Impact of Cooling Mats on Vasomotor Symptoms in Patients Receiving Endocrine Therapy

COOLVAS: Exploring the Feasibility and Impact of Cooling Mats on Vasomotor Symptoms in Patients Receiving Endocrine Treatment: A Pilot Study

This research study will investigate whether using a non-drug option, like a cooling mat, made of temperature-regulating materials, can help relieve the discomfort of hot flushes and/or night sweats for people receiving hormone treatment following a cancer diagnosis.

Cooling mats are made from specialised material designed to keep body temperature in a comfortable range by reducing heat. Previous research has shown these materials can be helpful for managing hot flushes during menopause, and the investigators are investigating if the same benefits apply to cancer patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

Age ≥ 18 years at time of consent

Histologically confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer or prostate cancer

Currently receiving endocrine therapy (e.g., tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors, ovarian suppression therapy, androgen deprivation therapy)

Self-reported vasomotor symptoms (e.g., hot flushes and/or night sweats) occurring at least once daily during the 2 weeks prior to screening

Ability to understand the study procedures and provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

Prior use of cooling mat devices specifically for management of vasomotor symptoms within the past 3 months

Known hypersensitivity or allergy to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or any component of the cooling mat device

Cognitive impairment, psychiatric condition, or other medical condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, would interfere with adherence to study procedures

Concurrent participation in another interventional clinical trial for management of vasomotor symptoms