Language-related eligibility criteria in UK randomised trials: a systematic review of extended research reports

Key Points

• To investigate language-related eligibility criteria used in UK randomised trials and their implications on trial inclusivity.
• Conducted a systematic review of extended research reports from randomised trials in the UK.
• Analyzed the language-related eligibility criteria specified in the reports.
• Included trials published in a defined timeframe to ensure relevance.
• Identified significant variation in language-related eligibility criteria across trials.
• Many trials imposed strict language requirements that could exclude non-native speakers.
• Findings highlight a potential barrier to inclusivity in clinical research.