Research into how Immunotherapy is given
The OPTIC study has just opened to recruitment, and researchers want to interview patients in groups to find out their opinion about how immunotherapy treatment is given.
Immunotherapy is currently standard treatment for a lot of melanoma patients, and it is usually given by an intravenous infusion, i.e., via a thin tube inserted into the arm, every 2-6 weeks (depending on the specific treatment). Most patients will need to have treatment for at least a year, and some patients will be recommended ongoing treatment even if the treatment works well.
Although giving immunotherapy this way has been proven effective, researchers are now wanting to look at whether they can change the way immunotherapy is given to patients to try to reduce the impact it may have on their quality of life. For example, they want to see if it works as well if it is given at lower dose, less often, or for a shorter amount of time overall. This could mean less visits to the hospital or a lower chance of patients experiencing side effects.
Friday 20th January (morning) or Thursday 2nd February (evening)
And the date for carers is Thursday 9th February (afternoon)
At the moment all focus groups will be held online, therefore you will not have any travel expenses however the OPTIC study team will compensate each participant with a £25 voucher.
If you would like to take part, you can view the summary on the Melanoma TrialFinder to check whether you would be eligible to take part or see the OPTIC study official website for more details.Melanoma TrialFinder
The OPTIC study researchers are currently interviewing patients with advanced melanoma but will want to speak to patients with earlier stage melanoma later in 2023 also, so do keep up to date with the Melanoma TrialFinder to check for new information.