Generously funded by Donors of Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada

Angela Sekely – Princess Margaret Cancer Centre – Toronto, Ont.

Project title: “Development and Evaluation of a Psychoeducation Resource for Cognitive Systems in Adults with Primary Brain Tumours”

Description of project:

Although primary brain tumours vary widely in prognosis, people living with any brain tumour are at increased risk of cognitive deficits. These cognitive deficits can affect their ability to manage daily tasks, maintain social relationships, and continue to work or remain in school. Cognitive assessment and rehabilitation are warranted, but neuropsychological services for neuro-oncology patients are limited in Canada. The purpose of this research is to develop and evaluate a psychoeducational resource for brain tumour patients and their caregivers that provides information about possible effects of brain tumours on cognition, and evidence-based behavioural strategies to mitigate those effects. The goal is to make this resource available across the country to facilitate equitable access to cognitive supportive care strategies.

This project will comprise three phases. In Phase I, the patient education resource will be developed in partnership with individuals with brain tumours, caregivers and neuro-oncology clinic staff. In Phase II, the acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of the patient education resource will be evaluated. In Phase III, the study results will be presented at national and international neuro-oncology meetings, shared with relevant stakeholders such as Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada to be widely distributed, and published in a peer-reviewed oncology journal

What receiving this award means:

We are deeply grateful to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada for their generous support of this research project. This funding plays a vital role in helping us create a meaningful tool to empower individuals with brain tumours with knowledge and strategies to address cognitive challenges as they navigate their diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. With this support, we can continue to make meaningful strides in addressing the cognitive symptoms faced by individuals with brain tumours and their families and reduce the impact of cognitive deficits on daily life.