Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Skin Cancer Clinical Trials in the Hispanic Population

TL;DR

This study explores why Hispanic patients are underrepresented in skin cancer clinical trials and finds they are more likely to agree with statements about the benefits of participation.

Contribution

The study identifies specific motivational factors unique to the Hispanic population for participating in skin cancer clinical trials.

Findings

Hispanic patients showed stronger agreement with statements about the benefits of clinical trials for their community.

Hispanic ethnicity was linked to higher odds of agreeing that participation in skin cancer studies is beneficial.

Hispanic patients were more likely to express a desire to help others through trial participation.

Abstract

Objective: To determine the factors that might limit Hispanic patients from participating in dermatological clinical trials.

Methods: From January 2022 to July 2022, we administered a 31-item, in-person questionnaire to patients recruited in the waiting area of the Caridad Center, one of the largest free clinics in the United States with a predominately Hispanic population, and a nearby private primary care clinic.

Results: Overall, Hispanic patients agreed significantly more with statements in the domain of attitude and behavioral beliefs compared to non-Hispanic survey respondents. The Hispanic ethnicity was associated with increased odds of agreeing with the following statements: “My community would really benefit from skin cancer clinical trials” (OR=0.52; 95% CI 0.30, 0.92), “My participation in a skin cancer study would be very good” (OR=0.59; 95% CI 0.35, 0.99), and “I like to do good for others” (OR=0.41; 95% CI 0.22, 0.77).

Conclusion: While the United States population is composed of 18.5% Hispanics, they only account for 1% of patients enrolled in clinical trials. This study helps identify potential motivational factors for Hispanic patients to participate in skin cancer clinical trials.