Improving treatment decisions for older women with early-stage breast cancer
Patient-Centered Insights from the POWER Trial: Pre-Operative Window of Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy to Inform Radiation Therapy Decisions in Older Women with Early-Stage Breast Cancer
This study is looking at how a short treatment before surgery for early-stage breast cancer can help women aged 65 and older, along with their doctors, decide on the best follow-up radiation therapy options, so they can make choices that fit their personal health needs and preferences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10745737 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing treatment options for women aged 65 and older diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. It investigates the effects of a three-month course of pre-operative endocrine therapy (pre-ET) on patients' and physicians' preferences regarding adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) after breast conserving surgery. By evaluating how pre-ET influences treatment decisions, the study aims to provide personalized insights that consider patient preferences, life expectancy, and co-morbidities. The goal is to empower patients with information to make informed choices about their treatment options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women aged 65 and older who have been diagnosed with early-stage, estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced breast cancer or those who are not eligible for surgery may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective treatment plans for older women with early-stage breast cancer, potentially reducing unnecessary radiation therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that personalized treatment approaches can improve patient outcomes, suggesting that this innovative method may also be effective.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Showalter, Shayna Lefrak — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Showalter, Shayna Lefrak
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.