Evaluation of a Text Message-Based Approach to Depression Screening Among Cancer Survivors

This pilot randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a text message-based depression screening approach for cancer survivors. A total of 60 adult cancer survivors will be enrolled and randomly assigned to either the text message intervention or the usual care depression screening. The intervention involves sending text messages one week before scheduled oncology appointments, inviting participants to complete a depression screening using the PHQ-2, followed by the PHQ-9 for those who screen positive.

The study will assess the feasibility of implementing text message-based screenings, participant acceptability, and compare the efficacy of this method to traditional in-person depression screenings during clinical visits. The primary outcome is feasibility, measured by the proportion of participants completing the screening via text, while secondary outcomes will include acceptability (assessed through participant surveys) and preliminary efficacy (measured by screening completion rates and depression detection).

Eligible participants will be English-speaking cancer survivors aged 18 or older with an upcoming oncology appointment at the Hollings Cancer Center or associated clinics. The study aims to improve current depression screening methods and address challenges such as logistical and system-level barriers in screening cancer survivors for depression.