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(Indianapolis, IN) - Established in 1997, Oncology Symptom Control Research (OSCR) represents a commitment by Community Cancer Care to promote the quality of life of our patients and their families through symptom management . Under the direction of Dr. Dale Theobald, OSCR provides direct clinical services, conducts quality-of-life research, and educates health professionals in 31 Indiana communities (see locations).  Dr. Dale Theobald and Pam Dickerson comprise the rest of the OSCR staff.  

OSCR is presently conducting research in areas of cancer-related fatigue and pain.  Fatigue associated with cancer and its treatment is the most common symptom experienced by patients.  We are currently examining the impact of epoetin alpha (eligibility requirements) on fatigue associated with chemotherapy-induced anemia.  Eligible patients are randomized to receive epoetin alpha (Procrit) or standard care.  In addition, OSCR is conducting a study to determine barriers to patient communication of fatigue to physicians and nurses.  We are hopeful that these studies will help to enhance the recognition and treatment of fatigue in cancer patients.  OSCR is also conducting a study to assess the presence of co-analgesic properties associated with Remeron (mirtazapine) (eligibility requirements).

We have recently completed two research studies.  The first study aimed to enhance the physician recognition and treatment of depression in cancer patients using a treatment algorithm.  The second study examined the efficacy of olanzapine (Zyprexa) in the treatment of opioid induced nausea.  We will be reporting our data in the near future.

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