Food Preferences and Craniopharyngiomas
This study, called PREFAMHYPO, is investigating why some people with a type of brain tumour called craniopharyngioma experience significant weight gain after surgery. These tumours are located near a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which controls appetite and how your body uses energy. The researchers believe that damage to this area might change a person's food preferences, making them crave more fatty and sugary foods. This could explain why traditional weight loss methods often don't work for them. The study aims to understand these changes better, which could help develop new ways to manage weight gain in these patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is called PREFAMHYPO, and it's looking into a specific type of brain tumour called a craniopharyngioma. These tumours grow near a very important part of the brain called the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is like your body's control centre for things like hunger, feeling full, and how your body burns energy. When a craniopharyngioma affects this area, it can disrupt these natural processes.
Many patients who have surgery for craniopharyngiomas experience significant weight gain afterwards, sometimes called 'hypothalamic obesity.' This weight gain can be very difficult to manage with regular diets and exercise. Researchers think that one reason for this could be changes in what foods people prefer. They wonder if damage to the hypothalamus might cause people to like sugary and fatty foods more, which could contribute to gaining weight.
Currently, we don't fully understand why this weight gain happens and how food preferences might be involved for these particular patients. This study aims to provide the first clear look at whether people with craniopharyngiomas really do have different food preferences. By understanding this better, doctors hope to find new and more effective ways to help patients manage their weight and improve their overall health after treatment.
Key takeaways
- The study investigates why some patients with craniopharyngiomas gain weight.
- It focuses on how these tumours might change food preferences (e.g., liking sugary foods more).
- Participation involves completing questionnaires; no new treatments are given.
- The findings could lead to better ways to manage weight in these patients.
- It's an 'observational' study, meaning researchers are just gathering information.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be an adult between 18 and 74 years old living in France. You must be able to understand and complete questionnaires and have accessible medical records. There's a separate part of the study for people who have had craniopharyngioma surgery at least three months ago, or surgery for another type of pituitary tumour.
There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you've had weight loss surgery, are taking certain weight-loss medications, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have certain long-term illnesses that affect eating habits. Also, if you have diabetes (type 1 or 2), smoke, misuse alcohol or drugs, or have certain psychiatric or eating disorders, you won't be able to participate.
For the control group (people without craniopharyngioma), you cannot have any issues with your hypothalamus or pituitary gland, uncontrolled thyroid problems, or a history of active cancer being treated.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 74 years old?
- Do you live in France?
- Have you had craniopharyngioma surgery at least 3 months ago (if applicable)?
- Are you able to complete questionnaires in French?
- Have you *not* had weight loss surgery or taken GLP-1 weight loss drugs?
- Are you *not* pregnant or breastfeeding, and do you *not* have uncontrolled diabetes or thyroid issues?
What does participation involve?
This is an observational study, which means you won't be given any new treatments or medications. Instead, the researchers will be collecting information about you. If you qualify, you'll be asked to complete some questionnaires. These questionnaires will likely be about your food preferences and possibly other health information. You'll need to agree to complete these at the start of the study. The study doesn't involve any hospital visits, follow-up appointments, or changes to your current medical care. The total duration of your involvement will just be the time it takes to complete the questionnaires.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Department of endocrinology, diabetology and nutrition, Ambroise Paré Hospital - APHPVerified postcodeBoulogne-Billancourt, France
Common questions
What is a craniopharyngioma?
It's a rare, usually non-cancerous brain tumour that grows near the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, which are important for controlling hormones and body functions.
Why is weight gain a problem after craniopharyngioma treatment?
Surgery or treatment can damage the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls appetite and metabolism, leading to significant and often difficult-to-treat weight gain.
Will I be given any new medicine in this study?
No, this is an 'observational' study. You won't receive any new treatments or medications. Researchers are just gathering information.
What will I have to do if I join?
You'll be asked to complete some questionnaires about your food preferences and health. This does not involve any hospital visits.
How long will I be involved in the study?
Your involvement will only take the time it requires to complete the questionnaires. There are no long-term follow-up requirements.
How to find out more
Mirella Hage, MD, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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