Biobank attributes associated with higher patient participation: a randomized study

Area of Science:

• Biomedical research
• Clinical informatics
• Public health

Background:

• Hospital-based biobanks are crucial for medical research.
• Understanding patient willingness to participate is key for biobank success.
• Factors influencing consent for biobanking require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess patient intent to participate in a hospital biobank.
• To identify factors associated with higher participation rates in biobanking.

Main Methods:

• A survey using 23-item questionnaires was administered to a random sample of patients at a Swiss university hospital.
• Two hypothetical biobank scenarios (vignettes) were used to gauge participation willingness.
• Factorial design manipulated variables such as research focus, data access, sample type, and follow-up requirements.

Main Results:

• Over 70% of 1140 respondents agreed to participate in biobanking.
• Higher participation was linked to oral swabbing for biospecimens, single chart reviews, and no follow-up visits.
• Younger patients, Europeans, those with positive research views, and prior donors showed increased participation.

Conclusions:

• Majority of patients support biobanking, particularly with non-invasive sample collection and streamlined data processes.
• Patient consent is influenced by ease of participation rather than research scope or specific analyses.
• Optimizing biobank protocols for patient convenience can enhance recruitment and data acquisition.