Early-phase oncology trials can open the possibility of a further treatment option for patients with advanced cancer, yet evidence indicates that access to such trials is not equitable. A team of clinicians at a cancer research centre in England has explored barriers to accessing early-phase trials and has developed measures to promote equality of access to its trials. Among 580 patients referred for trial participation over a four-month period, 8% came from the most deprived areas and 38% came from the least deprived areas of England. Among the 51 patients seen at the centre for an initial assessment who responded to a questionnaire, representation of minority groups was minimal. To address some of the barriers identified, remote initial assessments, prepaid expense support, quarterly newsletters to oncologists and educational sessions for nurses working in cancer services were introduced. Nurses have an important role in encouraging discussions with patients about participation in clinical trials, advocating for less articulate or less confident patients, and reducing barriers to ensure that underrepresented groups gain access to early-phase oncology trials.
Zyl et al. (Thu,) studied this question.