The ASSIST Study is a pilot study at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital designed to explore whether a brief, evidence-based approach to substance use screening and counseling can be integrated into routine survivorship care for adult survivors of childhood cancer. During a regular visit in the After Completion of Therapy (ACT) Clinic, participants will complete the World Health Organization's ASSIST questionnaire, which identifies potential risks related to alcohol, tobacco, and other substance use. Survivors who show moderate or high risk and are assigned to the intervention group receive a brief counseling session that uses motivational interviewing techniques to support healthy decision making.
This study will enroll 30 adult survivors to evaluate whether this screening and intervention approach is practical, acceptable, and delivered as intended within a busy clinic setting. Participants will also complete a follow up survey three months later to report whether they reduced their substance use. Results from this pilot will help determine whether a larger study should be conducted and may guide future efforts to enhance long term health outcomes for childhood cancer survivors.
