Improving cancer care for older adults with gastrointestinal cancers

Resilience and Equity in Aging, Cancer, and Health (REACH): Promoting Physical Resilience and Cancer Care Equity for Adults Age 70 and Older Diagnosed With Gastrointestinal Malignancy

NA · Dana-Farber Cancer Institute · NCT04674267

This study is testing a new way to improve cancer care for older adults with gastrointestinal cancers by adding special consultations to their treatment plans.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment257 (estimated)
Ages70 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorDana-Farber Cancer Institute (other)
Locations1 site (Boston, Massachusetts)
Trial IDNCT04674267 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research focuses on enhancing cancer care for older adults diagnosed with gastrointestinal malignancies by integrating geriatric consultations into their treatment plans. The study is structured in three phases: the first phase assesses the needs of older patients and caregivers, while the second phase involves a pilot intervention to implement the proposed care model. The third phase will expand the clinical trial based on the findings from the initial phases. The goal is to refine and improve the care provided to this vulnerable population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 70 and older who have been diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancers and are continuing care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Not a fit: Patients under 70 years old or those not continuing care at the institution may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to better health outcomes and quality of life for older adults with gastrointestinal cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in integrating geriatric care into oncology, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients who are age 70+ at time of initial consult at DF/BWCC
* Diagnosed with a gastrointestinal cancer, including: cancers of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, bile duct, ampulla, colon, rectum, or anus, as well as neuroendocrine tumors.
* Continuing care at DF/BWCC beyond initial consult visit
* English and Spanish-speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients less than age 70 at time of initial consultation appointment with DF/BWCC.
* Patients who are not continuing care at DF/BWCC beyond first consult visit.
* Not proficient in English or Spanish
* Patient who are not considered appropriate for enrollment due to complex medical, social, or other situation as determined by their primary oncology team.
* Participants with psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements.

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Gastric Cancer, Colon Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Rectal Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Gastrointestinal Cancer, Gastrointestinal cancer

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.