Comparing an AI chatbot and handouts to boost oral cancer awareness
Official title: Comparative Study on Enhancing Oral Cancer Awareness: Classical Educational Materials vs. AI-Powered Chatbot
Run by Virginia Commonwealth University · NCT06682494 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will test whether an AI-powered chatbot or traditional educational handouts better increase oral cancer knowledge among African American adults in the Richmond area.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Virginia Commonwealth University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Richmond, Virginia) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 24, 2025 |
| Main results expected | October 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | October 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 8, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06682494 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are English-speaking African American adults in the Richmond area who can provide informed consent and participate in brief educational activities.
✕Probably not a fit
People who are minors, cannot read or speak English, are unable to consent, are prisoners, or live outside the Richmond/VCU catchment are unlikely to benefit from or be eligible for this project.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional project at Virginia Commonwealth University compares two education approaches—traditional CDC/ACA-sourced handouts and an AI-powered chatbot—to see which more effectively increases oral cancer knowledge among African American adults in Richmond. Participants who can read and consent in English will be assigned to receive either printed or digital handouts with calculated reading time or a link to interact with a chatbot that answers questions about risks, symptoms, prevention, and the importance of dental check-ups. Outcomes focus on changes in participants' knowledge of oral cancer and related preventive behaviors following the intervention. The project excludes minors, prisoners, and individuals unable to consent or participate due to physical or mental limitations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the chatbot could provide an accessible, scalable way to increase oral cancer awareness and encourage preventive dental care in underserved communities.
How similar studies have gone: Digital health education and chatbots have improved knowledge in other health areas, but applications specifically targeting oral cancer prevention in African American communities are limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Identify as African American as defined by the US Census * Participants must be able to read, speak, and write in English Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals who cannot physically or mentally participate in the research project will be excluded * Adults unable to consent * Individuals who are not yet adults (infants, children, teenagers) * Prisoners
Where it's running
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Tamas Gal, Ph.D — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Tamas Gal, Ph.D
- Email: Tamas.Gal@vcuhealth.org
- Phone: 804-628-2123
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.