SEATTLE, April 12 /PRNewswire/ --
WHAT: The Health SMART Study -- A study conducted by researchers at
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center to see how stress-
reduction workshops can help women with a family history of
breast cancer manage their everyday stresses and cancer-risk
concerns. The overall goal of the study, funded by the National
Cancer Institute, is to see whether various stress-management
and coping techniques improve immune function. This is important
because research has shown that high levels of stress can make
the immune system less responsive to vaccines and more
vulnerable to infection.
Specifically, the study will teach women scientifically proven
stress-management techniques (such as mindfulness meditation and
guided imagery), coping strategies (such as anger management and
assertiveness training) and information on health behaviors that
can lower breast-cancer risk. All workshops are conducted in a
supportive group setting with other women who have a family
history of breast cancer. There is no charge to participate.
All participants will receive a set of CDs with relaxation
exercises, a tote bag and a workbook filled with stress-
management techniques taught in the classes.
WHO: The study aims to recruit 226 Seattle-area women, age 18 to 60,
who are willing to participate in 10 two-hour workshops.
Participants also will be asked to complete a set of
questionnaires, give blood and saliva samples, and receive two
Hepatitis A vaccinations.
WHERE: All study activities will take place on the Hutchinson Center
campus in the Prevention Center, which is located in the Robert
Arnold Building, 1212 Aloha St, Seattle.
CONTACT: For more information about the Health SMART Study, please call
the study information line at (206) 667-7267 or e-mail
healthsmart@fhcrc.org.
SOURCE Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
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Related links:
http://www.fhcrc.org/
CONTACT:
Kristen Woodward of Fred Hutchinson Cancer
Research Center, +1-206-667-5095, or kwoodwar@fhcrc.org
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