Identifying motivations and barriers to patient participation in clinical trials.
BACKGROUND
This study assessed cancer patients' knowledge and attitudes towards clinical trials (CTs).


METHODS
A survey was administered to 100/141 cancer outpatients.


RESULTS
82% respondents had heard of CTs, but many could only provide limited definitions and perceived them as high risk. About half had previously been approached to participate in a trial, and 67% had agreed to participate. Factors influencing participation in trials, barriers to recruitment, and suggestions for increased recruitment in clinical trials were identified.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings suggest general support of CTs. Education programs are needed to raise awareness, reduce fears, and dispel myths about CT participation.
Jones
Jennifer M
JM
Princess Margaret ospital, Toronto, ON, Canada. jennifer.jones@uhn.on.ca
Nyhof-Young
Joyce
J
Moric
Jakov
J
Friedman
Audrey
A
Wells
Woody
W
Catton
Pamela
P
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003657:Decision Making; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D010358:Patient Participation / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D018579:Patient Selection; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires