TRAIN4CHIMIO

Feasibility of EMDR (train protocol) and its impact on post-traumatic stress symptoms in patients undergoing chemotherapy for non-metastatic breast cancer: a pilot study

The primary objective of the “Train4Chimio” study is to evaluate the feasibility of the EMDR-derived “Train protocol” on trauma in patients treated with chemotherapy for non-metastatic breast cancer, as well as the impact of this intervention on their well-being and emotional regulation. A specific Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy technique, known as the “Train Protocol”, will be used to help participants process the emotional impact of their cancer diagnosis and treatment. The study will assess whether this tailored psychological intervention can reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance quality of life throughout the cancer care journey. The findings will help determine whether this approach is feasible and beneficial for people undergoing chemotherapy.

About the study

No longer recruiting

Patients 18+ years

Oncological diseases, Mental Health

Locations

Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg – CHL Centre 4 rue Barblé
L-1210 Luxembourg

Contact

+ 352 44 11 3242

Who can participate?

Eligible participants

Minimum age 18 years
Current breast cancer diagnosis
Cancer stage: non-metastatic
Knows he/she has cancer
Undergoing treatment with curative-intent chemotherapy

Exclusion criteria

Suspected or confirmed psychiatric disorder in the acute phase
Major cognitive impairment
Consumption of more than 4 units of alcohol per day
Drug use
Insufficient knowledge of the French language

Not sure about eligibility?

The study team will review each case individually to determine eligibility. If you are unsure whether you are eligible, do not hesitate to contact us.

What will participants do?

01.

Attend a baseline visit

This will take place before starting chemotherapy. During this visit, the patients sign the informed consent form, answer questions about their health and medical history, and complete questionnaires about emotional well-being and quality of life.

02.

Be randomly assigned to one of two groups

Afterwards, the patients are randomly assigned to one of two groups. They will either receive the EMDR “Train Protocol” alongside with the usual psychological support during chemotherapy, or receive the usual psychological care available at the Breast Clinic without the EMDR intervention.

03.

Complete several questionnaires

These will be completed at four different time points: before the intervention (baseline), after the intervention, as well as after 3 and 6 months following the EMDR intervention (equivalent time point for the control group). Each questionnaire takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.