Due to cultural stigma attached to breast cancer, cultural stoicism toward pain and symptoms, and language barriers, Asian American breast cancer survivors tend to suffer unnecessarily from pain that could be easily managed using existing pharmacologic or non-pharmacologic strategies. Especially, Asian American breast cancer survivors with depressive symptoms (ABD) are more likely to have inadequate pain management due to their depression, and pain could further deteriorate depression.
A technology-based approach using computers and mobile devices promises to meet the needs of cancer survivors with high flexibility, accessibility, and anonymity. We developed and pilot-tested an evidence-based Web App-based information and coaching/support program for cancer pain management (CAPA) that was culturally tailored to Asian American breast cancer survivors using multiple unique features. Then, specifically for Asian American breast cancer survivors with depressive symptoms (ABD), we have further developed CAPA with additional components for ABD and the individual optimization functionality (CAI).
The CAI study is a federally funded study on study to determine the efficacy of CAI. The study is funded by the National Cancer Institute of National Institute of Health under Award Number R33CA280979. The study will be conducted from 09/20/2022 to 08/31/2027