Building a Framework for Equity Enrollment in Oncology Trials | Page 6

Figure 4.

Who are the underrepresented in clinical trials 17, 30-35

Uncertainty about receiving placebo versus active therapy can cause patients
to decide not to participate in an individual clinical study.10

ELDERLY

ETHNIC

WOMEN

ADOLESCENTS

2/3

of cancer patients are age 65+;
account for less than 1/3
of trial enrollees

Collectively racial/ethnic groups represented
less than 10% of participants in trial
testing cancer drugs in 1995-1999
NCI trials demonstrated that women were
less likely than men to be enrolled in
colorectal and lung cancer trials

10% of 15-to-19 year-old cancer patients
enter into clinical trials, while 60% under

age 15 take part
LOW INCOME
$

RURAL

OTHERS

Low socio-economic status has a negative
impact on clinical research participation

Suburban geographic areas had the highest
overall accrual rate
Others who are underrepresented include those
with special health needs (disabled, chronic
illness, comorbidities) and the uninsured

In 2012, the typical clinical trial protocol included 167 procedures, and patients
were required to make 11 visits over an average of 75 days.12 Protocol
complexity can create time, income, and transportation challenges for
patients. Participating in a clinical trial often means committing to evaluations,
therapies, and clinic visits beyond the normal course of treatment. Many of
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