Barriers to accrual and enrollment in brain tumor trials

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Clinical Trial Accrual

Background:

• Malignant brain tumors have poor patient survival rates, partly due to challenges in treatment advancement.
• Poor clinical trial accrual is a significant, potentially modifiable factor hindering progress in neuro-oncology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors contributing to low clinical trial enrollment in neuro-oncology.
• To propose solutions for improving patient participation in clinical trials.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of survey data from brain tumor patients and neuro-oncology providers regarding clinical trial discussions and referrals.
• Review of data on patient willingness to enroll in oncology clinical trials.
• Collaboration between the Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO), Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) Working Group, and other partners.

Main Results:

• Surveys indicate clinicians often inadequately discuss and refer patients for clinical trials.
• Data suggests most eligible oncology patients are willing to enroll when asked.
• Collaborative efforts aim to double clinical trial accrual within five years.

Conclusions:

• Inadequate clinician communication and referral are key barriers to clinical trial accrual in neuro-oncology.
• Targeted interventions and collaborations can improve patient enrollment.
• Increasing clinical trial participation is essential for developing better brain tumor therapies.