The Children’s Oncology Group (COG) Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Responsible Investigator (RI) Network: An initiative for advancing AYA cancer research in the National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN).

Abstract

e18016 Background: The COG has previously developed a successful model in which institutional RIs are identified to champion site-level research activities and trial enrollment. In response to low participation of AYAs in COG clinical trials, the COG AYA RI Network was developed. Methods: In January 2018, the COG AYA Committee solicited nominations of AYA RIs by site Principal Investigators. The AYA RI role is focused on the following site-level activities: 1. Working with the local IRB to prioritize AYA relevant studies; 2. Developing systems for screening AYAs for enrollment; 3. Serving as a liaison with medical oncology; 4. Educating staff on disparities in AYA outcomes. Increased site-level interaction with adult NCTN groups is a goal of this initiative. Results: The network was launched in February 2018. Subsequently, 144 RIs (physicians, research staff, psychologists, administrators) from 118 demographically and geographically diverse sites have joined the initiative. To date, there have been 9 interactive webinars, with 18 presenters from diverse institutions, each attended by 60-90 RIs. Two symposia on addressing barriers to enrollment were held at COG meetings. Shared site-level barriers and facilitators to enrollment have been identified. The most common recommendations for improving AYA accrual are: 1. Increase the number and diversity of AYA trials; 2. Increase collaboration between pediatric and medical oncology; 3. Increase support and resources from institutional leadership; and 4. Overcome logistical constraints to accruing AYAs to COG trials. Recently, the COG AYA RI Network joined with the SWOG AYA Committee to identify site-level dyads involving an AYA RI representing each group. Conclusions: To our knowledge, the COG AYA RI network is a novel model for enhancing AYA-focused cooperative group research at the site level, including enrollment on clinical trials. Next steps include conducting a formal survey to gather site-level data and establishing metrics to assess impact of this initiative, as well as continuing to work closely with SWOG to improve cross-group trial enrollment of AYAs.