Decision Support Tool for Pancreatic Cancer

This trial tests a tool designed to help individuals at high risk of pancreatic cancer make informed decisions about screening. The electronic decision support tool aims to enhance communication between patients and healthcare providers. Individuals advised by their doctor to consider pancreatic cancer screening, who are not currently in a screening program and can speak English, may be suitable for this study. Participants will either use the new tool or follow the usual care process to evaluate the tool's effectiveness in real-life medical settings. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to innovative research that could improve decision-making for pancreatic cancer screening.

Research has shown that electronic decision support tools, like the one under testing, are generally safe. These tools are software programs that assist individuals in making informed health decisions. As a software tool, it does not carry the same safety concerns as drugs or medical devices. No reports have indicated problems directly caused by these tools. Similar tools are already in use in other healthcare areas to aid decision-making. For those considering joining this trial, the tool itself poses no known risks to health.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the electronic decision support tool for pancreatic cancer screening because it brings a personalized approach to patient care. Unlike the traditional method, where decisions are often made solely by healthcare providers, this tool encourages shared decision-making by providing patients with tailored information and support. This empowers patients to be more involved in their health choices, potentially leading to more informed and satisfactory decisions about their screening options. By integrating technology into clinical care, this tool aims to enhance patient engagement and improve the overall screening process.

Studies have shown that decision support tools can help detect pancreatic cancer early. Research indicates that these tools, often using artificial intelligence (AI), can identify high-risk individuals up to three years before diagnosis. In some programs using these tools, patients achieved a five-year survival rate of 73.3%, with an average survival time of 9.8 years. In this trial, participants in one arm will use an electronic decision support tool to assist doctors and patients in making informed decisions about screening. This is crucial given the uncertainty surrounding the benefits of current screening methods. By utilizing health records and predictive algorithms, these tools aim to catch cancer early, potentially improving patient outcomes.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰