Brief, Family-Centered, Videoconference-Based Behavioral Insomnia Program in Elementary School-Aged Pediatric Cancer Survivors: A Proof-of-Concept Study.

Abstract

Pediatric cancer survivors are at heightened risk for insomnia. Though behavioral interventions are the recommended approach, there are not enough trained clinicians. No known published trials have been conducted among school-aged survivors, despite them having unique age-related sleep issues. Here, we tested a videoconference-based behavioral insomnia intervention program enrolling 15 caregivers of cancer survivors (5-12 years) with insomnia. Staff without prior sleep education/training delivered intervention sessions providing evidence-based strategies tailored to family needs. Self-report measures were collected before intervention and approximately 2 weeks post intervention. Caregivers reported significant sleep and quality-of-life improvements. Thus, we show preliminary support for a brief intervention that does not require significant resources or clinical expertise.