Using a mobile app to help manage pain for cancer patients

Integrating pain-CBT into an mHealth analgesic support intervention for patients withchronic pain from advanced cancers

NIH-funded research Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-11247800

This study is creating a friendly smartphone app that helps people with advanced cancer manage their pain using a type of therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, making it easier for them to get support and track their symptoms and medications right from their phone.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11247800 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a mobile health application that integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) specifically designed for pain management in patients with advanced cancer. Traditional in-person CBT sessions can be challenging for these patients, so the study will adapt this therapy into a more accessible format through a smartphone app. The app will not only provide pain-CBT but also assist in monitoring symptoms and managing opioid medications, making it a comprehensive tool for pain relief. By leveraging technology, the goal is to create a supportive environment that addresses both psychological and medical needs for those suffering from chronic pain due to cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced, incurable cancers who experience chronic pain.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cancers or those not experiencing significant pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve pain management and quality of life for patients with advanced cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using mobile health technologies for pain management, indicating that this approach could be effective.

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.
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.