UCI IRB HS #3094
Project Background: The Stress & Coping in Asian Americans with Advanced/Metastatic Cancer Study is one of Dr. Kim’s new research studies at UCI.
Project Aims: The aim of this pilot study is to understand the stressors that Chinese-, Filipino-, Japanese-, Korean-, and Vietnamese- heritage patients managing their advanced/metastatic cancer may experience and if it is related to their quality of life, symptoms, coping, sleep, and well-being. We will also examine if these experiences are related to inflammation and antiviral responses in the body, which are important for cancer patients’ health. We hope to enhance the understanding of stressors in the Asian American population and use our findings to improve the overall well-being and care for other individuals who are facing advanced/metastatic cancer.
Study Design: The whole study will take approximately 2 hours to complete. Participants submit a signed doctor-patient form to confirm their advanced/metastatic cancer diagnosis information and then complete 3 survey assessments over a span of 3 months. During the 2nd survey assessment, participants will be asked to provide small, dried blood spot samples to help us know how inflammation and antiviral response in the body are related to management of stressful experiences. This research will not affect the participant’s health care in any way as it is not a treatment study and not part of medical treatment. Participants who are eligible and decide to complete the study will be compensated with $145 in gift cards.
Project Funding: This study is funded by grant awards from UCI School of Medicine and the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center (CFCCC).
This study is actively enrolling participants. If you or someone you know may be interested in participating, please see below for more information and reach out to us with any questions.
Patient Community Advisors
* in alphabetical order by last name
Phuong Gallagher is a 16-year stage IV rectal cancer survivor. As a research advocate, she believes that research can be dramatically improved by incorporating the perspectives and needs of cancer patients. Her strong commitment to patient rights and safety has led her to advocate for robust ethical standards, informed consent processes, and rigorous monitoring of research protocols. As an Asian American, Phuong believes that representation matters, and she works to make sure that DEI is an important part of clinical trials both for access and results. Phuong currently manages the Research Advocacy Training & Support (RATS) program at Fight Colorectal Cancer in addition to her work as a Speaker, Consultant, and Advocate.
Allison Ko, living with metastatic breast cancer since 2019
Community Collaborators
Erin Lin, DO
Associate Clinical Professor
Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, UC Irvine Health
Lisa X. Lee, MD
Assistant Clinical Professor
Division of Hematology/Oncology, Medicine School of Medicine
Fa-Chyi Lee, MD
Clinical Professor
Division of Hematology/Oncology, Medicine School of Medicine
