The National Cancer Institute has funded a $2.6 million 4-year study of multifaceted depression care for adult patients with cancer who meet criteria for major depressive disorder or dysthymia.

The randomized clinical trial -- Alleviating Depression Among Patients with Cancer (ADAPt-C) -- will randomize 350 patients to either enhanced usual care or the intervention. The study population includes predominantly Hispanic patients receiving care at the Los Angeles County+USC Medical Center. A cancer depression clinical specialist (MSW), a case manager, and a consulting psychiatrist will provide a structured, evidence-based intervention. Intervention patients will be offered culturally tailored structured psychotherapy and/or supportive medication management based on a stepped care algorithm, systems navigation services, and 6-month follow-up services.

The interdisciplinary study team includes Dr. Kathleen Ell as PI, Dr. Dwight-Johnson, as co-PI, Dr. Brenda Quon, a USC psychiatrist, Dr. David Quinn, a USC medical oncologist, and Drs. Kathleen Sanchez. and Maria Aranda.