Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center Receives $2.7 Million Grant for Breast Cancer Survivorship Research

Researchers at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, have been awarded a $2.7 million grant to explore the effects of a structured stress management program on breast cancer survivors. The study aims to improve long-term health outcomes and mitigate cancer-associated aging through a telehealth cognitive behavioral stress management program known as SMART-PATHS.

The SMART-PATHS study will track biological markers of stress, inflammation, immune function, and aging in participants over a two-year period. The multidisciplinary research team, led by principal investigator Michael Antoni, Ph.D., director of health psychology, will collaborate with Frank Penedo, Ph.D., and breast cancer oncologist Carmen Calfa, M.D., among others.

According to Dr. Calfa, this initiative is the first to evaluate the impact of a telehealth cognitive behavioral stress management intervention on cancer-associated aging and overall health in breast cancer survivors. "Sylvester is committed not only to improving treatment outcomes but also to reducing the adverse effects of cancer treatment," she said.

Dr. Antoni, who has studied stress effects in individuals with chronic illnesses for nearly three decades, noted that emotional distress following cancer treatment, such as fears about recurrence, can negatively influence health outcomes. This ongoing stress may drive cellular aging and exacerbate health issues in survivors.

The cognitive behavioral stress management program, developed by Dr. Antoni and his team, combines cognitive behavioral therapy with relaxation strategies. It was pilot-tested using a telehealth model, allowing participants to partake in live group sessions and access additional educational resources, which significantly reduced barriers to participation compared to traditional in-person sessions.

Results from the pilot indicated that participants who completed the program reported reduced psychological distress and improved immune function. Dr. Antoni highlighted that those with the greatest skill improvement in stress management experienced the most significant slowing of cellular aging.

The new study aims to enroll 192 postmenopausal breast cancer survivors experiencing elevated distress levels as they transition from treatment to survivorship. Dr. Penedo emphasized that this demographic is particularly vulnerable to stress-related symptoms and aging-related health issues.

Participants will engage in the virtual CBSM program while researchers monitor various health indicators, including stress levels, inflammation, and endocrine function. Additionally, a digital wearable tracker will help assess sleep, physical activity, and heart rate variability.

Dr. Daniela Frasca from the Miller School will partner with Dr. Antoni to investigate how stress impacts inflammation and immune function in breast cancer survivors, aiming to improve their quality of life through immune-mediated mechanisms.