Using mobile health technology to help advanced cancer patients manage chronic pain

Leveraging mHealth to deliver integrated pain-CBT, opioid monitoring, and self-management support for advanced cancer patients coping with chronic pain

['FUNDING_R21'] · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · NIH-11236544

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

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDANA-FARBER CANCER INST (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11236544 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are advanced cancer patients experiencing chronic pain who are seeking better pain management solutions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing chronic pain or those who are in early stages of cancer may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.