Relational Agent for Cancer Risk
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new method for assessing cancer risk using a chatbot called a Relational Agent (RA). It helps individuals in primary care settings understand their risk for hereditary cancer and guides them to genetic counseling if necessary. The study aims to determine how many people are identified as high risk and how many proceed to genetic counseling or testing. Participants should have received care at Rutgers Health and have internet access to engage with the chatbot. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative cancer risk assessment methods.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this Relational Agent is safe for cancer risk assessment?
Research has shown mixed safety results when using artificial intelligence chatbots in healthcare, such as those assessing cancer risk. Some studies found that these chatbots sometimes give incorrect advice. For instance, one study found that chatbots ordered unnecessary lab tests in 91.9% of cases and prescribed potentially harmful medications in 57.8% of cases. Another study showed that chatbots provided incorrect cancer treatment advice 33.33% of the time.
While these findings are concerning, this trial uses the Relational Agent, Alex, for risk assessment and genetic education, not for making medical decisions or giving treatment advice. The chatbot's role is primarily to collect information and assist users in learning. Therefore, even though chatbots might have issues in other contexts, their use in this trial is less likely to pose direct health risks. However, discussing any concerns with healthcare providers before joining a clinical trial is always advisable.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike the standard of care for assessing cancer risk, which often involves genetic testing or medical imaging, the Relational Agent (RA) Alex stands out by using an AI-powered chatbot to interact with patients. This innovative approach engages users in personalized conversations, potentially increasing patient understanding and involvement in their health management. Researchers are excited because Alex offers a unique, accessible way to communicate complex health information, which could lead to better patient adherence and outcomes without the need for traditional medical appointments.
What evidence suggests that this Relational Agent is effective for cancer risk assessment?
This trial will evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the Relational Agent (RA) Alex, a chatbot designed to identify patients at high risk for hereditary cancer syndromes. Studies have shown that chatbots like RA Alex effectively assist people in completing genetic cancer risk assessments, with about 36.7% of users finishing the process. These chatbots engage users and enhance their understanding of genetic risks, potentially leading to better follow-up actions such as genetic counseling. Although researchers continue to collect more data, these early findings suggest that chatbots can be a helpful tool in assessing cancer risk.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Anita Y Kinney, PhD, RN
Principal Investigator
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Project CARE is for patients at Rutgers Health primary care sites who may be at high risk for hereditary cancer. Participants will use a chatbot named Alex for cancer risk assessment and education. High-risk individuals will have the option of genetic counseling and testing.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Risk Assessment
Participants engage with a Relational Agent (RA, chatbot) for cancer risk assessment and genetic education
Genetic Counseling and Testing
High-risk participants are offered genetic counseling and testing
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for retention and satisfaction with the risk assessment feature
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Relational Agent (RA) Alex
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Anita Y. Kinney, PhD, RN
Lead Sponsor