RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Feasibility of a Cognitive Stepped Care Program for Adults With Brain Metastases

Many people with brain metastases find it hard to think clearly, remember things, or concentrate. These problems can make daily life difficult and affect how they manage their cancer care. This study is testing a new program called the Cognitive Stepped Care Program (CSCP) to see if it's a helpful way to support patients in a brain metastases clinic. Researchers want to find out if the program is practical to put into practice, if patients find it useful, and if it helps with their thinking skills and overall well-being. It involves different levels of support, from information sheets to more personalised help, based on each person's needs.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University Health Network, Toronto

Enrolment target

140

Start

09 Jan 2026

Estimated completion

01 Jun 2026

Brain Metastases Brain Metastasis

What is this study about?

This study is looking into a new way to help adults living with brain metastases who are experiencing problems with their thinking, memory, and concentration. These kinds of issues, often called cognitive symptoms, can be very common and can make a big difference to someone's daily life and their ability to cope with their cancer treatment and appointments. Right now, there isn't a standard way for clinics to check for and help with these symptoms regularly.

The main goal of this study is to see if a programme called the Cognitive Stepped Care Program (CSCP) can be successfully used in a brain metastases clinic. They want to find out if it's practical to deliver, if patients find it acceptable and helpful, and if it makes any early improvements to their thinking skills and how they feel about their quality of life. The programme works by first checking how severe someone's cognitive symptoms are. Depending on their needs, people will receive different levels of support, which could range from helpful information and advice, to more involved computer-based exercises and one-to-one discussions, or even group training sessions.

This research is really important because if the CSCP works well, it could become a regular part of care for people with brain metastases. It might also provide a model for how to help people with similar thinking problems in other cancer clinics. The study will involve patients, their family carers, and the clinic staff to get a full picture of how well the programme works and how it can be improved.

Key takeaways

This study explores a new support programme for thinking problems in people with brain metastases.
It aims to make thinking support a regular part of cancer care.
The programme offers different levels of help, tailored to individual needs.
Participation involves assessments, support sessions, and feedback through questionnaires.
It could improve daily life and well-being for those affected.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be an adult (18 years or older) who has been diagnosed with brain metastases from any type of cancer. You should also be receiving ongoing care at the Brain Metastases Clinic and be able to speak, read, and write in English. You must also be able to understand and sign a consent form, which shows you agree to take part.

You would not be able to join if you have a significant learning difficulty, a severe mental health condition, or a brain injury from something other than your cancer. Also, people who are very unwell, meaning they need a lot of help with daily tasks, or who are expected to live less than three months, would not be able to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have brain metastases from any primary cancer?
Are you getting care at a Brain Metastases Clinic?
Can you speak, read, and write in English?
Do you feel well enough to take part?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you will first have a simple check-up to see how your memory, thinking, and concentration are doing. Based on these results, you'll receive different levels of support. This might involve getting educational materials with tips and advice, or you might be asked to do some computer-based thinking exercises followed by a chat with a specialist. Some people might also join group training sessions or have a consultation with a brain specialist if needed. You'll fill out some questionnaires about your symptoms and how you feel about your quality of life both before you start the support and again afterwards. Your primary caregiver and some clinic staff will also be asked for their thoughts through questionnaires and interviews. The total time you'd be involved isn't specified, but it would involve these check-ups, interventions, and follow-up questionnaires.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may offer some potential benefits, such as receiving structured support and strategies to help manage cognitive symptoms, which could improve your quality of life. It also helps researchers understand how to better support others in the future. The risks are likely to be low, but could include the time commitment involved or potentially feeling frustrated during cognitive assessments. You will be fully informed and can withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network
Verified postcode
Toronto, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What are cognitive symptoms?

Cognitive symptoms are issues with thinking, memory, concentration, and how quickly you process information. They can make everyday tasks challenging.

What is a 'stepped care' program?

A 'stepped care' program means you get different levels of support depending on how much you need. It starts with simple help and can go up to more intensive support if required.

Is this a new medicine?

No, this study is not testing a new medicine. It's looking at a programme that offers different types of support and strategies to help with thinking problems.

Will my regular cancer treatment be affected?

No, your participation in this study will not affect your regular cancer treatment or care. You will continue to receive your usual medical care.

Who do I contact if I have more questions?

You should speak to your doctor or the research team involved in the study. They can provide more detailed information and answer any specific questions you have.

How to find out more

Samantha Mayo, RN, PhD

samantha.mayo@uhn.ca 1-437-218-0860 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.