New program aims to ease tough End-of-Life talks for cancer patients

NCT ID NCT07428278

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Illinois at Chicago Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a program called ROCKS that helps people with advanced cancer and their family caregivers build optimism, communication skills, and knowledge to discuss advance care planning. 152 patient-caregiver pairs will be randomly assigned to the ROCKS program or usual care (a standard advance directive form). The goal is to see if the program increases completion of advance directives and improves emotional well-being.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: ROCKS resilience-building program
What this could lead to: If it works, this could provide a simple way to help patients and families have difficult conversations about future care, reducing anxiety and improving quality of life.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial testing feasibility and preliminary effects. The program may not significantly improve advance care planning or emotional outcomes.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cancer Death

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ADVANCED CANCER END OF LIFE

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Illinois Chicago
RECRUITING

Chicago, Illinois, 60607, United States

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