Oncologic patients attitudes and participation in clinical trials.

Abstract

e18029 Background: Clinical trials are an essential part of the oncological care. However, literature indicates low accrual of only 2-4% of the oncologic population. One of the leading known barriers is the patient's hesitant attitude toward participation. This study aimed to evaluate the patients' population treated in the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (TASMC) oncology division and their understanding of clinical research in order to improve local recruitment strategies. Methods: An observatory, questionnaire based research was conducted. Patients receiving active oncology treatment in the TASMC oncologic day care unit were asked to complete an anonymous questionnaire, which was comprised of two main parts: the first evaluate demographic information and past experience in clinical research. The second investigated basic knowledge true/false test regarding clinical trials. The questionnaire was validated by both external and internal validity tests (α-Cronbach validity test) and was approved by the local ethics committee. Results: Two hundred patients completed the questionnaires. Median age was 60. 64% would consider participating in a clinical study. 23% (N = 46) had past experience in research, and compared to those with no experience they were found to have higher academic education (67.4% vs 36.9%, p < 0.0001), be more secular (76.1% vs 58.3, p = 0.037) and to have a better understanding of medical research (84.4%, vs 36.5%, p < 0.0001). They were also more inclined to participate in a future research (73% vs 44.9%, p = 0.01). Of those who would decline to participate and had failed the knowledge test (score less than 60%), the most frequent concern was related to the placebo arm (p = 0.055), ability to reject consent, and to trust issues with the treating oncologist. Conclusions: Despite a noteworthy readiness to enroll in clinical trials among the TASMC oncologic population, there were found significant knowledge and basic understanding gaps regarding clinical trials. Further efforts are needed to better understand specific accrual barriers and to develop an adapted information system.