IMPORTANT Studie, Horizon Europe, FHNW School of Computer Science

Older patients with advanced breast cancer face different treatment risks and tolerability compared to younger populations. However, clinical decision-making for this group is still based on limited evidence. The IMPORTANT project addresses this gap through a large-scale European clinical study designed to improve cancer treatment for older adults.

IMPORTANT delivers a pragmatic, decentralised clinical trial that reflects real-world healthcare conditions. Conducted across six European countries with about 500 participants, the study generates high-quality (level I) evidence on treatment effectiveness, tolerability, and quality of life. Its real-world design provides actionable insights into how therapies perform in everyday clinical practice. The results contribute to enabling more informed and personalised treatment decisions.

At its core, the study investigates whether lower initial doses of CDK4/6 inhibitors combined with endocrine therapy can offer comparable outcomes to standard full-dose treatments for older, frail patients with advanced HR+/HER2-negative breast cancer. A comprehensive geriatric assessment ensures that patient frailty is systematically considered, supporting more tailored and appropriate treatment strategies.

Beyond clinical outcomes, IMPORTANT advances patientcentration in oncology research. The Institute of Interactive Technologies (FHNW) contributes a dedicated clinical trial recruitment and engagement service, designed through a multidisciplinary, user-centred process. By actively involving patients, caregivers, and clinicians, the service improves accessibility, trust, and participation throughout the trial, while generating valuable insights into patient needs and trial performance.