Thanks to medical research, there are nearly 12 million cancer survivors living in the United States today. And the research continues: There are approximately 400 new cancer therapies in preclinical and clinical development. As progress continues to treat those with cancer, let’s examine the statistics related to clinical trial participation.
From 1996 through 2002, National Cancer Institute (NCI)-sponsored cooperative group nonsurgical treatment trials for breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers enrolled 75,215 patients:
- 85.5% white
- 9.2% black
- 3.1% Hispanic
- 1.9% Asian/Pacific Islander
- 0.3% American Indian/Alaskan Native…
Cancer incidence was divided evenly among 3 participating age-groups (30-64, 65-74, ≥75 years) in the NCI-sponsored treatment trials; however, trial participant representation was heavily skewed toward the youngest age-group (68%).
Fewer than 5% of cancer patients participate in clinical trials… If 10% participated, studies potentially could be completed in 1 year, instead of the current 3 to 5 years.
Common cancer patient concerns regarding joining a clinical study include:
- Fear of a reduction in quality of life
- Reluctance to accept the possibility of receiving a placebo
- Potential side effects
- Treatments under study are not the best option.
Unfortunately, fewer than 4% of US physicians participate in clinical trials…
Therefore, although most trial participants are highly satisfied with their experience, 8 of 10 cancer patients may be unaware that a clinical trial was a possible option.
After identifying an appropriate trial, 40% of cancer patients either enroll or try to enroll…
Furthermore, most adult cancer patients who participate in clinical trials say a physician greatly influenced their decision to participate.
For those wishing to enroll, only 40% meet eligibility requirements and participate in clinical trials.
Most (91%) participants said they would recommend clinical trial participation to a friend or family member diagnosed with cancer.
Sources: The Center for Information & Study on Clinical Research Participation; National Cancer Institute.
