Clinical studies are fundamental to advancing cancer care. Yet, ironically, the individuals these studies aim to assist often encounter the most significant barriers to taking part. Although the idea of “patient-centric” clinical studies has existed for years, over 20 percent of clinical studies in the U.S. are unable to enroll an adequate number of participants, leading to their cancellation.
Why do patients hesitate to join clinical studies?
Despite notable progress in cancer research and therapies, there is still potential for improvement. At present, merely around 7.1 percent of adult cancer patients engage in treatment studies, while only 21.9 percent take part in any type of cancer research. Numerous factors can hinder participation, and not all obstacles can be tackled at once; identifying what stops patients from enrolling is the initial step toward mitigating these barriers.
A primary and enduring obstacle to enrolling in studies is a lack of knowledge. Many patients are not aware that clinical trials exist, much less that there may be trials appropriate for their particular condition and that they might be eligible. Collaborating with advocacy groups and trusted local healthcare providers can help bridge this knowledge gap, enhancing awareness and establishing trust at crucial moments.
Once patients are informed about the trial and verify their eligibility, they may still encounter hurdles such as travel demands, coordinating time off work, arranging childcare, and the financial strain associated with these interruptions. Although some studies provide financial reimbursement, the costs related to time and logistics continue to pose a major challenge.
Addressing barriers to trial enrollment
When patients are given the chance to participate in clinical studies, approximately 50 percent opt to enroll, mentioning concerns such as expenses, logistical issues, and potential side effects. The positive aspect is that participation in clinical studies has significantly transformed, providing participants with enhanced flexibility, choices, and opportunities like never before.
The emergence of wearable technology, remote patient monitoring, and telemedicine facilitates more decentralized trials, thereby eliminating geographical barriers. Furthermore, wearable devices that send data straight to healthcare providers can lessen the necessity for in-person appointments, thereby enhancing both trial participation and retention.
Newer trials are increasingly tailored to enhance patient convenience. In some instances, cancer treatments can be administered in a single session, requiring only an initial and a follow-up visit. These localized therapies are injected directly into the tumor, where they continue to act post-visit. By reducing systemic exposure, they circumvent many side effects linked to conventional treatments.
Transitioning from participation to partnership
For sponsors and healthcare providers, designing patient-centered trials is not merely a recruitment strategy but a chance to align with patients’ everyday lives. Flexible scheduling, lowered treatment burdens, and minimized side effects create a formula for increased participation without compromising data collection. And it proves effective. Studies indicate that trials that integrate patient input see higher enrollment and improved retention. We recognize that clinical studies are the pathway to life-saving treatments. By structuring around patient needs and priorities, the sector can connect with more individuals and ultimately enhance more lives.
Robert Den is a physician executive.