Fact or Myth? Black Patients Do Not Want to Participate in Clinical Trials

Clin Transl Gastroenterol. 2025 Apr 1;16(4):e00826. doi: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000826.

Abstract

Introduction: To assess strategies for optimizing participation of underserved minorities in a blood-based early colorectal cancer detection test study (PREEMPT CRC; NCT04369053) at a hospital serving primarily Black individuals.

Methods: Culturally sensitive, racially congruent research staff approached individuals undergoing average-risk screening colonoscopy. Consent/study procedures were synchronized with clinical appointments. Enrolled and not-enrolled patient characteristics were compared. Recruitment was compared with other study sites.

Results: In total, 247 of 509 eligible individuals were enrolled; most were identified as Black (88.7%). No baseline characteristics were associated with participation. Recruitment was high compared with other sites (11th centile).

Discussion: Recruitment barriers for Black individuals can be overcome when easy, culturally sensitive access is facilitated.

Keywords: clinical trial; colorectal cancer; health equity; inclusion; minorities; representation; screening.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Black or African American* / psychology
  • Black or African American* / statistics & numerical data
  • Clinical Trials as Topic*
  • Colonoscopy / psychology
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / ethnology
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / prevention & control
  • Cultural Competency
  • Early Detection of Cancer* / methods
  • Early Detection of Cancer* / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Informed Consent
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Selection*

Associated data

  • ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT04369053

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