Active not recruitingPHASE2INTERVENTIONAL

Artificial Intelligence Supporting CAncer Patients Across Europe - the ASCAPE Project

The ASCAPE project is a research study across Europe using smart computer programs, known as Artificial Intelligence (AI), and large amounts of data to help people with breast and prostate cancer. Its main goal is to improve their quality of life. The project aims to predict common problems patients might experience and suggest to doctors how they can best support them. This involves creating personalised insights to help patients feel better and manage their condition more effectively, by using cutting-edge technology to understand and respond to individual needs.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

PHASE2

Sponsor

Region Örebro County

Enrolment target

500

Start

01 Feb 2021

Estimated completion

30 Aug 2025

Breast Cancer Prostate Cancer Quality of Life Survivorship Toxicity

What is this study about?

The ASCAPE project is a big research effort involving many experts across Europe from different countries and organisations. They're all working together to use advanced computer technology, specifically Artificial Intelligence (AI) and what we call 'Big Data', to make a real difference in the lives of people with breast and prostate cancer. The main idea is to use these smart tools to understand and improve how patients feel and their overall health.

Think of it like having a very clever assistant that can look at lots of information and help predict what might make a cancer patient's day-to-day life harder. For example, it might spot patterns that suggest someone could experience certain difficulties with their wellbeing. Once these predictions are made, the system can then suggest ways doctors can step in and help. This means that support can be much more personal and tailored to each individual, helping them manage their condition and live better.

This study is currently in its second stage of development, meaning it’s past the very early testing and is now looking at how well this AI-based approach works in practice with patients. The ultimate goal is to create better ways to support people after a cancer diagnosis, focusing on their quality of life and making sure they get the most effective care possible, both during and after their treatment.

Key takeaways

This study uses AI to improve life quality for breast and prostate cancer patients.
It aims to give doctors personalised insights to help you better.
It's happening across Europe and involves using smart technology.
Participation requires access to a smartphone/internet.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.
It's about supporting your wellbeing, not changing your core treatment.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 and over, of any gender. People who might be able to join include those newly diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer who are going to have surgery or radiotherapy as their main treatment.

Also, if you've had early breast cancer and finished your main treatment (like surgery or chemotherapy) at least 12 months ago and are still having regular check-ups at a hospital, you might be suitable. They are also looking for people with breast or prostate cancer who are already using an online service called CareAcross.

However, you can't join if you're unable to understand and agree to take part, or if you don't have access to a smartphone, apps, or the internet. Also, if you know you're allergic to materials used in wearable devices (like a fitness tracker), you won't be able to participate.

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 diagnosis of breast or prostate cancer?
Do you have a smartphone, internet access, and feel comfortable using apps?
Are you able to understand and agree to take part in a study?
Are you not allergic to materials commonly found in wearable devices?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The detailed involvement in this study can vary a bit depending on which hospital or service you join through. Generally, if you're taking part, you'll be followed up using a special strategy designed by the ASCAPE project, likely involving the use of smart technology. This could mean using a smartphone app or possibly a wearable device to help monitor your health and quality of life.

The project aims to collect information about how you're feeling and your health status. This data will then be used by the AI system to provide personalised insights. You will likely have regular contact with your doctors or the study team as part of your ongoing care, where these insights might be discussed. The main idea is for the AI to support and improve your existing care rather than replace it.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may offer some potential benefits, such as contributing to research that could improve care for future cancer patients. The personalised insights from the AI might help your doctors better understand and support your quality of life during and after treatment. However, as with any study involving new technology, there might be some risks, like needing to spend extra time providing information or getting used to new apps or devices. Your privacy is important, and your data will be handled carefully. It's crucial to remember that joining is completely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (5)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Urology Department, Sismanogleio General Hospital
Verified postcode
Athens, Greece
Oncology Department, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona
Verified postcode
Barcelona, Spain
Department of Oncology, Örebro University Hospital
Verified postcode
Örebro, Sweden
Department of Oncology, University Hospital of Uppsala
Verified postcode
Uppsala, Sweden
CareAcross
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What exactly is 'AI' in this study?

AI stands for Artificial Intelligence. In this study, it's like a very smart computer program that can analyse lots of health information to help predict things about your quality of life and suggest ways your doctors can help you better.

Will this study change my cancer treatment?

No, this study isn't about changing your main cancer treatment. It aims to support and improve your quality of life alongside your existing care, by giving your doctors more insights through AI.

Do I need to be good with technology to join?

You will need access to and be able to use a smartphone, apps, or internet services for this study. If you're not comfortable with these, it might be difficult to participate.

How long will I be involved in the study?

The study involves following up on your health and quality of life. The exact duration of your participation could depend on your specific situation and where you're joining from, but it will be over time rather than a single visit.

Will my personal health information be kept private?

Yes, your privacy is very important. All your health information collected for the study will be handled with great care and kept confidential, following strict privacy rules.