Patient Perspectives on Deep Brain Stimulation Clinical Research in Early Stage Parkinson's Disease

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder.
• Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an emerging invasive therapy for PD.
• Early-stage PD patient enrollment in invasive therapy trials requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey potential participants for a Phase III trial of DBS in early PD.
• To identify motivating factors and barriers to trial participation.
• To explore gender differences in patient considerations for DBS trials.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted among individuals with early-stage PD.
• The survey focused on motivations, barriers, and gender differences regarding DBS trial participation.
• The study was conducted in partnership with The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

Main Results:

• 72% of survey respondents expressed willingness to learn more about trial participation.
• Early-stage PD patients are likely to consider invasive therapy trials.
• Motivating factors and barriers were identified, with gender differences noted.

Conclusions:

• Early-stage Parkinson's disease patients are receptive to information about DBS clinical trials.
• Patient willingness to consider invasive therapies suggests feasibility for trial recruitment.
• Understanding patient perspectives is crucial for advancing PD treatment research.