NCT06870617 · Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine
Practical Geriatric Assessment (PGA) Implementation Strategies and Correlative Evaluations (PACE-70)
(PACE-70)
What this study is about
The use of a geriatric assessment to inform oncologic care for older persons with cancer is an evidence-based practice that improves patient-clinician communication, reduces treatment-related toxicity, and is recommended by national guidelines. However, the implementation of a geriatric assessment can be time-consuming and burdensome, leading to suboptimal use in clinical practice.
View original scientific description
The use of a geriatric assessment to inform oncologic care for older persons with cancer is an evidence-based practice that improves patient-clinician communication, reduces treatment-related toxicity, and is recommended by national guidelines. However, the implementation of a geriatric assessment can be time-consuming and burdensome, leading to suboptimal use in clinical practice. Developed and endorsed by the American Society for Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the Practical Geriatric Assessment (PGA) is designed to improve clinical usability and adoption, but its implementation in real-world settings has not been evaluated. The PACE-70 study aims to evaluate PGA implementation and resultant chemotherapy dose modification among older adults with advanced cancer treated in a community setting. An exploratory aim will evaluate how the PGA, body composition (via abdominal computed tomography scan) and step count monitoring (via FitBit) correlate with chemotherapy toxicity and other clinical outcomes.
Interventions
OTHER
Practical Geriatric Assessment
The PGA will be administered via the electronic health record (EHR), available for patients to complete independently prior to an initial medical oncology visit, or during the visit with staff assistance. Results from the PGA will be shared automatically with clinical teams via the EHR, including a Best Practice Alert highlighting any identified geriatric impairment(s) and ASCO's recommendation for PGA-adapted care.
OTHER
Correlation of body composition PGA and step count with outcomes
Monitoring of step counts (measured via FitBit) and body composition (measured via standard abdominal CT scans)
Primary outcome measures
Implementation of the PGA
Time frame: 14 days of initial oncology visit
The proportion of eligible patients with a completed geriatric assessment within 14 days of initial oncology visit.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- . For Correlative Analysis Cohort, patients will be excluded if meeting any of the following criteria:
- Unable to effectively read and speak English
- Reliance on a wheelchair, ECOG of 3 or above, clinically bedbound, or unable to walk without assistance every day for the past 7 days (ECOG 3 is confined to bed or chair for more than 50% of waking hours)
- Concurrent enrollment in a therapeutic clinical trial (as clinical trials often have a substantial symptom-reporting structure). Non-therapeutic clinical trial enrollment is permitted
- Lack of clinician consent to approach patient
Exclusion criteria
- other than not meeting inclusion criteria. For Correlative Analysis Cohort, patients will be excluded if meeting any of the following criteria:
- Unable to effectively read and speak English
- Reliance on a wheelchair, ECOG of 3 or above, clinically bedbound, or unable to walk without assistance every day for the past 7 days (ECOG 3 is confined to bed or chair for more than 50% of waking hours)
- Concurrent enrollment in a therapeutic clinical trial (as clinical trials often have a substantial symptom-reporting structure). Non-therapeutic clinical trial enrollment is permitted
- Lack of clinician consent to approach patient
Where
- Princeton, New Jersey
- Lancaster, Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Collaborators
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 3, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations