Oncologic patients’ misconceptions may impede enrollment into clinical trials: a cross-sectional study

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Ari Raphael¹  Ravit Geva¹  Ido Wolf¹  Sharon Pelles¹  Nethanel Asher² 

[1] Sackler Faculty of Medicine Tel Aviv University Tel Aviv, Tel Aviv, Israel;The Oncology Division Clinical Trials Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, 6 Weizmann St, 6423906, Tel Aviv, Israel;The Ella Lemelbaum Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel;Sackler Faculty of Medicine Tel Aviv University Tel Aviv, Tel Aviv, Israel;

关键词: Cancer clinical trial;    Accrual strategies;    Patient knowledge;    Cancer patient misconception;    Cancer patient education;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s12874-021-01478-5

来源: Springer

【 摘 要 】

BackgroundClinical trials are an essential source for advances in oncologic care, yet the enrollment rate is only 2-4%. Patients' reluctance to participate is an important barrier. This study evaluates patients' level of understanding and attitudes towards clinical trials.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in the oncology department and day care unit at the oncology division Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Israel. From January 2015 to September 2016. Two-hundred patients’ currently receiving active anti-cancer therapy at a large tertiary hospital completed an anonymous questionnaire comprised of demographic information, past experience in clinical research and basic knowledge on clinical trials.ResultsThe majority of respondents did not meet the minimum knowledge level criteria. In those who replied they would decline to participate in a clinical trial, concern were related to potential assignment to the placebo arm, provision of informed consent and trust issues with their oncologist. Those with sufficient knowledge were significantly more interested in participating. Patients with past experience in clinical trials had a higher level of academic education, were less religious, had a better understanding of medical research and were inclined to participate in future research.ConclusionsMisperceptions of clinical trials may contribute substantially to the unwillingness to participate in them.

【 授权许可】

CC BY