PRecision Oncology Evidence Development in Cancer Treatment - Clinical: PREDiCTc
This study is called PREDiCTc. It's for people in the UK with rare cancers or cancers with very unusual changes in their genes. We're looking at treatments that have been approved in Canada but might not be widely available here yet. Because these cancers are rare, it's hard to do big studies, so we're collecting information from people receiving these treatments in their daily lives. We want to understand how these treatments affect your quality of life and how long people live. This information will help health authorities decide if these newer therapies should be funded and made more accessible to patients in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine you have a very rare type of cancer, or your cancer has a unique genetic change that only a few people have. Scientists are constantly discovering new treatments, often called 'targeted therapies,' that are designed to work specifically against these rare cancer types or changes. However, because these cancers are so uncommon, it's very difficult to conduct large medical trials to prove how well these new drugs work for everyone.
This study, called PREDiCTc, aims to bridge that gap. We're looking at treatments that have shown promise and are already approved for use in other countries like Canada, but might not yet be widely funded or available in the UK. We want to gather 'real-world evidence' – information from people like you, who are already receiving these treatments as part of their standard care. We'll be looking at things like your quality of life while on the treatment and how long the treatment helps you.
The information we collect will be incredibly valuable. It will help healthcare decision-makers and policymakers understand the true benefits of these specific treatments for rare cancers. Ultimately, this evidence could help make these important therapies more accessible to patients in the future, ensuring that everyone has the best chance at effective treatment, regardless of how rare their cancer might be.
Key takeaways
- This study collects real-world information on new cancer treatments.
- It focuses on rare cancers or unusual genetic cancer changes.
- The goal is to help decision-makers fund more treatments in the future.
- Participation involves sharing information on your existing treatment, QOL, and scans.
- You won't receive extra medication or change your current treatment.
- Your contribution helps future patients with similar conditions.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you must be at least 18 years old. You need to have a cancer that can't be cured but is being treated with a specific type of drug that targets rare cancers or unusual genetic changes in your cancer. This drug must be approved by Health Canada, but not yet funded across the UK.
You should generally be in good health for someone undergoing cancer treatment, meaning you can mostly look after yourself. We also need to be confident you'll live for at least another 12 weeks. You'll need to be able to talk about your well-being and fill out questionnaires.
However, you can't join if you're taking part in another clinical trial or have recently started another experimental treatment within the last two weeks. Also, if your doctor thinks you're not well enough to take part or if you can't complete quality of life questionnaires, this study wouldn't be suitable for you.
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 18 years old or older?
- Do you have a rare cancer or a cancer with a very specific genetic change?
- Are you currently receiving a targeted cancer therapy that isn't widely funded yet?
- Are you generally able to care for yourself and have a life expectancy of at least 12 weeks?
- Are you able to fill out questionnaires about your well-being?
- Are you not currently in another clinical trial for treatment?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll continue with your usual cancer treatment. We are mainly gathering information about how you're doing. This involves having regular scans (like CT scans) to check on your cancer, just as you normally would. You will also be asked to fill out questionnaires about your quality of life. These questionnaires help us understand how your treatment is affecting your daily life and how you feel. The study will continue for as long as you are receiving the particular targeted therapy. There are no extra medications provided as part of the study; it's about observing your current treatment.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- BC CancerVerified postcodeVancouver, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a 'rare molecular aberration'?
It means your cancer has a very unusual change in its genetic makeup that only a small number of people have.
Will I get a new treatment if I join this study?
No, this study is for people already receiving a specific approved targeted therapy for their cancer. It doesn't provide new treatment.
What does 'quality of life' mean in this study?
It refers to how you feel physically, emotionally, and socially, and how your treatment affects your day-to-day living.
Who will see the information I provide?
Your information will be kept confidential. Researchers will use anonymous data to understand the overall trends.
What happens if I change my mind about participating?
You can withdraw from the study at any time without having to give a reason, and it won't affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Samantha Pollard, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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