Patterns of participation of patients in cancer clinical trials in Ireland.

BACKGROUND: In the United States the overall participation in cancer clinical trials (CCT) is less than 3% [Avis et al. in J Clin Oncol 24:1860-1867 (2006); Lara et al. in J Clin Oncol 19:1728-1733 (2001)]. In Europe there is little data on participation in such trials. AIM: We aim to gather information on factors influencing CCT enrolment in Ireland. METHODS: From November 2005 to 28 February 2006 all consecutive patients considered for systemic therapy were assessed for eligibility re participation in available CCTs. RESULTS: A total of 290 patients were included. Overall 2.4% of patients were recruited to one of the available CCTs. The main reasons for failure of trial recruit were: no trial for cancer type (60%), no trial for stage (21%), ineligible by trial criteria (16.1%), patient declined (0.3%), and physician discretion (2.6%). Only one patient, who was otherwise eligible, declined entry into a clinical trial. CONCLUSIONS: Irish patients with cancer are very willing to participate in CCTs. Current levels of recruitment compare favourably with international levels.