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Disparities in Cancer Clinical Trials Enrollment in Canada
A recent study examined the enrollment of new cancer patients in clinical trials at a large Canadian cancer center from 2006 to 2019. The study aimed to identify any disparities in enrollment and their potential impact on treatment access and outcomes.
Key Findings:
- Overall, only 11.2% of new patients were enrolled in clinical trials, with a cumulative incidence of 18% over 15 years.
- Factors associated with lower odds of enrollment included being female, aged 65 or older, non-English speakers, living more than 250 km away, and not having a primary care provider.
- Disease characteristics, such as cancer site and stage, played a significant role in enrollment variation, with higher odds of enrollment in patients with genitourinary cancers and late-stage disease.
Implications:
The study highlights significant sociodemographic disparities in clinical trial enrollment, indicating the need for targeted strategies to increase diversity in access to cancer clinical trials in Canada. Practical solutions may include developing outreach programs for non-English speakers, improving access for patients living in remote areas, and implementing measures to ensure equitable enrollment across different demographic groups.
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