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An Internet-based cancer clinical trials matching resource
James M Metz1, Carolyn Coyle, Courtney Hudson
1University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA. metz@xrt.upenn.edu
Journal of Medical Internet Research
|July 7, 2005
Summary
Many cancer patients use the internet to find clinical trials. A web-based matching resource successfully connected 627 patients to trials, highlighting the need for diverse patient recruitment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Informatics
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Growing patient reliance on the internet for cancer clinical trials information.
- Limited definition and accessibility of existing clinical trials recruitment services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel web-based cancer clinical trials matching resource.
- To analyze the demographics of patients successfully matched through this online platform.
Main Methods:
- Utilized OncoLink, an internet-based educational resource from the University of Pennsylvania Cancer Center.
- Implemented a secure online system for patients to enter demographic data for clinical trials matching.
- Facilitated appointments with principal investigators for successfully matched patients.
Main Results:
- Successfully matched 627 patients to potential clinical trials between January 2002 and April 2003.
- The average patient age was 56 years, with 60% males and over 90% Caucasian.
- Predominant cancer types included lung (14%), colorectal (13%), melanoma (10%), and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (9%).
Conclusions:
- Demonstrates significant patient willingness to utilize internet resources for clinical trials enrollment.
- Emphasizes the necessity of ensuring diverse socioeconomic and racial representation in online recruitment.
- Highlights the resource's effectiveness in pre-screening and connecting motivated patients with clinical trials.