Using mobile health technology to help advanced cancer patients manage chronic pain
Official title: Leveraging mHealth to deliver integrated pain-CBT, opioid monitoring, and self-management support for advanced cancer patients coping with chronic pain
Funded at Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-11236544 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new smartphone app that helps people with advanced cancer manage their pain better by using techniques from therapy, making it easier for them to get support without needing to go to appointments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | October 7, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $22,705 |
| NIH project number | 7R21CA263838-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11236544 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are advanced cancer patients experiencing chronic pain who are seeking better pain management solutions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing chronic pain or those who are in early stages of cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve pain management for advanced cancer patients by integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into a mobile health application. The approach involves adapting traditional pain-CBT methods to be delivered through a smartphone app, making it more accessible for patients who may struggle with in-person sessions. The app will also support opioid monitoring and provide tailored psychoeducation to enhance self-management of pain. By combining psychological and medical support, the goal is to create a comprehensive tool that addresses the complex needs of patients dealing with chronic pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the quality of life for advanced cancer patients by providing effective pain management strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that mobile health interventions can effectively support chronic pain management, indicating a promising avenue for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Azizoddin, Desiree R — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Azizoddin, Desiree R
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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.