CHESS Lung Cancer Study

The Center for Health Enhancement Systems Studies at the University of Wisconsin - Madison (the Center) is a dynamic research organization directed by Dr. David Gustafson. Focused on improving health and quality of life, the Center uses technology to help people cope with serious illnesses such as cancer, asthma and addiction.

Currently the Center is offering a National Cancer Institute funded research study to people who are facing non small cell lung cancer. This study examines whether using a website called "CHESS" impacts the quality of life and survival of people with non small cell lung cancer.

What is CHESS?

An Internet-based support and information system
Contains doctor approved and scholarly reviewed articles and web links
Provides a secure place to discuss and find health information

What do participants do if they enroll in the study?

Participants are randomly assigned to get either access to the CHESS website or a list of recommended websites
Participants answer a total of 9 surveys over the course of the study, which are sent in the mail.
Participants can be reimbursed for some or all of their Internet changes and receive a small payment for completing surveys.

Will participation in the study cost me anything?

There is no cost to participate in this study, other than your time

How could this study benefit me?

CHESS has been found to increase quality of life in patients who use it.
CHESS can provide condensed information specific to your condition and the treatment
Your study participation could help other people diagnosed with lung cancer and their families in the future.

All patients will be invited to have a caregiver also participate in the study, however this is not required. To be eligible for this study all patients must be:

Diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (Stage IIIA non surgical, IIIB or IV)
Within 12 months of their primary lung cancer diagnosis of metastatic disease or recurrence.
At least 18 years of age
If patients have brain metastases, they must be stable.

Please call 1-800-361-5481 or email chstudy@cae.wisc.edu to learn more about this study.