Can a smartphone app lift depression in incurable cancer patients?

NCT ID NCT06582784

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests a mobile app called Moodivate that helps people with incurable cancer track their daily activities and mood, and suggests new activities to improve their mood. About 279 participants will be randomly assigned to use the app or receive usual care for 8 weeks, with follow-up at 12 weeks. The goal is to see if the app can reduce depression symptoms and improve quality of life.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Moodivate mobile app (behavioral activation therapy)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could provide a convenient, low-cost way to ease depression in people with incurable cancer.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with no placebo control. The app may not improve mood more than usual care, and some people may find it frustrating or emotionally distressing.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cancer Depression depressive disorder neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Medical University of South Carolina

    RECRUITING

    Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••