Perceptions of Latino immigrants and long-term residents about cancer clinical trial participation

Background: Latinos and other minority groups have historically had the lowest rates of participation in cancer clinical trials. This is significant given concerns about cancer morbidity and mortality rates among minorities. As such, Latinos may miss the benefits of clinical trial research and, additionally, their lack of representation may contribute to existing cancer related disparities among minorities. The majority of studies examining barriers to cancer clinical trial participation by minorities have looked at African Americans. Few studies have looked at clinical trial participation among Latinos.

Methods: This presentation will present results of a qualitative analysis of 9 focus groups with Latinos in New Jersey, including both recent immigrants and long-term U.S. residents, about their perceptions of participating in cancer clinical trials. Transcripts were reviewed to develop themes and codes, and further organized by these codes using Atlas.Ti software.

Results: Participants expressed potential interest in clinical trial participation, but also indicated concerns and negative perceptions about research and American healthcare in general. Participants agreed that recent immigrants are discriminated against and that Latinos often prefer to return to their native county for treatment. In addition to communication problems, participants across groups emphasized the lack of personal attention paid by American physicians as a barrier. The importance of good information/education about research studies was also emphasized.

Conclusions: Latinos are open to the idea of cancer clinical trial research but need to feel fully informed. Physicians should be made aware of the importance of relationships with Latino patients for building trust and confidence.