Plain-English translation of NCT05867706 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This research study is looking at how grief affects the body and mind after losing a spouse to terminal cancer. Researchers want to understand why some people experience more intense and prolonged grief than others, and how stress during caregiving and bereavement can affect inflammation, immune function, and overall health. By collecting blood samples and information about your wellbeing over time, the study aims to identify which people may need extra support during this difficult period.
When someone loses a spouse, especially after a long illness, grief can trigger real physical changes in the body — including increased inflammation and weakened immunity — that put people at risk for serious health problems. Currently, doctors don't have good ways to predict who will struggle most with grief or how to help them early. This study exists to understand those patterns so better support can be offered to grieving people in the future.
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Researchers will follow you over time, starting while your spouse is still receiving care and continuing through the months after their death. During visits, you'll answer questions about how you're coping emotionally and physically, and you'll provide blood samples so researchers can measure inflammation and other biological markers. The study aims to understand the full picture of your experience — your grief, stress, and how your body responds — so researchers can eventually develop better ways to support people going through this loss.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Oct 12, 2026 · Not medical advice
Switzerland
Sponsor
University of Zurich
Collaborators
University of Salzburg, University of California
Enrollment target
~150 participants
Started
October 2024
Primary completion
December 2027
Age range
18 Years and older
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in April 2025.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Annina Seiler, PD PhD
University of Zurich
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.