Cancer clinical trials (CCT) awareness and attitudes in cancer survivors (Ca surv)

Abstract

6061 Background: A web-based survey of attitudes and awareness of Ca surv towards CCT was performed from 3–4, 2005. The survey instrument was developed jointly by the Coalition of Cancer Cooperative Groups (CCCG) and Northwestern Univ (NU) and executed by NU and Knowledge Networks (KN). Methods: Ca surv were obtained from a panel of 40,000 adults through KN, based on a US households national probability sample who agree to weekly surveys in exchange for a free WebTV box and ISP service. 2,029 panel members reported a cancer diagnosis. 1,788/2,029 (88%) agreed to participate. Results: Ten-percent of Ca surv were aware that CCT participation was an option. In 73%, a physician was the source of the CCT awareness. Awareness was related to time since diagnosis (< 9 yrs vs > 9yrs); gender (females > males); age (younger > older), and education (baccalaureate vs less). Awareness varied according to cancer type: leukemia, 26%; breast, 15%; lymphoma and lung, 14%; prostate, 12%; melanoma and renal cell, 10%; colorectal and bladder; 6–3%. Awareness was dependent (p < .01) on type of treatment: surgery 5% (n, 880); surgery and RT, 7% (n, 181); RT, 10% (n, 107); chemotherapy, 18% (n, 488). Of the last group, 44% enrolled into CCT; 33% declined and 11% were either ineligible or not offered a CCT. Those who declined were concerned that the new approach might be “less effective” (40%) and about “randomization” (18%). CCT Ca surv reported a high level of satisfaction on a 0 (worst) to 10 (best) scale: “treated with dignity and respect”, 9.6; “overall very positive experience”, 9.3; “recommend to a family member or friend”, 8.8. Conversely, the response to “I felt like a guinea pig” was 1.7. Conclusions: In summary, assessing issues such as awareness, participation and accrual onto CCT must adjust for key demographic, disease and treatment related factors. The CCT experience is valued and appreciated by Ca surv as they move the field forward. No significant financial relationships to disclose.