CARDIOCARE is a pioneering multidisciplinary project focused on improving the management of elderly multimorbid breast cancer patients at risk of cardiotoxicity. It integrates diverse data types—including clinical, biological, imaging, omics, psychological, and behavioral information—into a unified digital health platform. The project successfully recruited 640 patients for a multicenter prospective study, validating innovative risk stratification models and evaluating the effectiveness of eHealth behavioral and psychological interventions delivered via mobile applications to enhance intrinsic capacity and quality of life.
Technologically, CARDIOCARE developed a robust, scalable platform adhering to international standards to ensure seamless data integration, quality, and interoperability. The project has generated one of the largest omics datasets in this patient population, revealing promising links between gut microbiome profiles and cardiotoxicity, which may lead to novel non-pharmacological interventions. Advanced AI and machine learning models support accurate risk prediction, incorporating explainability and fairness to ensure ethical clinical use.
Regulatory, ethical, and economic considerations are rigorously addressed through continuous oversight, GDPR compliance, and cost-effectiveness analyses. Dissemination efforts include numerous scientific publications, presentations at major conferences, and collaborations with key stakeholders, enhancing the project’s impact and visibility. Effective project management and a 12-month extension enabled the achievement of recruitment and operational goals.
Overall, CARDIOCARE offers a scalable, patient-centered care model that moves beyond reactive treatment by proactively addressing cardiotoxicity and improving quality of life in elderly cancer patients, with significant potential to influence clinical practices and health policies across Europe and beyond
