Geeky News Explores the Role of Digital Solutions in Oncology Studies

Surrey, United Kingdom Oct 24, 2023 (Issuewire.com) – Geeky News, a leading technology and lifestyle journal, presents an in-depth discussion of a groundbreaking study titled “Unlocking digitally enabled research in oncology: the time is now.” The study was published in ESMO Open, a renowned platform for oncology research. It addresses the critical need for innovation in clinical oncology trials and paves the way for a more inclusive and efficient approach.

Geeky News goes through the findings of the study in its article, titled “Digitally Enabled Oncology Research: A Breakthrough for Patient Inclusion,”.

Over the past five decades, advancements in oncology therapeutics, screening, and supportive care have significantly improved the survival rates of cancer patients. Central to this progress are clinical trials, which have been instrumental in translating research findings into tangible patient benefits. However, these trials are not without their challenges, primarily due to their high cost and exclusionary nature.

The study reveals that traditional oncology trials are expensive, with the median cost of pivotal trials being approximately $31.7 million. Per-patient costs for phase III trials have seen a significant increase since 1996. Additionally, the arduous and lengthy process of traditional trials limits their geographical reach, concentrating them in a limited number of cancer centers.

One of the most glaring issues highlighted by the study is the lack of inclusivity in traditional clinical trials. That results in low recruitment rates, particularly for ethnic minorities, socioeconomic groups, the elderly, and individuals in remote areas. Racial and ethnic minorities, despite being disproportionately affected by certain diseases, are significantly underrepresented in clinical studies.

The study emphasises the urgent need to leverage digital technologies in clinical cancer research to address these challenges. Oncology clinical trials that embrace digital technologies see a significant improvement in accuracy, patient recruitment, and retention rates. Digital technology simplifies trial procedures, expedites data collection, promotes global outreach, and fosters patient empowerment.

Democratising patient screening, enrollment, consent, and follow-ups can significantly reduce patient burden and drop-out rates. Artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled tools, such as machine learning and natural language processing, streamline patient eligibility assessments and reduce screening time. Furthermore, digital clinical trial (DCT) platforms–like ObvioHealth–including eConsent and electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs), enhance data accuracy, reduce errors, and improve patient compliance.

The study highlights the impact of biosensors and ePROs in collecting clinical data and patient-generated health data (PGHD). The use of these tools provides in-depth insights into a patient’s health, treatment impacts, quality of life, and toxicities. Compliance rates in ePRO-based clinical trials are significantly higher compared to paper-based trials.

The deployment of decentralised and hybrid models in clinical trials helps bridge geographical and demographic gaps by enabling underrepresented populations to participate remotely. The potential for digitally enabled clinical trials in oncology is immense, but it also comes with certain challenges.

The study underscores the importance of secure data storage and transmission in oncology clinical trials. Robust identity protocols and encryption processes are essential for safeguarding patient data. Additionally, the development of patient-oriented regulatory frameworks is crucial for the success of DCT models.

While the initial cost of implementing fully decentralised and digitally enabled clinical research may seem high, the long-term benefits, including improved data quality and reduced costs, make it a worthwhile investment. Digitally enabled research accelerates the development and rollout of life-saving and life-improving therapeutics to the market.

The publication of this study marks a significant milestone in the advancement of oncology research. ESMO Open and Geeky News are committed to driving change and inclusivity in clinical trials, ultimately benefiting patients worldwide.

To read the full article, please visit: https://www.geekynews.co.uk/digitally-enabled-oncology-research/