STRONG Study
STUDY BASICS
Have you recently been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer or Stage 3 or 4 gynecological cancer? If so, you may be eligible to join a research study to discover new ways to self-advocate for a better quality of life through your cancer journey. Compensation is provided.
STUDY PURPOSE
The purpose of this study is to evaluate a program to teach self-advocacy skills to women with advanced cancer. Self-Advocacy skills help you stand up for your needs, values, and priorities during cancer.
COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?
- 18 years of age or older
- Female
- Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer or Stage 3 or 4 gynecologic cancer in past 3 months
WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT
If you choose to participate, you’ll be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
- Group 1 receives a tablet with the program and is asked to use it about once a week for three months.
- Group 2 receives a paper self-advocacy guide and is asked to use it about once a week for three months. If you are assigned to group 2, you also have the option to receive the tablet program after study completion if you so wish.
For both groups, we will ask you to complete questionnaires and sometimes brief interviews:
- When you start the study
- 3 months after you start
- 6 months after you start
IRB: STUDY21020095
- Efficacy of a self-advocacy serious game intervention for women with advanced cancerMEET THE RESEARCHER

Teresa Thomas
Teresa Hagan Thomas, PhD, BA, RN, is an Assistant Professor of Health Promotion & Development at the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame and the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Thomas’ research interests include cancer symptom management, instrument development and testing, and financial distress related to chronic health problems.