A study looking at a way of assessing pain and other symptoms using a computer (EPCRC - CSA)

Please note this trial is no longer recruiting patients.

This study is aiming to develop a computerised method to assess pain and other symptoms of cancer.

Pain is one of the most common symptoms of cancer. But pain and other symptoms such as depression and severe weight loss (cachexia) are difficult to measure. The way people record how much a symptom affects them may also vary. Researchers are looking for better ways to record these symptoms, and the way they affect daily life.

In this study, people will be asked to answer some questions about pain and other symptoms using a portable computer. The researchers hope to learn more about the best questions to ask. And they want to find out how people feel about using a computer for this.

The aim of the study is to develop a more systematic way of assessing pain and other symptoms so that these symptoms can be managed better.

Recruitment

Start 01/10/2008

End 23/12/2009

Phase

Other

Who can enter

You can enter this trial if you

Have cancer that has spread from where it first started in the body, cannot be cured, and you are having treatment to control symptoms (palliative care)
Are at least 18 years old

You cannot enter this trial if you

Don’t speak the language in use at the hospital where you are having treatment
Have already taken part in the study

Trial design

This international trial aims to recruit more than 1,400 people in different countries. If you take part, you will be asked to answer some questions about pain, and other symptoms, using a portable computer. This should take about half an hour. A member of the research team can help you if needed. All the information you give is confidential.

Hospital visits

You can complete the computerised questionnaire during one of your planned hospital visits. So there are no extra trips to hospital as a result of taking part in this study.