Improving end-of-life care for patients with metastatic breast cancer

Randomized Trial of a Targeted Palliative Care Intervention for Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11103432

This study is looking to improve the care and support for people with metastatic breast cancer by helping them and their doctors talk better about their wishes and needs as they near the end of life, so they can get the best care possible.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11103432 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing end-of-life care for patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) by implementing a targeted palliative care intervention called TARGET-PC. The intervention aims to improve communication between patients and clinicians regarding end-of-life preferences and care delivery. By identifying patients at high risk of poor outcomes, the study seeks to provide timely and appropriate palliative care, ultimately improving the quality of life for these patients. The approach involves a five-session program designed to address the unique needs of MBC patients and ensure they receive the best possible care as they approach the end of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer who are experiencing clinical indicators of poor prognosis.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage breast cancer or those who are not experiencing significant symptoms related to their condition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved communication and care delivery for patients with metastatic breast cancer, enhancing their quality of life during a critical time.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in integrating palliative care with oncology for serious cancers, indicating that this approach may be effective for metastatic breast cancer as well.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Advanced Canceranti-cancer therapyCancer CenterCancer Prognosiscancer therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.