Barriers and facilitators to Hispanic participation in cancer clinical trials as perceived by both patients and recruiters

Abstract

Cancer is the leading cause of death among Hispanics in the United States; however, cancer clinical trial participation remains low within this population. Clinical trial participation is integral to the advancement of treatments and preventative care; however, Hispanic patients are not participating in clinical trials at a comparable rate as non-Hispanics. This embedded, mixed-methods study sought to explore the perceived barriers and facilitators to participation in cancer clinical trials for Hispanic patients as perceived by both patients and recruiters. The study utilized cross-sectional surveys and semi-structured one-on-one qualitative interviews to secure perceptions from both participant groups. The study found that patients and recruiters both perceive barriers and facilitators within themes of inclusivity, trial education and understanding, trust in trials, and instrumental communications. Divergence was seen among the two groups regarding community outreach and support. Additionally, patients perceived mistrust as the greatest barrier to participation, while recruiters perceived lack of familiarity as the greatest barrier. Findings from the study can be utilized to develop interventions and instruments aimed at mitigating barriers perceived by patients and recruiters.