, and participant satisfaction. They will also assess changes in fear of cancer recurrence, psychological distress, quality of life, and metacognition at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. The total study duration and detailed schedules are based on these timepoints, aiming to understand the usefulness and impact of eConquerFear-HK in managing cancer survivors' fears.

E-intervention on Subclinical Fear of Cancer Recurrence