A pilot randomized controlled trial of brief cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety in patients with terminal cancer.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Patients with terminal cancer often experience marked anxiety that is associated with poor quality of life. Although cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders, the approach needs to be adapted to address realistic concerns related to having cancer, such as worries about disease progression, disability, and death. In this pilot randomized controlled trial (clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT00706290), we examined the feasibility and potential efficacy of brief CBT to reduce anxiety in patients with terminal cancer.

Methods

We adapted CBT by developing treatment modules targeting skills for relaxation, coping with cancer worries, and activity pacing. Adults with incurable malignancies and elevated anxiety based on the Ha

SUBMITTER: Greer JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3481900 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature