Voices of recovery: A Breast Cancer survivor’s journey with the REBECCA project
As the REBECCA project continues to make strides in enhancing the care and quality of life for breast cancer patients through real-world data, we are excited to share insights from a recent interview with a breast cancer survivor who participated in one of our studies. But before diving into the details of her experience, let’s revisit the REBECCA project and its objectives.
What is the REBECCA project?
REBECCA is an EU-funded initiative aimed at revolutionising the understanding and management of breast cancer recovery. The project harnesses the power of Real-World Data (RWD) to close gaps in clinical research and refine existing clinical workflows.
In practice, REBECCA involves collecting a broad spectrum of health data, not only from traditional medical records but also from wearable devices that monitor behaviour. This comprehensive approach provides a more complete picture of the recovery journey for breast cancer patients.
A participant’s experience with REBECCA
The interview highlighted several key reflections, emphasising the importance of active participation and user feedback in advancing both the REBECCA project and scientific research.
The participant expressed her positive experience with enthusiasm, underscoring the value of being involved in REBECCA’s clinical study. She noted the significance of sharing information with fellow participants—many of whom are also breast cancer survivors or currently undergoing treatment—and the importance of contributing directly to medical and scientific progress.
“I was delighted to be part of this initiative. I believe that whatever I can do to support breast cancer research, I’m willing to do.”
One of the main aspects that emerged from the interview was the user-friendly nature of the REBECCA app, which the participant found particularly beneficial for older users. She appreciated the clear information provided and the sense of community fostered through the app, allowing users to share helpful information during their recovery. She emphasised the positive impact of feeling part of a community of patients who share similar experiences and emotions. However, she also suggested that further updates could enhance user engagement within the community.
Despite these strengths, the participant acknowledged that digital tools need to be even more accessible and user-friendly to meet the diverse needs of patients of all ages and backgrounds.
“It’s very important to feel part of a community, which is made easier through these apps and digital tools. Feeling connected to other women who are likely experiencing the same emotions, and with whom you can share your experiences, is not only useful but crucial in ensuring you don’t feel alone during such a challenging experience like breast cancer.”
“These features would not only simplify daily use of the app but also promote a sense of belonging and support among participants.”
The Role of Health Professionals
The interview also touched on the potential role of health professionals in utilising data collected from the REBECCA Hub to enhance patient care. The participant emphasised the importance of healthcare providers leveraging app data to personalise and optimise care for cancer patients.
“This project is not only a significant step forward in scientific research but also in the patient care process. I hope it will truly transform healthcare during and after breast cancer treatment.”
In conclusion, the discussion highlighted the importance of education in raising awareness and providing support for breast cancer patients, particularly young women who may be unaware of the potential causes and development of the disease.
The interview offered valuable insights for the REBECCA project, underscoring the crucial role of active user participation and feedback in driving progress. By integrating advanced technology, effective communication, and dedicated support, REBECCA aims to enhance medical research and improve the quality of life for patients. This initiative has the potential to significantly impact the recovery journey of breast cancer patients, ensuring more personalized and effective care.
“Using data intelligently can help doctors better understand patients’ specific needs, allowing for a more targeted and effective approach to post-cancer treatment. Patients need these digital tools, which interact with us as a ‘digital friend’ and remind us of the importance of monitoring our health.”