Understanding why cancer patients stop taking their medications

Prediction of Anti-Cancer Medication Discontinuation via Patient Portal Messages and Structured Electronic Medical Records

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11123119

This study looks at why some people with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer stop taking their oral anti-cancer medications, so we can help doctors better support patients and improve their treatment success.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11123119 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons behind the discontinuation of oral anti-cancer medications among patients, particularly those with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. By analyzing patient portal messages and structured electronic medical records, the study aims to identify factors that contribute to medication adherence. The goal is to provide healthcare providers with insights that can help improve patient support and treatment compliance, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes. The research employs a combination of data analysis and patient communication to understand the challenges faced by patients in maintaining their treatment regimens.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer who are prescribed long-term oral anti-cancer therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing treatment with oral anti-cancer medications or those with non-hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for helping cancer patients adhere to their medication regimens, potentially increasing survival rates and reducing healthcare costs.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding medication adherence through patient communication and electronic health records, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 anti-canceranti-cancer therapyBreast CancerCancer Patientcancer recurrence
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.