Texas study may offer insight into clinical trial enrollment

During the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns about participating in clinical trials slowed down enrollment in the U.S. Researchers from the Texas CEAL Regional Team used surveys to study awareness of clinical trials, willingness to participate in trials, and enrollment in trials across the state.

Researchers divided survey participants into five age groups: 18-24, 25-34, 35-44, 45-54, and 55 years and older. Compared to the youngest age group, people in the two oldest age groups were significantly less likely to have signed up for a COVID-19 clinical trial. However, those 55 and older were more willing to participate in clinical trials. Researchers suggest that older people may be less comfortable using technology to sign up for trials.

“Future work should focus on science and health literacy, straightforward messaging around clinical trials, and utilizing trusted messengers to disseminate clinical trial enrollment information.” Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics, April 2024

The study found that women were less willing to participate and enroll in COVID-19 clinical trials. This finding is in line with the historical lack of women of reproductive age in clinical trials, which can be traced in part to fertility-related concerns and barriers such as arranging for childcare and being able to take time off from work to participate.

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COVID-19 clinical trial participation and awareness in Texas