Why do patients participate in long-term cardiovascular trials? – a questionnaire-based study

INTRODUCTION: Participation in clinical trials by patients with cardiovascular disease is paramount to the development of new treatments. Capturing and keeping patients in the trials until the end is very important and trials are often of long duration and include patients in a clinically stable condition, with few symptoms and a low risk of recurrent disease. We investigated what motivates patients to participate in long-term cardiovascular trials. Increased knowledge may enhance inclusion and retention and minimize lost to follow-up or withdrawal of consent. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A questionnaire with 11 statements to elucidate the reasons for participation and retention in long-term clinical trials was used and replies from 135 participants in trials, 78% men, mean age was 68 years. RESULTS: The two most important reasons for participation were: "I am able to see the same doctor and nurse at the visits", indicated by 89 patients (66%), followed by "I want to promote science", which was indicated by 74 patients (55%). The least important reason was "The visits are free of cost". CONCLUSION: Patients who participate in cardiovascular clinical trials do so because it may provide access to more continuous care but equally important are altruistic motives including a wish to promote science.