SHINE (The Sleep Health in Breast Cancer Study - Evaluating the impact on psychological wellbeing and medication adherence)
Who is organising the research/project?
Dr Leanne Fleming, Dr Megan Crawford, Sommer Agnew (University of Strathclyde)
What is the research/project about?
Due to improvements in treatment and early detection, rates of breast cancer survival have increased over the past decade. However, even after successful treatment many people experience issues such as insomnia, depression, anxiety, and fatigue. These may be leftover side effects from primary breast cancer treatment. After primary treatment, many breast cancer survivors are prescribed hormone therapy for up to 10 years. This medication is effective in reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence, but can have strong side effects, making it difficult to continue with for a long time. Supporting people to continue taking this medication would reduce their risk of breast cancer recurrence, and also potentially reduce the burden these side effects can place on their emotional wellbeing.
The aim of our study is to map treatment side effects such as insomnia, depression, and anxiety in breast cancer patients and survivors, to assess wellbeing in this population. We will also investigate the way people take hormone therapy medication, and factors which may make it difficult for them to take their medication. In future we will use this to develop an intervention to support people taking hormone therapy. These findings may also support funding applications for services to support those diagnosed with breast cancer and improve their quality of life.
Who can take part?
You can participate in this study if you:
- are aged 16 years or older
- have ever been diagnosed with breast cancer
- have internet access.
What does taking part involve?
Participation involves an anonymous online survey which takes around 10-15 minutes to complete. The survey includes: demographic questions, questions about breast cancer diagnosis, type of treatment, aspects of physical and mental health, and hormone therapy adherence (where appropriate).
How can you get involved?
If you are interested in participating in this survey, please click here.