Substance Use Screening and Counseling for Childhood Cancer Survivors

This trial aims to determine if a quick, evidence-based method for screening and counseling about substance use, called ASSIST Linked Brief Intervention, can integrate into regular care for childhood cancer survivors. Participants will complete a brief questionnaire about their use of substances like tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis and may receive supportive counseling based on their responses. This study targets adult survivors of childhood cancer who are receiving follow-up care at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and can read and speak English. The goal is to assess whether this approach helps reduce risky substance use and integrates well into routine care. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative care strategies that could enhance long-term health outcomes for childhood cancer survivors.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on screening and counseling for substance use, so you may not need to change your medication routine.

Research has shown that the ASSIST Linked Brief Intervention, which involves checking substance use and providing feedback and counseling, is safe and easy for participants to manage. Studies have found that similar programs are practical and well-received by participants. The counseling employs motivational interviewing, a method that encourages individuals to reflect on their habits and make positive changes without harm. No solid evidence indicates negative effects from this type of program. As this is a "not applicable" phase trial, the focus is on assessing the method's practicality rather than testing its safety, suggesting it poses a low risk.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about this trial because it integrates substance use conversations directly into the care of childhood cancer survivors. Unlike standard care, which might not systematically address substance use, the ASSIST Linked Brief Intervention offers real-time, personalized feedback and counseling during routine check-ups. This approach aims to make support more accessible and tailored to each survivor's needs, potentially improving their long-term health outcomes. By comparing this method with standard screening, researchers hope to discover if adding feedback and brief counseling is more effective and beneficial.

Research has shown that short conversations using motivational interviewing can help reduce risky substance use. These conversations, for instance, can encourage positive changes, such as increased activity and reduced fatigue from cancer. Evidence also indicates that structured communication improves follow-up care for childhood cancer survivors. This trial will compare two approaches: the ASSIST Screening with Feedback and Brief Intervention, which uses reflective conversations to help participants consider their substance use and make healthier choices, and the ASSIST Screening Without Feedback, which serves as a comparison group to evaluate the added benefits of feedback and brief counseling. Although specific data on using this exact method for childhood cancer survivors is limited, the techniques have shown promise in similar situations.¹⁵⁶⁷⁸