Targeted Therapy for Advanced Rare Cancers
(PREDiCTc Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a targeted therapy designed to address specific genetic features of cancer cells in individuals with advanced rare cancers or cancers with unusual genetic traits. The goal is to assess how this treatment impacts quality of life and survival in real-world settings. The trial seeks participants living with one of these rare cancers who are already receiving a targeted therapy approved by Health Canada but not yet funded nationwide. Participants should be in good general health and able to complete quality-of-life surveys. The study aims to gather evidence to inform decisions about making this treatment more widely available. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could expand access to promising treatments.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it requires that you are currently receiving a specific targeted therapy approved by Health Canada. You cannot participate if you've been treated with another agent or in another trial within 14 days before joining this one.
What prior data suggests that this targeted therapy is safe for patients with advanced rare cancers?
Research has shown that targeted therapy, which focuses on specific parts of cancer cells, often produces different side effects than traditional chemotherapy. Some targeted therapies may cause fewer side effects by attacking cancer cells while sparing normal cells.
In some studies, targeted therapies have generally been well-tolerated, meaning most people do not experience severe side effects. However, side effects can still occur and vary based on the drug and the individual. Common side effects might include fatigue, diarrhea, and skin changes.
Health Canada has approved the treatment in this trial, indicating it has passed safety checks for other uses. This approval suggests the therapy is considered safe, but monitoring participants for any side effects during the trial remains important.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about targeted therapy for advanced rare cancers because it offers a personalized approach to treatment. Unlike standard chemotherapy or radiation, which can affect both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapies are designed to home in on specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth. This precision can potentially lead to fewer side effects and improved effectiveness. By directly interfering with the cancer's unique biology, targeted therapy provides hope for better outcomes in cancers that currently have limited treatment options.
What evidence suggests that this targeted therapy is effective for advanced rare cancers?
Studies have shown that targeted therapies, which address the specific genetic causes of cancer, can improve outcomes for patients with rare cancers. Research indicates that these treatments are particularly effective in advanced rare cancers by tailoring approaches to the unique genetic makeup of each tumor. In this trial, participants will receive targeted therapy, which has demonstrated better results in conditions like non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, and kidney cancer. Evidence suggests that by attacking the cancer at its genetic source, these therapies can slow the disease and potentially extend patients' lives. With Health Canada's approval, these treatments are considered both effective and safe for certain types of cancer.34678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Cheryl Ho, MD
Principal Investigator
BC Cancer
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with advanced rare cancers or those with uncommon molecular changes, who are expected to live at least 12 weeks. They must be on a Health Canada approved targeted therapy not covered by national funding, have stable brain metastases if present, and be physically able to undergo treatment (ECOG 0-2). Participants need functioning major organs and the ability to consent.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive targeted therapy for advanced rare cancers or cancers with rare molecular aberrations
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Targeted Therapy
Targeted Therapy is already approved in Canada, European Union, United States for the following indications:
- Advanced rare cancers
- Cancer harbouring rare molecular aberrations
- Various cancers with specific molecular targets
- Specific cancers with FDA-approved targeted therapies
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
British Columbia Cancer Agency
Lead Sponsor