Educational curriculum seeks to improve quality of life for cancer patients and caregivers

January 20, 2021

A study being conducted by University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center researcher, Kevin Cassel, DrPH, examines whether providing an educational curriculum will increase the ability of caregivers to be active participants of the therapeutic team for cancer patients. The study, sponsored by the Alliance for Cancer Clinical Trials through a pilot grant award, seeks to improve the quality of life for patients and their caregivers.

Cassel is using various forms of digital media to deliver cancer information to caregivers and patients using preloaded computer tablets. Participants will have access to educational videos and other resources that have been selected for use by researchers and clinicians. Following the sessions, participants will be able to provide feedback about their experience using these resources.

The study’s use of preloaded tablets supports the delivery of cancer information despite in person limitations due to COVID-19 restrictions. If the project’s use of tablets is successful, this type of delivery may be applied to other digital platforms, including cellphones and the Internet.

The study focuses on colon cancer, which is the third most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in the state of Hawaiʻi, with an average of 717 new cases diagnosed each year. Colon and rectum cancers are also the second leading cause of cancer death in Hawaiʻi’s men and the third among women. Researchers hope that the study will have a significant and positive impact on colon cancer patients and their caregivers throughout the state.

For more information on the study, call Kevin Cassel, principal investigator, at (808)564-5916.