Prospective Observational Study of a Precision Medicine Approach in Patients With Advanced Cancer
This study is for people with advanced cancer. It's looking into an approach called 'precision medicine', where doctors test a patient's cancer in detail to understand its unique make-up. The idea is to then choose treatments that are most likely to work specifically for that person's cancer. This study will observe patients who are already receiving this kind of advanced testing at a hospital in Berlin, Germany. Researchers will follow their progress to see how effective this personalised approach is. They also want to learn which changes in cancer cells are most important for guiding treatment, and how new testing methods can help. It's about finding out if tailoring treatments makes a real difference for people with advanced cancer.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is exploring a cutting-edge way of treating advanced cancer, often called 'precision medicine' or 'personalised medicine'. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach, doctors look very closely at the genes and other features of a person's cancer cells. This detailed testing helps them understand what makes that specific cancer grow and possibly what drugs would work best against it. Think of it like finding a key that specifically fits a lock, rather than trying many different keys.
The research is an 'observational study', which means the researchers will be watching and collecting information from people who are already having this advanced genetic testing and treatment planning at Charité University Medicine in Berlin, Germany. They won't be giving new treatments themselves, but rather seeing how patients respond to the tailored treatments their doctors choose based on these detailed tests. The main goal is to understand how well this precision medicine approach works in real life for people with advanced cancer.
Ultimately, this study aims to gather important information that could help doctors in the future make better and more specific treatment decisions for people with advanced cancer. By understanding which specific changes in cancer cells are most important and how different personalised treatments perform, it could lead to more effective care for many patients.
Key takeaways
- This study looks at how well a personalised approach to advanced cancer treatment works.
- It involves observing patients who are already having detailed cancer cell tests.
- The goal is to find better ways to choose treatments for advanced cancer.
- No new treatments are given as part of the study; it observes standard medical care.
- You need to be an adult with advanced cancer and able to give your consent to join.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you would need to be an adult (18 years or older) with advanced cancer. Your cancer should either have already undergone detailed genetic testing, or this testing should be planned for you as part of your care.
It's important that you are well enough to consider starting a new targeted cancer treatment if the tests suggest one. You must also be able to understand what the study involves and be happy to give your written permission to take part.
If you are unable to give your written consent, for example due to a serious illness or other reasons, then you would not be able to join this study.
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 advanced cancer?
- Have you had detailed cancer cell testing, or is it planned for you?
- Are you able to start a targeted treatment if recommended by your doctors?
- Can you understand the study information and give written permission to take part?
What does participation involve?
This is an observational study, which means you wouldn't be given any new or experimental treatments through the study itself. Instead, the researchers would be collecting information about the tests you're already having for your advanced cancer and the treatments your doctors choose for you based on those tests. They would follow your progress over time, using information from your medical records. We don't have details about specific visits or extra assessments you might need for the study, as it's mainly about observing your standard care. The total duration of your participation would depend on how long the researchers need to follow your journey to understand the effects of your personalised treatment.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Charité Comprehensive Cancer CenterVerified postcodeBerlin, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'precision medicine'?
Precision medicine means doctors look closely at your specific cancer cells to find the best treatment that targets your unique cancer.
Do I have to move to Berlin to join?
No, this study is observing patients who are already receiving care and advanced testing at a specific hospital in Berlin, Germany.
Will I get new medicines in this study?
No, this study just observes the treatments your doctors choose for you based on your advanced cancer tests. You won't receive extra medicines through the study itself.
Will my privacy be protected?
Yes, your personal information will be kept private and confidential by the research team.
Can I leave the study once I've joined?
Yes, you can choose to leave the study at any time without it affecting your medical care.
How to find out more
Damian T Rieke, MD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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