People living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC)—an advanced form of breast cancer where cancer has spread to other parts of the body—often face ongoing treatments and uncertainty. This raises complex questions about treatment decisions, symptom management, and future planning. To help address these challenges, researchers at The Institute for Education Research have developed an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot that offers personalized, on-demand support and resources for people living with MBC.
The Artificial Intelligence Patient Librarian (AIPL) provides conversational guidance and tailored recommendations, suggesting helpful resources based on individual user questions.
To evaluate how well the chatbot works, researchers conducted a three-phase study:
● They first collaborated with MBC patients to adapt cancer education materials for use with the chatbot.
● Next, they trained the AI to scan and recommend information from over 100 reliable online resources chosen by expert patient librarians.
● They then tested the AIPL with 36 MBC patients through surveys and focus groups.
The participants found the chatbot easy to use and helpful for finding quick answers, especially for those who may be recently diagnosed. However, many participants were already well-informed and actively involved in their care. These users sought more in-depth medical information, emotional support, and guidance for managing relationships and planning for the future. Some also expressed interest in using the chatbot to connect with peers or explore alternative treatments and clinical trials.
This study shows how AI can help close gaps in cancer care by offering reliable and timely support for those navigating complex conditions. Future versions of the chatbot will aim to provide even more personalized help, including a digital companion that shares lived experiences. This could lead to more emotionally supportive care for people with advanced cancer. As this technology evolves, tools like the AIPL could transform how patients interact with their care—promoting connection, empowerment, and autonomy throughout their care journey.
The development and evaluation of the AIPL were conducted in collaboration with the M. Lau Breast Center at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, leveraging their expertise in patient education and support.
Dr. Yvonne Leung, the lead author of the study, is an Educational Investigator at The Institute for Education Research at UHN. Dr. Leung is also a Research Scientist at UHN’s de Souza Institute and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto.
This work was supported by UHN Foundation and Pfizer Global Medical Grants.
Leung YW, So J, Sidhu A, Asokan V, Gancarz M, Gajjar VB, Patel A, Li JM, Kwok D, Nadler MB, Cuthbert D, Benard PL, Kumar V, Cheng T, Papadakos J, Papadakos T, Truong T, Lovas M, Wong J. The Extent to Which Artificial Intelligence Can Help Fulfill Metastatic Breast Cancer Patient Healthcare Needs: A Mixed-Methods Study. Curr Oncol. 2025 Mar 2. doi: 10.3390/curroncol32030145.