Enhancing Patient Retention in Clinical Trials—Strategies for Success
Menée aux Etats-Unis à partir de données portant sur 11 993 patients atteints d'un cancer (âge médian : 62 ans ; 67 % de femmes), cette étude évalue le pourcentage de patients s'étant retiré d'un essai clinique dans les deux ans qui suivent leur inclusion puis identifie les facteurs associés
Clinical trials are crucial for the advancement of oncology treatments. They offer access to novel and potentially effective therapies, provide an extra layer of support for patients through research nurses or coordinators who help them navigate the complex health care system, and can narrow or eliminate disparities in cancer by providing standardized care to all participants regardless of their backgrounds. Clinical trials over the past 3 decades have led to considerable treatment breakthroughs and the improvement of overall survival for patients with cancer globally. However, clinical research has been historically performed on patients rather than with them, leading to the design of complex studies with frequent visits and mandatory biopsies, increasing the burden on patients and decreasing their interest in trial participation. These practices are changing, and patients are now active partners in the research infrastructure, including in the planning and implementation of studies. Without patients’ consent and participation, clinical trials would not be possible.