Shape a study into simpler treatment for bone metastases
Join an online focus group and share your perspective on research into a simpler approach to treating bone metastases.
What’s the title of the study?
OPTIMisation of bone targeted therapy in patients with bone metastases from solid tumoUrS – OPTIMUS.
What’s the project about?
When cancer spreads to the bones (bone metastases), it can cause pain, fractures, and other serious problems that can affect quality of life.
Medicines called bone-targeted therapies can help reduce these complications, but they are often given regularly for many months or years, which means frequent hospital visits, blood tests, and a risk of side effects.
The OPTIMUS study will test whether a simpler approach could work just as well. It will compare the current standard treatment with a single dose of a bone-targeted therapy, with additional treatment only if needed.
The study aims to find out whether this approach can prevent bone complications just as effectively while reducing side effects, hospital appointments, and the burden of treatment for patients. Researchers will also assess whether it provides better value for the NHS.
The researchers are currently applying for a grant for the research. They want to hear from people living with bone metastases, and their friends and family, about their views on the project. This will help ensure the research focuses on the issues that matter most to people affected by bone metastases.
Who’s organising it?
Name of project lead: Holly Schofield
Job title: PPI Officer
Organisation: University of Leeds
Email address: CTRU-Engage@leeds.ac.uk
Who can take part?
You are able to take part if you, or a friend or loved one, have had a personal diagnosis of bone metastases. You don’t have to have previous experience of taking part in research.
Why do you want me to be involved?
By sharing your perspective, you can help shape the design of the study and the plans for patient and public involvement throughout the project. Your contribution will help make the research more patient-centred and could improve future care and treatment for others living with bone metastases.
What will you ask me to do?
You’ll be invited to an online meeting at the end of September. The meeting will take place via Microsoft Teams and will last up to 2 hours. The first meeting is planned for 24 September, 4.00pm to 6.00pm. Extra meetings will be arranged afterwards so that more people can get involved.
At the meeting, you’ll discuss your views on the study. This includes whether the study is important, relevant, and beneficial for patients, and whether it measures the outcomes that are most meaningful to patients and carers.
If you’re not able to make an online meeting, you can either have a phone call with the researchers, or provide feedback over email.
If the research is funded, you may be able to stay involved throughout the study and help shape the research as it progresses.
You will be reimbursed for your time and any reasonable expenses in line with the researchers' payment and expenses policy.
This study includes people affected by several different types of cancer. Unfortunately, the researchers won't be able to offer a place to everyone who signs up. However, if you are not selected, they can keep you updated on the progress of the research and let you know about future opportunities to get involved.
How do I get involved?
If you’d like to take part, or have any questions, please email the team at CTRU-Engage@leeds.ac.uk.
The researchers may ask you a few follow up questions about yourself to help them make sure they involve people with diverse experiences in the meetings.
When’s the deadline?
21 September 2026
Get involved
Join the focus group and help researchers ensure that their project is relevant to and beneficial for people affected by bone metastases.