EMDR Treatment for High Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Adults with Familial Melanoma A Randomized Waiting List Control Study

What this Trial Is About

Fear of cancer recurrence FCR is a common and distressing issue for patients with familial melanoma, significantly affecting their quality of life. This trial investigates whether Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing EMDR, a psychological treatment originally used for PTSD and anxiety, can reduce high FCR in these patients. The study compares EMDR to a waiting-list control group in a randomized, non-blinded design. Participants in the intervention group receive an intake session and up to four 90-minute EMDR therapy sessions over approximately four weeks. Those in the waiting-list group wait for six weeks before being offered the same treatment if FCR persists. Assessments occur at baseline, after treatment, and during follow-up periods to measure changes in FCR and quality of life. Throughout the study, participants complete the Cancer Worry Scale CWS to evaluate levels of FCR and the EORTC questionnaire to assess quality of life. These evaluations take place before treatment, immediately after, and at two weeks and three months post-treatment. The study aims to track changes in fear and life quality over time, with ongoing monitoring and follow-up as part of the trial process.

EMDR for Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Patients with Familial Melanoma: a Waiting List Control Trial