Attention Bias Modification for Anxiety in Childhood Cancer Survivors

This trial tests a treatment called Attention Bias Modification (ABM) to reduce anxiety in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Anxiety commonly affects these survivors and can lead to depression and sleep issues. ABM involves short, self-guided smartphone tasks to alter reactions to stressors and includes activities to enhance positive emotions. Participants will use either the ABM app or a similar task for four weeks. The trial seeks cancer survivors aged 15-29 who have completed treatment and have smartphone access. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance mental health support for cancer survivors.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that Attention Bias Modification (ABM) safely helps manage anxiety. In past studies, participants, including children and teens, handled ABM well, with no major reports of harmful side effects. This treatment uses a smartphone app to change reactions to anxiety-inducing stimuli. Participants complete tasks that encourage focus on neutral or positive things instead of negative ones. This method has lowered anxiety symptoms without causing discomfort or adverse effects. Overall, ABM appears to be a safe choice for managing anxiety, even for teens and young adults who have survived cancer.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about Attention Bias Modification (ABM) for anxiety in childhood cancer survivors because it offers a novel approach compared to traditional therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication. ABM specifically targets the way attention is directed, helping patients shift focus away from anxiety-triggering stimuli. Unlike conventional methods that often require longer duration to see results, ABM sessions are brief and supplemented by engaging daily text prompts, potentially leading to quicker and more sustainable improvements in managing anxiety. The use of technology in the form of text messaging also makes this method accessible and easy to integrate into daily life, offering a modern twist to anxiety management.

Research has shown that Attention Bias Modification (ABM), which participants in this trial may receive, can help reduce anxiety symptoms. Studies have found that children who participated in ABM often experienced a significant reduction in anxiety, with many no longer having an anxiety disorder. ABM helps individuals change their automatic reactions to stress by shifting focus away from threats and towards more neutral or positive thoughts. Using smartphone apps, ABM includes activities like identifying things to be grateful for, which can increase positive feelings. This method aims to improve anxiety symptoms in adolescents and young adults who have survived cancer.¹²⁶⁷⁸