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Population attitudes toward oncology clinical trials
J Valentino1, M A Andrykowski, T A Wood
1Division of Otolaryngology, University of Kentucky Chandler Medical Center, Lexington, USA.
The Journal of the Kentucky Medical Association
|April 6, 1999
Summary
Kentucky adults show a strong bias against randomized clinical trials, with only 39% willing to participate. Public education is needed to highlight the benefits of clinical trials for individuals and society.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Public Health
- Medical Sociology
Background:
- Understanding public attitudes towards cancer research is crucial for advancing treatment options.
- Experimental oncology treatments and clinical trials are vital for medical progress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine Kentucky adults' attitudes towards experimental oncology treatments.
- To assess willingness to participate in randomized clinical oncology trials.
Main Methods:
- A health survey of 654 randomly selected Kentucky adults.
- Inquiry into demographics, health, personality, cancer experience, autonomy, and health behaviors.
- Presentation of a specific oncology scenario to gauge trial participation willingness.
Main Results:
- 73% of participants were open to experimental therapy of uncertain benefit.
- Only 39% were willing to join a randomized clinical trial in the presented scenario.
- Demographics, health, personality, cancer history, and autonomy had minimal predictive impact on willingness to participate.
Conclusions:
- A significant negative bias exists against randomized clinical trials in the surveyed population.
- Public education is essential to underscore the individual and societal value of clinical trials.
- Further research may be needed to explore reasons for this bias and inform public outreach strategies.