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Clinical trial participation. Viewpoints from racial/ethnic groups
1Department of Cancer Control and Epidemiology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York 14263.
Cancer
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Racial and ethnic minorities have low awareness and participation in cancer clinical trials due to mistrust and lack of opportunity. Strategic, culturally sensitive recruitment and education are crucial for equitable participation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Clinical Trials
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Clinical trial participation for racial/ethnic groups is under-researched.
- Underrepresentation of minority groups in cancer clinical trials is a growing concern.
- Equitable access to cancer treatment advancements is not realized by all populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the views and opinions of racial/ethnic groups on clinical trial participation.
- To explore barriers and facilitators to participation in cancer clinical trials among minority populations.
Main Methods:
- Diagnostic research utilizing telephone surveys.
- Qualitative data analysis and reporting.
- Study subjects included African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans in Buffalo, NY.
Main Results:
- Participants demonstrated limited knowledge of cancer clinical trials and few opportunities for involvement.
- Cultural factors, including mistrust of healthcare providers and feeling like "guinea pigs," significantly influenced participation.
- Despite concerns, participants recognized the potential benefits of clinical trial involvement.
Conclusions:
- Improving participation requires strategic planning with representative participants.
- Recruitment strategies must be tailored to specific cultural groups.
- Building trust in the medical care team and implementing continuous education are essential for successful recruitment.