This Phase I randomized controlled trial involved 186 patients enrolled in early-phase cancer trials. The researchers compared an Early Supportive Care program against standard care. The supportive care included multidisciplinary case discussions and referrals to psycho-oncology, hospital social work, and palliative care.
The study found that the Early Supportive Care group had significantly lower symptom burden scores compared to the standard care group. Scores for psychosocial needs were also significantly lower in the group receiving early supportive care. Improvements in sociofamilial needs were limited to specific items related to distance and guidance.
No adverse events, serious adverse events, or discontinuations were reported. The main reason to be careful is that this was a Phase I trial with a small sample size. Readers should take from this that early integration of supportive care may improve symptom control and well-being, but more research is needed to confirm these results in broader settings.