Canadians now have access to a public listing of active cancer clinical trials across the country, a resource that has long existed in the United States and Europe. The Canadian Cancer Society announced the launch of a new website called Cancer Trials Canada on Monday, aimed at making cancer clinical trials more accessible to patients.
The website is entirely bilingual, created in collaboration with the Quebec-Clinical Research Organization in Cancer. Dr. Denis Soulières, a hematologist and medical oncologist involved in the initiative, emphasized that while similar databases exist in Canada, they have primarily been aimed at the medical community. This new platform marks the first of its kind designed specifically for the general population.
According to Dr. Soulières, there has been a significant gap in the dissemination of information regarding clinical trials. He notes that there is a clear public need for increased access to information about these trials, which can play a crucial role in the treatment of cancer patients.
A survey conducted by the Angus Reid Institute in collaboration with the Canadian Cancer Society revealed that while a considerable number of Canadians support expanding access to clinical trials, many lack knowledge about them. The survey found that 90% of respondents are in favor of expanding opportunities for cancer patients to participate in clinical trials. However, a majority of 56% reported that they did not know much about the trials, and 36% admitted to knowing nothing at all.
Respondents also expressed various concerns regarding participation in clinical trials. A notable 74% indicated that fears of potential side effects would make them hesitant to participate if diagnosed with cancer. Additionally, 66% expressed a lack of trust in unproven treatments, which could further deter them from enrolling in trials.
The online poll reached just over 2,000 Canadians and was conducted in January. It is noteworthy that the Canadian Research Insights Council has stated that online surveys do not offer a margin of error due to the absence of random sampling of the population.
The newly launched website, Cancer Trials Canada, not only lists active clinical trials but also offers educational resources to help the public understand how clinical trials operate, as well as the potential risks and benefits involved in participation.
Dr. Soulières pointed out that there remain many types of cancer for which existing treatments are not highly effective, prompting patients to seek alternative information about their treatment options. He emphasized that the development of new treatment options frequently arises from clinical trials, underlining the importance of making such trials accessible to patients seeking better outcomes in their cancer care.
This initiative promises to enhance public awareness and participation in clinical trials, ultimately contributing to advancements in cancer research and treatment options available to Canadian patients.
