Improving access to clinical trial participation among underrepresented kidney cancer patients.

Abstract

430 Background: It is well-studied that multiple barriers exist to oncology clinical trial participation. Patient (pt)-related barriers include lack of education about clinical trials and increased financial burden. Literature is saturated with studies identifying barriers to oncology trial enrollment, but limited randomized studies exist addressing possible solutions. Our study addresses this educational gap, with an overall goal of increasing access to clinical trial participation. Methods: A clinical trial education program targeting kidney cancer patients was developed. By partnering with kidney cancer pts (N = 8) and using semi-structured interviews, information about their clinical trial knowledge was gathered. An in-person educational program and animated video covering varied topics pertaining to clinical trials were created. Pre/post program surveys captured participant demographics and current knowledge/perceptions about clinical trials. Wilcoxon signed-ranked test was used to compare the pre/post responses. Results: To date, 77 pts completed both surveys. Demographics included: Male (73.7%), Female (26.3%), < 60 years (23.7%), ≥ 60 years (76.3%), White (89.6%), Black (3.9%), American Indian (1.3%), Asian (2.6%), Other (1.3%), Hispanic/Latino (5.3%). Statistically significant improvements were observed in several domains between pre/post responses. Pts demonstrated increased understanding of placebo use in clinical trials (P = 0.0003), randomization (P = 0.0002), general knowledge of clinical trials (P < .0001), where to find cancer research studies (P < 0.0001) and improved perceptions regarding the cost and time to participate in clinical trials (P = 0.006). Conclusions: Previous research demonstrates the value of pt education in improving understanding and decision-making regarding clinical trial participation. Similarly, our study demonstrates statistically significant improvement in pt understanding of key clinical trial concepts following an educational intervention. Specifically, significant gains were observed in knowledge related to placebo use, randomization, general understanding of trials, and awareness of where to find cancer research studies. These results suggest that the educational program was effective in addressing common misconceptions and information gaps that may serve as barriers to trial participation. For non-statistically significant variables, such as understanding of the voluntary nature of trials, concerns about insurance coverage, timing of study offerings, and willingness to participate—it is possible that pts already possessed a strong baseline understanding. In summary, while our findings support the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving clinical trial literacy, further research is needed to determine whether education alone is sufficient to influence participation.