A randomized controlled trial evaluating a culturally tailored psychosocial intervention for Latina breast cancer survivors and their caregivers has demonstrated promising engagement rates and clinical benefits, according to results published in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society.
The study, conducted across three major urban centers—Washington D.C., New York City, and San Jose, California—randomized 136 survivor-caregiver pairs to receive either an eight-session group intervention designed to enhance communication and coping skills or usual care through community resources. The intervention was developed in collaboration with Nueva Vida, Inc., a community-based organization with extensive experience serving Latina breast cancer survivors.
High Engagement and Retention Rates
The trial achieved remarkable participation metrics, with 71.4% of intervention pairs attending at least five of the eight sessions. Retention rates remained strong at six months, with 82% of participants continuing in the program. These engagement levels are particularly notable within psychosocial oncology interventions, where dropout rates frequently present challenges.
"Our close collaboration with 4 exceptional community-based organizations for this trial led to our success with recruitment and retention of Latina breast cancer survivors and their caregivers," said senior author Dr. Kristi D. Graves of Georgetown University.
Clinical Outcomes and Statistical Considerations
The intervention demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements in key patient-reported outcomes, specifically reductions in anxiety and fatigue at six months post-intervention compared to the usual care group. These symptoms represent pervasive concerns for breast cancer survivors that can significantly impact quality of life and recovery trajectories.
However, when analyses adjusted for potential confounding variables—including socioeconomic status, baseline health status, and demographic factors—the differences between intervention and control groups did not reach traditional thresholds of statistical significance. This finding illustrates the complex nature of measuring efficacy in community-based interventions, where participant heterogeneity and external influences may affect observable outcomes.
Community Partnership Model
The intervention leveraged group dynamics and communication skill-building exercises, facilitated by trained bilingual staff familiar with the cultural nuances of Latina/o populations. Sessions addressed central themes including emotional expression, mutual support, symptom management strategies, and healthcare system navigation.
The strategic partnership with Nueva Vida ensured that the intervention reflected core values, beliefs, and communication preferences characteristic of Latina/o communities, while maintaining accessible and engaging delivery methods for participants.
Implications for Future Research
Despite the absence of definitive statistical significance, the study provides valuable insights into methodological considerations for future trials targeting minority populations. The research demonstrates the feasibility of implementing culturally competent interventions with strong retention and engagement metrics—a foundational step toward optimizing supportive oncology care.
Dr. Graves emphasized the potential for replication and expansion of this model, envisioning future studies that adapt the core framework to other ethnic groups and cancer types. The study was funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, underscoring the strategic priority to align research with patient values and real-world outcomes.
Advancing Health Equity in Cancer Care
By centering the experiences of Latina breast cancer survivors and their caregivers—who encounter unique social, linguistic, and cultural challenges—this investigation advances health equity and enriches the evidence base for culturally targeted interventions in oncology. The intervention acknowledges the dyadic nature of coping and recovery by involving both survivors and caregivers, fostering shared resilience in facing cancer's challenges.
The research team encourages the academic and clinical communities to build upon this foundation through innovative trial designs, multi-site collaborations, and incorporation of digital technologies that may extend reach and scalability while maintaining cultural congruence and accessibility.
