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Aristizabal P, Nataraj S, Ma AK, Kumar NV, Perdomo BP, Martinez ME, Nodora J, Liu L, Lee E, Thornburg CD. Social Determinants of Health and Informed Consent Comprehension for Pediatric Cancer Clinical Trials. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2346858. [PMID: 38079173 PMCID: PMC10714248 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.46858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Ensuring valid informed consent (IC) prior to enrollment in clinical trials is a fundamental ethical right. Objective To assess whether social determinants of health (SDOH) and related sociocontextual factors are associated with parental IC comprehension in therapeutic childhood cancer clinical trials. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study prospectively enrolled 223 parents of children with newly diagnosed cancer at Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, a large quaternary academic center in California, from October 1, 2014, to March 31, 2021. Linear mixed effects models were used to assess whether IC comprehension overall and by domain (purpose, procedures, and randomization; risks and benefits; alternatives; and voluntariness) were associated with SDOH and sociocontextual factors. Data were analyzed from January 1, 2022, to July 31, 2023. Exposures Informed consent for a therapeutic childhood cancer clinical trial. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome of interest was IC comprehension and its associations with SDOH (marital status, language, educational attainment, employment, insurance type, socioeconomic status, and health literacy) and sociocontextual factors (ethnicity, satisfaction with informed consent, and cancer type). Results Of 223 parents, 172 (77.1%) were aged 18 to 44 years, 111 (49.8%) were Hispanic, 152 (68.2%) were women, and 163 (73.1%) were married. In terms of race, 2 (0.9%) were American Indian or Alaska Native, 22 (9.9%) were Asian or Pacific Islander, 8 (3.6%) were Black, 149 (66.8%) were White, and 42 (18.8%) were more than 1 race. In multivariable linear mixed-effects analyses, limited vs adequate health literacy was associated with lower comprehension of informed consent overall (mean [SD], 68.28 [11.81] vs 79.24 [11.77]; β estimate, -9.02 [95% CI, -12.0 to -6.07]; P < .001) and with lower comprehension of the purpose, procedures, and randomization (mean [SD], 65.00 [12.64] vs 76.14 [11.53]; β estimate, -7.87 [95% CI, -10.9 to -4.85]; P < .001); risks and benefits (mean [SD], 62.84 [20.24] vs 73.14 [20.86]; β estimate, -10.1 [95% CI, -15.6 to -4.59]; P < .001); alternatives (mean [SD], 54.27 [43.18] vs 82.98 [34.24]; β estimate, -14.3 [95% CI, -26.1 to -2.62]; P .02); and voluntariness (mean [SD], 76.52 [24.33] vs 95.39 [13.89]; β estimate, -9.14 [95% CI, -14.9 to -3.44]; P = .002) domains. Use of Spanish vs English language for medical communication was associated with lower comprehension overall (mean [SD], 66.45 [12.32] vs 77.25 [12.18]; β estimate, -5.30 [95% CI, -9.27 to -1.34]; P = .01) and with lower comprehension of the purpose, procedures, and randomization (mean [SD], 63.33 [11.98] vs 74.07 [12.52]; β estimate, -4.33 [95% CI, -8.43 to -0.23]; P = .04) and voluntariness (mean [SD], 70.83 [24.02] vs 92.54 [17.27]; β estimate, -9.69 [95% CI, -16.8 to -2.56]; P = .009) domains. Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study including parents of children with newly diagnosed cancer who provided IC for their child's participation in a therapeutic clinical trial, limited health literacy and use of Spanish language for medical communication were associated with lower comprehension of IC. These findings suggest that, in this setting, parents with limited health literacy or those who use Spanish language for medical communication may not fully comprehend IC and therefore may not make truly informed decisions. These findings support the investigation of interventions, across pediatric disciplines, tailored to the participant's language and health literacy level to improve IC comprehension, particularly in racial and ethnic minority populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Aristizabal
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
- Peckham Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, San Diego, California
- Division of Population Sciences, Disparities and Community Engagement, University of California San Diego Moores Cancer Center, La Jolla, California
- Dissemination and Implementation Science Center, University of California, San Diego, Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute, La Jolla
| | - Shilpa Nataraj
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
- currently affiliated with Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Arissa K. Ma
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
- currently affiliated with Department of Family Medicine, Kaiser Permanente, Long Beach, California
| | - Nikhil V. Kumar
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
- currently affiliated with Department of Pediatrics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Bianca P. Perdomo
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Maria Elena Martinez
- Division of Population Sciences, Disparities and Community Engagement, University of California San Diego Moores Cancer Center, La Jolla, California
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Jesse Nodora
- Division of Population Sciences, Disparities and Community Engagement, University of California San Diego Moores Cancer Center, La Jolla, California
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Lin Liu
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
- Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Euyhyun Lee
- Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
| | - Courtney D. Thornburg
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla
- Peckham Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, San Diego, California
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Katz NT, Alpert AB, Aristizabal MP, McDaniels-Davidson C, Sacks BH, Sanft T, Chou CL, Martinez ME. Partnering With Patients and Caregivers in Cancer Care: Lessons From Experiences With Transgender, Hispanic, and Pediatric Populations. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2023; 43:e397264. [PMID: 37200592 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_397264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
A cancer diagnosis thrusts patients and caregivers into a foreign world of health care with systems, protocols, and norms that can leave little room for individual needs and circumstances. Quality and efficacious oncology care requires clinicians to partner with patients and caregivers to understand and incorporate their needs, values, and priorities into information sharing, decision making, and care provision. This partnership is necessary for effective patient- and family-centered care and access to individualized and equitable information, treatment, and research participation. Partnering with patients and families also requires oncology clinicians to see that our personal values, preconceived ideas, and established systems exclude certain populations and potentially lead to poorer care for all patients. Furthermore, inequitable access to participation in research and clinical trials can contribute to an unequal burden of cancer morbidity and mortality. Leveraging the expertise of the authorship team with transgender, Hispanic, and pediatric populations, this chapter provides insights and suggestions for oncology care that are applicable across patient populations to mitigate stigma and discrimination and improve the quality of care for all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi T Katz
- Victorian Paediatric Palliative Care Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Parkville Integrated Palliative Care Service, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Palliative Care Service, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Insitute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ash B Alpert
- Center for Gerontology & Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
- Department of Health Services Policy & Practice, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
| | - M Paula Aristizabal
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology, University of California and Peckman Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, CA
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA
| | - Corinne McDaniels-Davidson
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
| | - Bronwyn H Sacks
- Victorian Paediatric Palliative Care Program, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Insitute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tara Sanft
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Calvin L Chou
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Veterans Affairs Helathcare System, San Francisco, CA
| | - Maria Elena Martinez
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, CA
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, San Diego, CA
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Oliviero E, Kourkopoulos G, Kimmelman J. Success rates for US and Canadian anticancer drug development efforts in pediatric oncology. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29534. [PMID: 35739610 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 5% of adult cancer interventions put into clinical testing attain regulatory approval. Little is known about corresponding rates for pediatric cancer. METHODS Our primary outcomes were the proportion of interventions graduating to the next trial phase, randomized trials, and/or clinical practice. We created a saturation sample of clinical trials by searching ClinicalTrials.gov for all pediatric anticancer trials in the United States or Canada. Trial characteristics were extracted automatically from ClinicalTrials.gov records, and cancer indication/drug class categorization, biomarker enrichment, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval status at time of recruitment were double-extracted from each record. Regulatory approval status and labeling modifications for each intervention were determined by searching Drugs@FDA and the New Pediatric Labeling Information Database. RESULTS Five hundred eighty-nine pediatric trials launched between 1987 and 2019 were captured. The overall probability of graduation was 17.0%; 18.9% of interventions graduated from phase 1 to phase 2 trials, and 1.6% of interventions graduated from phase 2 to phase 3 trials. The proportion of interventions advancing from phase 1 to FDA approval was 3.6%, and 1.9% of interventions tested in phase 1 advanced to a randomized phase 2 trial. Only biomarker enrichment was significantly predictive of graduation from phase 1 to phase 2 trials (p = .011). CONCLUSION The proportion of interventions advancing from phase 1 testing to FDA approval was similar to estimates for adult oncology. Our findings highlight the challenges for current paradigms of pediatric anticancer drug development.
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Hasan F, Widger K, Sung L, Wheaton L. End-of-Life Childhood Cancer Research: A Systematic Review. Pediatrics 2021; 147:peds.2020-003780. [PMID: 33597286 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-003780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Children with incurable cancer may participate in research studies at the end of life (EOL). These studies create knowledge that can improve the care of future patients. OBJECTIVE To describe stakeholder perspectives regarding research studies involving children with cancer at the EOL by conduct of a systematic review. DATA SOURCES We used the following data sources: Ovid Medline, Embase, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and ProQuest (inception until August 2020). STUDY SELECTION We selected 24 articles published in English that examined perceptions or experiences of research participation for children with cancer at the EOL from the perspectives of children, parents, and health professionals (HPs). DATA EXTRACTION Two authors independently extracted data, assessed study quality, and performed thematic analysis and synthesis. RESULTS Eight themes were identified: (1) seeking control; (2) faith, hope, and uncertainty; (3) being a good parent; (4) helping others; (5) barriers and facilitators; (6) information and understanding; (7) the role of HPs in consent and beyond; and (8) involvement of the child in decision-making. LIMITATIONS Study designs were heterogeneous. Only one study discussed palliative care research. CONCLUSIONS Some families participate in EOL research seeking to gain control and sustain hope, despite uncertainty. Other families choose against research, prioritizing quality of life. Parents may perceive research participation as the role of a "good parent" and hope to help others. HPs have positive views of EOL research but fear that parents lack understanding of the purpose of studies and the likelihood of benefit. We identified barriers to research participation and informed consent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fyeza Hasan
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada;
| | - Kimberley Widger
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; and
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Walker AJ, Lewis FM, Rosenberg AR. Walking on Eggshells: Parents' First Year After Their Adolescent Completes Their Cancer Treatment [Formula: see text]. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs 2020; 37:233-243. [PMID: 32141370 PMCID: PMC7312346 DOI: 10.1177/1043454220909788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite an awareness that parents experience distress and heightened uncertainty at the end of their adolescent's treatment for cancer, little is known about the specific challenges and concerns parents hold for their adolescent survivors or how they manage these challenges. This study described challenges parents experience in the first year after their adolescent's cancer treatment and what parents did to manage those challenges. Method: Single occasion semistructured interviews were conducted with parents and were transcribed verbatim. Data were coded using inductive content analysis methods adapted from grounded theory. Results: Participants were 30 parents of adolescent survivors (13-18 years) who were in the first year following treatment completion. The core construct, "Walking on Eggshells," explained the processes and experiences parents faced once treatment was complete. Two additional domains captured how parents managed posttreatment challenges ("Doing What We Can") and the ways parents helped their adolescents adjust ("Balancing"). Conclusion: Study results suggest that services and materials are needed to help parents know common struggles that arise after treatment and ways to mitigate the severity of distress parents experience.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Abby R. Rosenberg
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA,
USA
- Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle,
WA, USA
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Robertson EG, Mitchell R, Wakefield CE, Lewis P, Cousens N, Marshall GM, Russell SJ, Ziegler DS, Anazodo AC, Trahair TN, Barbaric D, Cohn RJ, Alvaro F, O'Brien TA. Enrolment in paediatric oncology early-phase clinical trials: The health-care professionals' perspective. J Paediatr Child Health 2019; 55:561-566. [PMID: 30288839 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.14248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM Approximately 20-30% of children/adolescents with cancer will not respond to standard therapies. These children are usually offered experimental treatment in the form of an early-phase clinical trial. We examined the perspectives of health-care professionals (HCPs) regarding obtaining informed consent for early-phase trials in paediatric oncology. METHODS We collected survey data from 87 HCPs working in paediatric cancer centres across Australia and New Zealand. RESULTS HCPs were, on average, 44 years old (range = 25-74), with 15.8 years' experience in paediatric oncology (range = 1-40). Few HCPs (17.4%) received training for early-phase trial consent; however, most were willing to attend training (77.9%). HCPs (61.6%) reported that they informed families about early-phase trials without any attempt to influence their decision. However, 23.3% of HCPs reported that they informed families that their child would benefit. HCPs' main obstacle in obtaining consent was their perception of parents' eagerness to 'try anything' (52.3%). HCPs perceived that many parents misunderstood key clinical trials concepts, with 25.2% of HCPs believing that not being given clear information influenced parents' decisions. Physicians were more likely than social workers/nurses to inform families that other children will benefit from enrolment in the study. Social workers/nurses appeared to rate the chance of benefits for the patient higher than physicians. CONCLUSIONS HCPs may experience difficulty conducting early-phase trial consultations and obtaining valid informed consent. Our study highlights the need for formal training for HCPs and additional patient education tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden G Robertson
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard Mitchell
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Claire E Wakefield
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Lewis
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nicole Cousens
- Prince of Wales Clinical School, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Glenn M Marshall
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Susan J Russell
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David S Ziegler
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Antoinette C Anazodo
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Prince of Wales Cancer Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Toby N Trahair
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Draga Barbaric
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard J Cohn
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Frank Alvaro
- Oncology and Haematology Service, John Hunter Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tracey A O'Brien
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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7
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Greenzang KA, Cronin AM, Kang TI, Mack JW. Parental distress and desire for information regarding long-term implications of pediatric cancer treatment. Cancer 2018. [PMID: 30276800 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.31772.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children with cancer have unmet information needs regarding future limitations resulting from cancer or its treatment. Prior research has demonstrated that, in early care discussions, clinicians focus on the acute effects of therapy rather than long-term limitations, partly due to worries of causing distress. The validity of concerns regarding distress is unknown. In the current study, the authors evaluated parental distress associated with information regarding future limitations, and the extent to which distress is associated with information preferences. METHODS The authors surveyed 355 parents of children with cancer within 3 months of diagnosis, and the children's physicians at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. The primary outcome was parental distress associated with information regarding long-term limitations. RESULTS Approximately 46% of parents found information regarding future limitations to be extremely or very upsetting. In multivariate analysis, parents were more likely to consider information regarding future limitations distressing if they also found prognostic information upsetting (odds ratio [OR], 5.36; P<.001), struggled to accept their child's illness (OR, 2.57; P<.001), or had depression (OR, 1.79; P=.01). However, approximately 92% of parents considered information regarding potential future limitations to be extremely/very important. Those who found information regarding future limitations distressing were more likely to consider it important (96% vs 89%; P=.03) and to desire a precise understanding of their child's risks (92% vs 80%; P=.001). CONCLUSIONS Although information regarding future limitations caused by cancer treatment is upsetting to many parents, the majority of them desire this information, and those who are distressed are more likely to value this information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie A Greenzang
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Angel M Cronin
- Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tammy I Kang
- Palliative Care Services, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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8
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Greenzang KA, Cronin AM, Kang TI, Mack JW. Parental distress and desire for information regarding long-term implications of pediatric cancer treatment. Cancer 2018; 124:4529-4537. [PMID: 30276800 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.31772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children with cancer have unmet information needs regarding future limitations resulting from cancer or its treatment. Prior research has demonstrated that, in early care discussions, clinicians focus on the acute effects of therapy rather than long-term limitations, partly due to worries of causing distress. The validity of concerns regarding distress is unknown. In the current study, the authors evaluated parental distress associated with information regarding future limitations, and the extent to which distress is associated with information preferences. METHODS The authors surveyed 355 parents of children with cancer within 3 months of diagnosis, and the children's physicians at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. The primary outcome was parental distress associated with information regarding long-term limitations. RESULTS Approximately 46% of parents found information regarding future limitations to be extremely or very upsetting. In multivariate analysis, parents were more likely to consider information regarding future limitations distressing if they also found prognostic information upsetting (odds ratio [OR], 5.36; P<.001), struggled to accept their child's illness (OR, 2.57; P<.001), or had depression (OR, 1.79; P=.01). However, approximately 92% of parents considered information regarding potential future limitations to be extremely/very important. Those who found information regarding future limitations distressing were more likely to consider it important (96% vs 89%; P=.03) and to desire a precise understanding of their child's risks (92% vs 80%; P=.001). CONCLUSIONS Although information regarding future limitations caused by cancer treatment is upsetting to many parents, the majority of them desire this information, and those who are distressed are more likely to value this information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie A Greenzang
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Angel M Cronin
- Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tammy I Kang
- Palliative Care Services, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Population Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts.,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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Robertson EG, Wakefield CE, Signorelli C, Cohn RJ, Patenaude A, Foster C, Pettit T, Fardell JE. Strategies to facilitate shared decision-making about pediatric oncology clinical trial enrollment: A systematic review. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2018; 101:1157-1174. [PMID: 29455939 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We conducted a systematic review to identify the strategies that have been recommended in the literature to facilitate shared decision-making regarding enrolment in pediatric oncology clinical trials. METHODS We searched seven databases for peer-reviewed literature, published 1990-2017. Of 924 articles identified, 17 studies were eligible for the review. We assessed study quality using the 'Mixed-Methods Appraisal Tool'. We coded the results and discussions of papers line-by-line using nVivo software. We categorized strategies thematically. RESULTS Five main themes emerged: 1) decision-making as a process, 2) individuality of the process; 3) information provision, 4) the role of communication, or 5) decision and psychosocial support. Families should have adequate time to make a decision. HCPs should elicit parents' and patients' preferences for level of information and decision involvement. Information should be clear and provided in multiple modalities. Articles also recommended providing training for healthcare professionals and access to psychosocial support for families. CONCLUSION High quality, individually-tailored information, open communication and psychosocial support appear vital in supporting decision-making regarding enrollment in clinical trials. These data will usefully inform future decision-making interventions/tools to support families making clinical trial decisions. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS A solid evidence-base for effective strategies which facilitate shared decision-making is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden G Robertson
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia.
| | - Claire E Wakefield
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
| | - Christina Signorelli
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
| | - Richard J Cohn
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
| | - Andrea Patenaude
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Claire Foster
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Tristan Pettit
- Children's Haematology Oncology Centre, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Joanna E Fardell
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia; Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, Australia
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Waligora M, Bala MM, Koperny M, Wasylewski MT, Strzebonska K, Jaeschke RR, Wozniak A, Piasecki J, Sliwka A, Mitus JW, Polak M, Nowis D, Fergusson D, Kimmelman J. Risk and surrogate benefit for pediatric Phase I trials in oncology: A systematic review with meta-analysis. PLoS Med 2018; 15:e1002505. [PMID: 29462168 PMCID: PMC5819765 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric Phase I cancer trials are critical for establishing the safety and dosing of anti-cancer treatments in children. Their implementation, however, must contend with the rarity of many pediatric cancers and limits on allowable risk in minors. The aim of this study is to describe the risk and benefit for pediatric cancer Phase I trials. METHODS AND FINDINGS Our protocol was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD42015015961). We systematically searched Embase and PubMed for solid and hematological malignancy Phase I pediatric trials published between 1 January 2004 and 1 March 2015. We included pediatric cancer Phase I studies, defined as "small sample size, non‑randomized, dose escalation studies that defined the recommended dose for subsequent study of a new drug in each schedule tested." We measured risk using grade 3, 4, and 5 (fatal) drug-related adverse events (AEs) and benefit using objective response rates. When possible, data were meta-analyzed. We identified 170 studies meeting our eligibility criteria, accounting for 4,604 patients. The pooled overall objective response rate was 10.29% (95% CI 8.33% to 12.25%), and was lower in solid tumors, 3.17% (95% CI 2.62% to 3.72%), compared with hematological malignancies, 27.90% (95% CI 20.53% to 35.27%); p < 0.001. The overall fatal (grade 5) AE rate was 2.09% (95% CI 1.45% to 2.72%). Across the 4,604 evaluated patients, there were 4,675 grade 3 and 4 drug-related AEs, with an average grade 3/4 AE rate per person equal to 1.32. Our study had the following limitations: trials included in our review were heterogeneous (to minimize heterogeneity, we separated types of therapy and cancer types), and we relied on published data only and encountered challenges with the quality of reporting. CONCLUSIONS Our meta-analysis suggests that, on the whole, AE and response rates in pediatric Phase I trials are similar to those in adult Phase I trials. Our findings provide an empirical basis for the refinement and review of pediatric Phase I trials, and for communication about their risk and benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Waligora
- Research Ethics in Medicine Study Group (REMEDY), Department of Philosophy and Bioethics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Malgorzata M. Bala
- Department of Hygiene and Dietetics, Chair of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
- * E-mail: (MMB); (JK)
| | - Magdalena Koperny
- Research Ethics in Medicine Study Group (REMEDY), Department of Philosophy and Bioethics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
- Department of Public Health and Health Promotion, Regional Sanitary-Epidemiological Station in Kraków, Poland
| | - Mateusz T. Wasylewski
- Research Ethics in Medicine Study Group (REMEDY), Department of Philosophy and Bioethics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Karolina Strzebonska
- Research Ethics in Medicine Study Group (REMEDY), Department of Philosophy and Bioethics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Rafał R. Jaeschke
- Section of Affective Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Wozniak
- Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Tariff System, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jan Piasecki
- Research Ethics in Medicine Study Group (REMEDY), Department of Philosophy and Bioethics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Sliwka
- Research Ethics in Medicine Study Group (REMEDY), Department of Philosophy and Bioethics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
- Department of Rehabilitation in Internal Diseases, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jerzy W. Mitus
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Maria Skłodowska-Curie Memorial Cancer Centre and Institute of Oncology, Kraków, Poland
- Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Maciej Polak
- Research Ethics in Medicine Study Group (REMEDY), Department of Philosophy and Bioethics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
- Chair of Epidemiology and Population Studies, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Dominika Nowis
- Department of Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Genomic Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dean Fergusson
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Jonathan Kimmelman
- Studies of Translation, Ethics and Medicine (STREAM), Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- * E-mail: (MMB); (JK)
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Hazen R, Greenley RN, Drotar D, Kodish E. Recommending Randomized Trials for Pediatric Leukemia: Observer and Physician Report of Recommendations. J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2016; 2:49-56. [DOI: 10.1525/jer.2007.2.2.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Physicians' presentation of treatment options in a non-coercive manner is critical for informed consent for participation in randomized clinical trials (RCTs). This study examined discrepancies between observer and physician report of treatment recommendations for pediatric leukemia RCTs. This study also assessed relationships between recommendations and decisions to participate in RCTs. Participants were 104 parents of children with leukemia and the treating physicians. Measures included observations of informed consent conferences (ICCs), physician report of treatment recommendations, and parent report of trial participation. Observation revealed that physicians recommended RCTs in 38% of ICCs, while physicians reported recommending RCTs in 73% of ICCs. Treatment recommendations were unrelated to decisions to participate in RCTs. Results highlight the importance of enhancing parent-physician communication regarding RCT participation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Eric Kodish
- Cleveland Clinic Department of Bioethics (USA)
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Chang A. Nurses’ Perceptions of Phase I Clinical Trials in Pediatric Oncology: A Review of the Literature. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs 2016; 21:343-9. [PMID: 15475471 DOI: 10.1177/1043454204270252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A review of literature was conducted to explore nurses’ perceptions of phase I clinical trials in pediatric oncology. Specifically, nurses’ perceptions of the goals and outcomes, the nurse’s role, and the informed consent process in pediatric oncology phase I clinical trials were investigated. Findings on possible factors influencing the nurses’ perceptions and the quality of work-life of nurses working at pediatric phase I clinical trial centers were also searched. However, despite an extensive review of published works, no studies on nurses’ perceptions of phase I trials in pediatric oncology were found. Therefore, this literature review consists of findings in similar or related studies such as nurses’ perceptions of experimental therapies in the adult setting, adult patients’ perceptions, parents’ perceptions, or oncologists’perceptions of phase I clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Chang
- Haematology/Oncology/BMT/Immunology Program at the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND In pediatric oncology, many oncologists invite their own patients to participate in research. Inclusion within a dependent relationship is considered to potentially compromise voluntariness of consent. Currently, it is unknown to what extent those involved in pediatric oncology experience the dependent relationship as a threat to voluntary informed consent, and what they see as safeguards to protect voluntary informed consent within a dependent relationship. AIM We performed a qualitative study among key actors in pediatric oncology to explore their experiences with the dependent relationship and voluntary informed consent. METHODS We conducted three focus groups and 25 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with pediatric oncologists, research coordinators, Research Ethics Committee members, parents of children with cancer, and adolescents with cancer. RESULTS Professionals regarded the dependent relationship both as a potential threat to and as a positive influence on voluntary decision making. Parents and adolescents did not feel as though dependency upon the oncologist influenced their decisions. They valued the involvement of their own physician in the informed consent process. The professionals suggested three strategies to protect voluntariness: emphasizing voluntariness; empowering families; involvement of an independent person. CONCLUSIONS Although the dependent relationship between pediatric oncologists, patients and parents may be problematic for voluntary informed consent, this is not necessarily the case. Moreover, the involvement of treating physicians may even have a positive impact on the informed consent process. Although we studied pediatric oncology, our results may also apply to many other fields of pediatric medicine where research and care are combined, for example, pediatric rheumatology, neurology and nephrology. Clinical trials in these fields are inevitably often designed, initiated and conducted by medical specialists closely involved in patient care.
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Unguru Y. Ethical Challenges in Early-Phase Pediatric Research for Life-Limiting Illness. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2015; 22:177-86. [PMID: 26358428 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Research with children is necessary to assure more effective treatments and potential cures of childhood illnesses. Ethical conduct of research requires minimizing the inherent risks of research, especially when it involves vulnerable populations such as children. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive and fatal disease with no Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment. Clinical trials investigating so-called gene therapies are viewed by many in the DMD community with great promise. The goal of research is to secure generalizable knowledge and not directly benefit patients, yet many parents of boys with DMD hope, and even expect, that their sons will derive medical benefit by participating in early-phase "gene therapy" trials, raising concern for the therapeutic misconception. Physician-investigators must assist patient-subjects to distinguish realistic from unrealistic hope while maintaining reasonable expectations. In this article, I examine the therapeutic misconception and related concepts as framed within the context of "gene therapy" for DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoram Unguru
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, The Herman and Walter Samuelson Children's Hospital at Sinai, Baltimore, MD; Johns Hopkins University, Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, MD.
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Aristizabal P, Singer J, Cooper R, Wells KJ, Nodora J, Milburn M, Gahagan S, Schiff DE, Martinez ME. Participation in pediatric oncology research protocols: Racial/ethnic, language and age-based disparities. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015; 62:1337-44. [PMID: 25755225 PMCID: PMC4482802 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.25472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Survival rates in pediatric oncology have improved dramatically, in part due to high patient participation in clinical trials. Although racial/ethnic inequalities in clinical trial participation have been reported in adults, pediatric data and studies comparing participation rates by socio-demographic characteristics are scarce. The goal of this study was to assess differences in research protocol participation for childhood cancer by age, sex, race/ethnicity, parental language, cancer type, and insurance status. PROCEDURE Data on enrollment in any protocol, biospecimen, or therapeutic protocols were collected and analyzed for newly diagnosed pediatric patients with cancer from 2008-2012 at Rady Children's Hospital. RESULTS Among the 353 patients included in the analysis, 304 (86.1%) were enrolled in any protocol. Enrollment in biospecimen and therapeutic protocols was 84.2% (261/310) and 81.1% (206/254), respectively. Logistic regression analyzes revealed significant enrollment underrepresentation in any protocol for Hispanics compared to Non-Hispanic whites (81% vs. 91%; Odds Ratio [OR], 0.43; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 0.21-0.90; P = 0.021) and among children of Spanish-speaking vs. English-speaking parents (78% vs. 89%; OR, 0.45; 95%CI, 0.23-0.87; P = 0.016). Compared to patients aged 0-4 years, significant underrepresentation was also found among patients 15-21 years old (92% vs.72%; OR, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.09-0.48; P < 0.001). Similar trends were observed when analyzing enrollment in biospecimen and therapeutic protocols separately. CONCLUSIONS There was significant underrepresentation in protocol participation for Hispanics, children of Spanish-speaking parents, and patients ages 15-21. Research is needed to understand barriers to research participation among these groups underrepresented in pediatric oncology clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Aristizabal
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, San Diego, CA,Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Jenelle Singer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Renee Cooper
- Graduate School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA
| | - Kristen J. Wells
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA,Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Jesse Nodora
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA,Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Mehrzad Milburn
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Sheila Gahagan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Deborah E. Schiff
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA,Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Maria Elena Martinez
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA,Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
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Synnot A, Ryan R, Prictor M, Fetherstonhaugh D, Parker B. Audio-visual presentation of information for informed consent for participation in clinical trials. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014; 2014:CD003717. [PMID: 24809816 PMCID: PMC6599866 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003717.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Informed consent is a critical component of clinical research. Different methods of presenting information to potential participants of clinical trials may improve the informed consent process. Audio-visual interventions (presented, for example, on the Internet or on DVD) are one such method. We updated a 2008 review of the effects of these interventions for informed consent for trial participation. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of audio-visual information interventions regarding informed consent compared with standard information or placebo audio-visual interventions regarding informed consent for potential clinical trial participants, in terms of their understanding, satisfaction, willingness to participate, and anxiety or other psychological distress. SEARCH METHODS We searched: the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), The Cochrane Library, issue 6, 2012; MEDLINE (OvidSP) (1946 to 13 June 2012); EMBASE (OvidSP) (1947 to 12 June 2012); PsycINFO (OvidSP) (1806 to June week 1 2012); CINAHL (EbscoHOST) (1981 to 27 June 2012); Current Contents (OvidSP) (1993 Week 27 to 2012 Week 26); and ERIC (Proquest) (searched 27 June 2012). We also searched reference lists of included studies and relevant review articles, and contacted study authors and experts. There were no language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing audio-visual information alone, or in conjunction with standard forms of information provision (such as written or verbal information), with standard forms of information provision or placebo audio-visual information, in the informed consent process for clinical trials. Trials involved individuals or their guardians asked to consider participating in a real or hypothetical clinical study. (In the earlier version of this review we only included studies evaluating informed consent interventions for real studies). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently assessed studies for inclusion and extracted data. We synthesised the findings using meta-analysis, where possible, and narrative synthesis of results. We assessed the risk of bias of individual studies and considered the impact of the quality of the overall evidence on the strength of the results. MAIN RESULTS We included 16 studies involving data from 1884 participants. Nine studies included participants considering real clinical trials, and eight included participants considering hypothetical clinical trials, with one including both. All studies were conducted in high-income countries.There is still much uncertainty about the effect of audio-visual informed consent interventions on a range of patient outcomes. However, when considered across comparisons, we found low to very low quality evidence that such interventions may slightly improve knowledge or understanding of the parent trial, but may make little or no difference to rate of participation or willingness to participate. Audio-visual presentation of informed consent may improve participant satisfaction with the consent information provided. However its effect on satisfaction with other aspects of the process is not clear. There is insufficient evidence to draw conclusions about anxiety arising from audio-visual informed consent. We found conflicting, very low quality evidence about whether audio-visual interventions took more or less time to administer. No study measured researcher satisfaction with the informed consent process, nor ease of use.The evidence from real clinical trials was rated as low quality for most outcomes, and for hypothetical studies, very low. We note, however, that this was in large part due to poor study reporting, the hypothetical nature of some studies and low participant numbers, rather than inconsistent results between studies or confirmed poor trial quality. We do not believe that any studies were funded by organisations with a vested interest in the results. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The value of audio-visual interventions as a tool for helping to enhance the informed consent process for people considering participating in clinical trials remains largely unclear, although trends are emerging with regard to improvements in knowledge and satisfaction. Many relevant outcomes have not been evaluated in randomised trials. Triallists should continue to explore innovative methods of providing information to potential trial participants during the informed consent process, mindful of the range of outcomes that the intervention should be designed to achieve, and balancing the resource implications of intervention development and delivery against the purported benefits of any intervention.More trials, adhering to CONSORT standards, and conducted in settings and populations underserved in this review, i.e. low- and middle-income countries and people with low literacy, would strengthen the results of this review and broaden its applicability. Assessing process measures, such as time taken to administer the intervention and researcher satisfaction, would inform the implementation of audio-visual consent materials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Megan Prictor
- School of Public Health and Human Biosciences, La Trobe UniversityCochrane Consumers and Communication Review GroupBundooraAustralia3086
| | - Deirdre Fetherstonhaugh
- La Trobe UniversityAustralian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care (ACEBAC)BundooraAustralia3086
| | - Barbara Parker
- La Trobe UniversityAustralian Institute for Primary Care & Ageing, Faculty of Health SciencesBundooraAustralia3086
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Scherer DG, Brody JL, Annett RD, Turner C, Dalen J, Yoon Y. Empirically-derived Knowledge on Adolescent Assent to Pediatric Biomedical Research. AJOB PRIMARY RESEARCH 2013; 4:15-26. [PMID: 23914304 PMCID: PMC3728675 DOI: 10.1080/21507716.2013.806967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been a recent growth in empirical research on assent with pediatric populations, due in part, to the demand for increased participation of this population in biomedical research. Despite methodological limitations, studies of adolescent capacities to assent have advanced and identified a number of salient psychological and social variables that are key to understanding assent. METHODS The authors review a subsection of the empirical literature on adolescent assent focusing primarily on asthma and cancer therapeutic research; adolescent competencies to assent to these studies; perceptions of protocol risk and benefit; the affects of various social context variables on adolescent research participation decision making; and the inter-relatedness of these psychological and social factors. RESULTS Contemporary studies of assent, using multivariate methods and updated approaches to statistical modeling, have revealed the importance of studying the intercorrelation between adolescents' psychological capacities and their ability to employ these capacities in family and medical decision-making contexts. Understanding these dynamic relationships will enable researchers and ethicists to develop assent procedures that respect the authority of parents, while at the same time accord adolescents appropriate decision-making autonomy. CONCLUSIONS Reviews of empirical literature on the assent process reveal that adolescents possess varying capacities for biomedical research participation decision making depending on their maturity and the social context in which the decision is made. The relationship between adolescents and physician-investigators can be used to attenuate concerns about research protocols and clarify risk and benefit information so adolescents, in concert with their families, can make the most informed and ethical decisions. Future assent researchers will be better able to navigate the complicated interplay of contextual and developmental factors and develop the empirical bases for research enrollment protocols that will support increased involvement of adolescents in biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G. Scherer
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 610 Tobin Hall, 135 Hicks Way, Amherst, MA 01003
| | - Janet L. Brody
- Center for Family and Adolescent Research, Oregon Research Institute
| | - Robert D. Annett
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center
| | - Charles Turner
- Center for Family and Adolescent Research, Oregon Research Institute
| | - Jeanne Dalen
- Center for Family and Adolescent Research, Oregon Research Institute
| | - Yesel Yoon
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Amherst
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Abstract
Childhood cancer requires families to deal with many stressors, including decision making in terms of their child's treatment. Adding to the stress of families is that most children participate in clinical research trials. Minimal research has been done to explore parents' decisions related to involving their child in childhood cancer clinical trials. Especially missing is a description of Canadian parents' perspectives. This article describes a qualitative study that sought to understand Canadian parents' participation in decisions about childhood cancer clinical trials. Person-centered, individual, open-ended interviews were conducted with 31 parents of children with cancer. The parents ranged in age between 27 and 51 years. Data analyzed by the constant comparative method revealed that parents found their participation in decisions about childhood cancer clinical trials as a difficult and extraordinary experience that included 6 themes: (1) living a surreal event, (2) wanting the best for my child, (3) helping future families of children with cancer, (4) coming to terms with my decision, (5) making one decision among many, and (6) experiencing a sense of trust. This study indicates that parents need more support not only during the initial decision-making period but also throughout the entire time their child is enrolled in a clinical trial.
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Yap TY, Yamokoski AD, Hizlan S, Zyzanski SJ, Angiolillo AL, Rheingold SR, Baker JN, Kodish ED. Informed consent for pediatric phase 1 cancer trials: physicians' perspectives. Cancer 2010; 116:3244-50. [PMID: 20564626 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.25158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was conducted to gather pediatric oncologists' opinions about and suggestions for improvement of informed consent (IC) in pediatric phase 1 cancer trials. METHODS A questionnaire designed to elicit perspectives was distributed to 146 physicians at 6 participating institutions. A total of 103 completed surveys were returned for a 71% response rate. RESULTS Pediatric oncologists believe providing information so families can decide about phase 1 study entry is the most important goal of the IC process (ICP). The majority of physicians (64%) report that they describe the phase 1 study without any attempt to influence parents' decisions. Several answers provided by physicians were associated with their gender and prior IC training. Male physicians were significantly more likely to endorse the no-attempt-to-influence approach, whereas female physicians were more likely to suggest to parents that other children will benefit from what is learned in phase 1 studies. Responses to an open-ended question provided 63 suggestions for improvement of the ICP, including document and training changes and tools to enhance physician-family communication. CONCLUSIONS Pediatric oncologists tended to present phase 1 trials as an option rather than a strong recommendation and were reluctant to influence decisions of families about these studies. They believe most but not all parents understand key concepts involved in consent to this type of research, and had ample suggestions for how to improve the ICP. Future research and education efforts around this ethically challenging topic were warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsiao Yi Yap
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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20
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Young AJ, Kim L, Baker JN, Schmidt M, Camp JW, Barfield RC. Agency and communication challenges in discussions of informed consent in pediatric cancer research. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2010; 20:628-643. [PMID: 20154295 DOI: 10.1177/1049732310361467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
In this article we examine the discourse of four focus groups we conducted at a pediatric research hospital in which we queried teenage patients, parents, nurses, and physicians about their perceptions of the informed consent process in research. Autonomy, as the goal of informed consent, is a murky concept, with some ethicists questioning the possibility that it can ever be attained. We argue that it might be more productive to consider agency, which we define as language and action that are constructed, negotiated, and maintained through effective communication. Our goal was to understand how individuals rhetorically constructed agency in discussions of informed consent experiences. After transcribing and coding the focus group interviews, we identified six aspects of agency in participants' discourse: (a) defining roles, (b) seeking information, (c) providing information, (d) supporting others, (e) making decisions, and (f) claiming agency for self. Examining these aspects of agency indicated that efforts to improve the informed consent process must address: (a) status differentials, (b) role definitions, (c) information flow, and (d) relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Young
- Department of Communication, 143 Theatre and Communication, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN 38152, USA.
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21
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Unguru Y, Sill AM, Kamani N. The experiences of children enrolled in pediatric oncology research: implications for assent. Pediatrics 2010; 125:e876-83. [PMID: 20351001 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2008-3429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most children with cancer enroll in clinical research trials. Whenever possible, children must provide their assent before enrolling in research studies. We studied what children aged 7 to 18 with cancer understand about research, their research-related treatment, and their preferences for inclusion in decision-making. PROCEDURE Thirty-seven face-to-face, audiorecorded interviews using a novel, semi-structured tool, the quality-of-assent instrument, were conducted. Exploratory univariate and bivariate analyses of the quantitative data elucidated patterns and trends of understanding and preferences. RESULTS Nineteen of the 37 children (51%) did not know or recall that their treatment was considered research, and 19 of 22 (86%) did not understand their doctor when he or she discussed the trial. More children enrolled in trials to help future children with cancer (27 of 37 [73%]), than to get better personally (22 of 37 [60%]). Irrespective of age, children with Hodgkin's disease, germ-cell tumors, and leukemia had significantly greater research awareness and appreciation than children with other cancers (P = .019 and P < .001, respectively). Although all children wanted to be involved in decision-making, 18 of 37 (49%) did not have or recall having a role in deciding to enroll in their trial, and 14 of 37 (38%) did not feel free to dissent to trial enrollment. Only 4 of 37 children (11%) discussed increased decision-making roles with parents, and only 7 of 37 (19%) discussed them with their doctors. CONCLUSIONS Most children have limited understanding of research despite physicians' explanations. Many children reported that they feel minimally involved in the decision to enroll in clinical trials. Tools to assist investigators ascertain that children understand what they are agreeing to when they assent to research and to determine their preferences for inclusion in research may help make assent more meaningful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoram Unguru
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Herman and Walter Samuelson Children's Hospital at Sinai, 2401 W Belvedere Ave, Baltimore, MD 21215-5271, USA.
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Whose future is it? Ethical family decision making about daughters' treatment in the oncofertility context. Cancer Treat Res 2010; 156:429-45. [PMID: 20811853 PMCID: PMC3086488 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-6518-9_33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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Yap TY, Yamokoski A, Noll R, Drotar D, Zyzanski S, Kodish ED. A physician-directed intervention: teaching and measuring better informed consent. ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2009; 84:1036-1042. [PMID: 19638769 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0b013e3181acfbcd] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To improve physician communication with parents using a physician-directed intervention (PDI), emphasizing a sequenced approach to the informed consent conference (ICC) for childhood leukemia clinical trials in which physicians discuss diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment prior to the offer of a clinical trial. METHOD Physicians and fellows at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Children's National Medical Center were recruited to participate in Informed Consent Seminars and subsequent half-day booster sessions. Training was followed by a multisite study of informed consent communication. Real-life ICCs were observed and audiotaped, and parents were interviewed after the ICC to ascertain their understanding. Data from the ICC and interview were then coded and analyzed. Trained physician performances were compared with untrained physicians (controls) at two other research sites. Data were collected from 2003 to 2007 at PDI sites and control sites for comparison. RESULTS A total of 102 cases were included for initial analyses, with 60 cases from the PDI sites and 42 control cases. Fifty-nine cases were included in the final analysis. Findings revealed that trained physicians followed the sequenced approach more often when compared with controls. Similarly, physicians at the PDI sites tended to elicit parental questions and understanding in an open-ended way and clarify parents' questions more frequently than physicians at the control sites. CONCLUSIONS Academic physicians who are involved in the current transformation of clinical research should be trained to conduct effective ICCs. The "see one, do one, teach one" approach is no longer adequate for informed consent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsiao Yi Yap
- Children's Hospital Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA
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Pritchard-Jones K, Dixon-Woods M, Naafs-Wilstra M, Valsecchi MG. Improving recruitment to clinical trials for cancer in childhood. Lancet Oncol 2008; 9:392-9. [DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(08)70101-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Chang A. An exploratory survey of nurses' perceptions of phase I clinical trials in pediatric oncology. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs 2008; 25:14-23. [PMID: 18187597 DOI: 10.1177/1043454207311742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study suggests that nurses' perceptions of pediatric oncology phase I clinical trials are diverse and mixed but are more likely to be positive than negative. Improving future treatments, medical benefit, improved quality of life, and hope were cited as potential benefits of phase I clinical trials, but nurses felt that families were hoping for a cure. Toxicities, false hope, and decreased quality of life were perceived as potential negative outcomes. Acting as a patient advocate was viewed as the most important nursing role, and providing information was identified to be the most important purpose of informed consent. Although not statistically significant, data suggest that age, experience, and practice setting may influence nurses' perceptions. Younger or less experienced nurses were more likely to report either positive or negative perceptions, whereas older or more experienced nurses expressed mixed or moderate perceptions. Inpatient nurses reported more negative perceptions compared with outpatient nurses. The respondents report that caring for patients on phase I had both positive and negative effects on their quality of nursing work life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Chang
- Haematology/Oncology/BMT/Immunology at The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Yamokoski AD, Hazen RA, Kodish ED. Anticipatory Guidance to Improve Informed Consent: A New Application of the Concept. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs 2008; 25:34-43. [DOI: 10.1177/1043454207311916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the concept of anticipatory guidance has long been used in general pediatrics to help prepare parents for what to expect in the coming months or year, this educational concept has not been transplanted for use in other contexts. The intervention described in this article uses the principles of anticipatory guidance in an effort to prepare parents of children with newly diagnosed acute leukemia for their upcoming discussions with their child's physician. Parents of children recently diagnosed with leukemia frequently feel overwhelmed and are anxious to discover what can be done to cure their child. By using the abilities of already medically trained oncology nurses and orienting them to conduct an intervention to educate, empathize, and prepare parents for the informed consent conference, this anticipatory guidance-based intervention was designed to target barriers to effective communication and increase the interactivity between families and health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rebecca A. Hazen
- Division of Behavioral Pediatrics & Psychology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Eric D. Kodish
- Department of Bioethics and a professor of pediatrics, Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland Clinic, Department of Bioethics, Cleveland, Ohio
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Abstract
Physician-investigators are required to obtain informed consent from adult participants in their studies. Inclusion of children in research legally requires informed permission of a child's parent or guardian. It is increasingly recognized that a child need not assume a passive role when included in research, but that his or her active involvement should be sought, as expressed by the child's assent to partake in clinical research. This article briefly explores the history of assent and the central role of assessing a child's understanding of research and preference for participating in decisions related to their care, as necessary components of meaningful assent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoram Unguru
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010-2970, USA.
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Ryan RE, Prictor MJ, McLaughlin KJ, Hill SJ. Audio-visual presentation of information for informed consent for participation in clinical trials. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2008:CD003717. [PMID: 18254029 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003717.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Informed consent is a critical component of clinical research. Different methods of presenting information to potential participants of clinical trials may improve the informed consent process. Audio-visual interventions (presented for example on the Internet, DVD, or video cassette) are one such method. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of providing audio-visual information alone, or in conjunction with standard forms of information provision, to potential clinical trial participants in the informed consent process, in terms of their satisfaction, understanding and recall of information about the study, level of anxiety and their decision whether or not to participate. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched: the Cochrane Consumers and Communication Review Group Specialised Register (searched 20 June 2006); the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), The Cochrane Library, issue 2, 2006; MEDLINE (Ovid) (1966 to June week 1 2006); EMBASE (Ovid) (1988 to 2006 week 24); and other databases. We also searched reference lists of included studies and relevant review articles, and contacted study authors and experts. There were no language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing audio-visual information alone, or in conjunction with standard forms of information provision (such as written or oral information as usually employed in the particular service setting), with standard forms of information provision alone, in the informed consent process for clinical trials. Trials involved individuals or their guardians asked to participate in a real (not hypothetical) clinical study. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently assessed studies for inclusion and extracted data. Due to heterogeneity no meta-analysis was possible; we present the findings in a narrative review. MAIN RESULTS We included 4 trials involving data from 511 people. Studies were set in the USA and Canada. Three were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and the fourth a quasi-randomised trial. Their quality was mixed and results should be interpreted with caution. Considerable uncertainty remains about the effects of audio-visual interventions, compared with standard forms of information provision (such as written or oral information normally used in the particular setting), for use in the process of obtaining informed consent for clinical trials. Audio-visual interventions did not consistently increase participants' levels of knowledge/understanding (assessed in four studies), although one study showed better retention of knowledge amongst intervention recipients. An audio-visual intervention may transiently increase people's willingness to participate in trials (one study), but this was not sustained at two to four weeks post-intervention. Perceived worth of the trial did not appear to be influenced by an audio-visual intervention (one study), but another study suggested that the quality of information disclosed may be enhanced by an audio-visual intervention. Many relevant outcomes including harms were not measured. The heterogeneity in results may reflect the differences in intervention design, content and delivery, the populations studied and the diverse methods of outcome assessment in included studies. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The value of audio-visual interventions for people considering participating in clinical trials remains unclear. Evidence is mixed as to whether audio-visual interventions enhance people's knowledge of the trial they are considering entering, and/or the health condition the trial is designed to address; one study showed improved retention of knowledge amongst intervention recipients. The intervention may also have small positive effects on the quality of information disclosed, and may increase willingness to participate in the short-term; however the evidence is weak. There were no data for several primary outcomes, including harms. In the absence of clear results, triallists should continue to explore innovative methods of providing information to potential trial participants. Further research should take the form of high-quality randomised controlled trials, with clear reporting of methods. Studies should conduct content assessment of audio-visual and other innovative interventions for people of differing levels of understanding and education; also for different age and cultural groups. Researchers should assess systematically the effects of different intervention components and delivery characteristics, and should involve consumers in intervention development. Studies should assess additional outcomes relevant to individuals' decisional capacity, using validated tools, including satisfaction; anxiety; and adherence to the subsequent trial protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Ryan
- Australian Institute for Primary Care, La Trobe University, Cochrane Consumers & Communication Review Group, Bundoora, VIC, Australia, 3086.
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Eder ML, Yamokoski AD, Wittmann PW, Kodish ED. Improving informed consent: suggestions from parents of children with leukemia. Pediatrics 2007; 119:e849-59. [PMID: 17403829 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2006-2208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to report suggestions for improving the informed consent process from the perspective of parents of children with leukemia. METHODS Recommendations for improving informed consent were elicited from 140 parents of children who had been offered participation in a randomized clinical trial for the treatment of their acute leukemia. Four different methods and data collection time points were used with this group of parents, including open-ended, in-person interviews within 72 hours after the informed consent conference; follow-up telephone interviews 6 months after diagnosis; focus groups during year 3 of the project; and a parent advisory group on informed consent meeting in year 4. RESULTS The most frequently cited suggestions for improving informed consent during the interviews and focus groups related to giving parents more time to make their decision, the amount and type of information provided, organization of the consent conference, communication style, and providing additional materials. During the parent advisory group on informed consent meeting, parents developed specific guidelines for organization of the information that is presented during the consent process that include 7 major components: timing, sequence, checklist, checking for understanding, anticipatory guidance, segue into randomized clinical trial discussion with historical perspective, and choice. CONCLUSIONS Through the incorporation of parental perspectives that provide an authentic stakeholder voice, our research represents a true partnership approach to improving the consent process. Parents provided practical advice for improving informed consent that can be applied to most adult and pediatric patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Eder
- Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Abstract
AIMS To assess parental understanding and memorisation of the information given when seeking for consent to their child's participation to clinical research, and to identify the factors of significant influence on parents' decision making process. METHODS Sixty eight parents who had been approached for enrolling their child in a clinical oncology or HIV study were asked to complete an interview. Their understanding was measured by a score which included items required to obtain a valid consent according to French legislation. RESULTS Items that were best understood by parents were the aims of the study (75%), the risks (70%), the potential benefits to their child (83%), the potential benefits to other children (70%), the right to withdraw (73%), and voluntariness (84%). Items that were least understood were the procedures (44%), the possibility of alternative treatments (53%), and the duration of participation (39%). Less than 10% of the parents had understood all these points. Ten parents (15%) did not remember that they had signed up for a research protocol. Thirty three parents (48%) reported no difficulty in making their decision. Twenty four parents (38%) declared that they made their decision together with the investigator; 26 (41%) let the physician decide. Fifty four parents (78%) felt that the level of information given was satisfactory. CONCLUSION There was an apparent discrepancy between parents' evaluation of the adequacy of the information delivered and evaluation of their understanding and memorisation. The majority of parents preferred that the physician take as much responsibility as possible in the decision making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Chappuy
- Département d'Urgences Pédiatriques, Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades Faculté de Médecine René Descartes, Paris, France.
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Miller VA, Drotar D, Burant C, Kodish E. Clinician-parent communication during informed consent for pediatric leukemia trials. J Pediatr Psychol 2005; 30:219-29. [PMID: 15784918 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsi032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To address the need to describe informed consent in pediatric settings and to identify barriers to parent understanding, this study assessed how aspects of clinician-parent communication during the informed consent conference (ICC) relate to parent understanding of informed consent and parent perception of the impact of the ICC on their anxiety and control. METHODS Parents of 127 children with newly diagnosed leukemia who were eligible for clinical trials were the participants. The study used comprehensive methods including both observational and self-report assessment methods. RESULTS Structural equation modeling demonstrated that parent race and socioeconomic status (SES) were powerful predictors of clinician-parent communication, parent anxiety and control as a result of the ICC, and parent understanding. Clinician information giving and partnership building predicted parent participation during the ICC. CONCLUSIONS These findings may be used to design interventions that increase the effectiveness of the ICC by identifying specific elements of the conference that influence parent affect and understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A Miller
- Department of Psychology, Case Western Reserve University, 11220 Bellflower Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
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Abstract
CONTEXT By providing information and possibly shaping parents' preferences, health-care providers are thought to play a critical role in parental decisions to enroll their infants in research. Yet, little is known about health-care providers' beliefs about research with newborns. Previous studies suggest that parents and health-care providers are often at odds regarding attitudes towards research. OBJECTIVE To examine the attitudes of health-care providers concerning the acceptability of research with newborn babies and the degree of research-related risk to which they would be willing to expose their own infant. These findings were compared with a previous study of parental attitudes. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS A survey (pretested questionnaire with 20 scaled items and five case scenarios) of 50 doctors and 64 nurses conducted in a large tertiary care center in western Canada. RESULTS Study limitations were a response rate of 64.5% among nurses but only 22% among physicians. Both doctors and nurses were strongly supportive of research with newborns, but nurses were more averse to exposing infants to risk. Only 76.0% of nurses, compared to 92.2% of physicians, agreed that informed consent should be sought for all forms of research. When results were compared with parental perceptions, health-care providers were more likely to believe that research should be conducted for the good of all babies. Parents were generally less aware of the existence of an approval process for research in general. In responding to hypothetical scenarios with risk and direct benefit, parents were less willing to enroll their infants than were health-care providers. Approximately 30% of both groups would be willing to enroll their infants in a study involving moderate risk and no direct benefit. CONCLUSIONS Views of nurses, physicians, and parents regarding research with newborns are different. Overall, there is support for research; however, nurses are more likely to never enroll their own baby and enroll babies into minor studies without consent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nalini Singhal
- Regional Clinical Division, Neonatology, Calgary Health Region, Calgary, Alberta T2N 2T9, Canada
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Ruccione KS. Coming to terms with language. Mara Mogensen Flaherty Memorial Lecture. Oncol Nurs Forum 2004; 31:913-25. [PMID: 15378092 DOI: 10.1188/04.onf.913-925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen S Ruccione
- Health Promotion and Outcomes Program in the Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles in California, USA.
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Sharp SM, Pentz RD. Issues, both ethical and practical, in the development and conduct of chemoprevention trials. Curr Probl Cancer 2004; 28:186-200. [PMID: 15318322 DOI: 10.1016/j.currproblcancer.2004.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Drotar D, Miller V, Willard V, Anthony K, Kodish E. Correlates of Parental Participation During Informed Consent for Randomized Clinical Trials in the Treatment of Childhood Leukemia. ETHICS & BEHAVIOR 2004; 14:1-15. [PMID: 15580724 DOI: 10.1207/s15327019eb1401_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
This study described parent participation in the informed consent conference for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in childhood leukemia and documented the relationship of physician communication to parent participation. Parents of 140 children with newly diagnosed leukemia who were eligible for RCTs were studied at six sites using comprehensive methods involving direct observation and transcripts of parent-physician communication based on audiotapes. Parent participation during the informed consent conference reflected a wide range of content categories. Consistent with hypotheses, Physician Rapport and Partnership Building related to parent participation in the informed consent conference but Information Giving did not. Higher parent socioeconomic status also was related to greater parent participation for two of the three measures of parent participation. Findings suggest that physician behaviors that provide support and facilitate communication may enhance parental participation in the informed consent conference for RCTs in childhood leukemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Drotar
- Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, 1100 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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Kupst MJ, Patenaude AF, Walco GA, Sterling C. Clinical trials in pediatric cancer: parental perspectives on informed consent. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2003; 25:787-90. [PMID: 14528101 DOI: 10.1097/00043426-200310000-00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
To better understand parental perceptions of the informed consent process in pediatric oncology clinical trials, 20 parents of newly diagnosed children at two pediatric cancer centers described their perceptions in a semi-structured interview. They recalled well the diagnosis, the general treatment plan, and the statistics of survival and/or cure, but the research nature of the clinical trials, particularly randomization, was not well understood. However, despite the need to assimilate a great deal of information, time pressure to make decisions, and reportedly high levels of distress during the discussions, parents expressed general satisfaction with the informed consent discussions with their pediatric oncology providers. However, half to two thirds of parents felt there had been inadequate discussion of alternatives to the proposed treatment and of the research nature of the protocol. While further study of the informed consent process should be conducted in larger, representative samples, the findings from this pilot study suggest that a goal of future informed consent interventions should be to improve parents' understanding of the research aspects of treatment. It is critical to parents' ability to provide informed consent that they feel satisfied that they know alternatives to proposed treatment and that they understand the randomization of treatments, which is the gold standard of clinical trials in pediatric oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Jo Kupst
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin and Midwest Children's Cancer Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226, USA.
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Simon C, Zyzanski SJ, Eder M, Raiz P, Kodish ED, Siminoff LA. Groups potentially at risk for making poorly informed decisions about entry into clinical trials for childhood cancer. J Clin Oncol 2003; 21:2173-8. [PMID: 12775743 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2003.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Some patients may be at greater risk than others of enrolling on a randomized clinical trial (RCT) without fully understanding the implications. To investigate this possibility, this study poses the question, Do non-English-speaking Latino parents of children with leukemia show differences in their discussion of and understanding of an RCT when compared with English-speaking minority parents and with English-speaking majority (ie, white) parents? This research hypothesizes that factors such as social and educational status and the role of language interpreters may account for significant differences in the discussion and understanding of an RCT among the three groups. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 108 parents are reported on, all of whom were observed, interviewed, and audiotaped during informed-consent discussions about participation in an RCT with their child's oncologist. Comparisons among the groups were performed using chi2 tests and a one-way analysis of variance. RESULTS Problems of consent-related communication and understanding were more frequent among parents of low social status who spoke little or no English than they were in the two other groups. Several factors may have contributed to this disparity, including language interpretation, social status, and prevailing cultural norms. CONCLUSION Some patients may be at greater risk than others of enrolling on an RCT without fully understanding the implications of their decision to do so. Numerous factors may contribute to this disparity, including language interpretation, social status, and prevailing cultural norms. Some specific strategies are suggested to help address this disparity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Simon
- Rainbow Center for Pediatric Ethics, Department of Pediatrics, and Rainbow Babies' and Children's Hospital of University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Joffe S, Weeks JC. RESPONSE: Re: Views of American Oncologists About the Purposes of Clinical Trials. J Natl Cancer Inst 2003. [DOI: 10.1093/jnci/95.8.631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Joffe S, Weeks JC. Views of American oncologists about the purposes of clinical trials. J Natl Cancer Inst 2002; 94:1847-53. [PMID: 12488478 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/94.24.1847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many research subjects believe incorrectly that the primary purpose of clinical trials is to benefit the participants rather than to improve therapy for future patients. However, few data are available about how physicians view trials. METHODS We mailed surveys to a stratified random sample (n = 1120) of U.S. medical, pediatric, and other oncology specialists who were selected from the American Society of Clinical Oncology Membership Directory. Respondents were asked to select, from a list of options, their reasons for enrolling individual patients in trials and what they thought the main societal purposes of clinical trials are. We used logistic regression models to evaluate which demographic and clinical practice characteristics were associated with responses to these questions. All statistical tests were two-sided. RESULTS Of the 547 physicians (48.8%) who responded, 40.5% of the medical oncologists, 32.3% of the pediatric oncologists, and 62.6% of the other oncology subspecialists reported enrolling individual patients in clinical trials to improve future therapy. Most of the other respondents reported enrolling patients to ensure that they received state-of-the-art treatment. When asked about the main societal purpose of clinical trials, 72.7% of the medical oncologists, 59.4% of the pediatric oncologists, and 81.9% of the other oncology subspecialists cited improving future therapy; most of the other respondents cited ensuring state-of-the-art treatment for participants. In multivariable analysis, medical oncologists (odds ratio [OR] = 0.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.3 to 0.9) and pediatric oncologists (OR = 0.3, 95% CI = 0.2 to 0.5) were less likely than other oncologists to identify improving future therapy as the main societal purpose of clinical trials, whereas industry physicians (OR = 4.6, 95% CI = 1.1 to 20.5) chose this option more often than physicians who did not work for industry. CONCLUSIONS Many respondents viewed the main societal purpose of clinical trials as benefiting the participants rather than as creating generalizable knowledge to advance future therapy. This view, which was more prevalent among specialists such as pediatric oncologists that enrolled greater proportions of patients in trials, conflicts with established principles of research ethics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Joffe
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Olechnowicz JQ, Eder M, Simon C, Zyzanski S, Kodish E. Assent observed: children's involvement in leukemia treatment and research discussions. Pediatrics 2002; 109:806-14. [PMID: 11986440 DOI: 10.1542/peds.109.5.806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assent is a critical issue in pediatric ethics that has not been well-studied. We examined the role of older children in discussing a recent diagnosis of acute leukemia and treatment options, including participation in a randomized, clinical trial (RCT). DESIGN Our sample was drawn from data collected as part of a larger, National Cancer Institute-funded study in which we observed, tape-recorded, and transcribed the informed consent conference (ICC) for children with leukemia at 6 institutions. We analyzed the data for the child's presence and role, examined 5 discussion categories relevant to assent in the context of pediatric cancer treatment/research, conducted parent interviews, and administered clinician questionnaires to examine these issues. We report a qualitative analysis of 14 cases in which the child was present for the ICC. RESULTS Clinicians varied with regard to whom they directed specific discussions when patients were present. Questions asked by the children predominantly related to details of the disease and treatment, with few questions about the RCT. Clinicians and parents attribute responsibility for decision-making about participation in RCTs in a variety of ways. In conferences that included the child-patient, parents asked significantly fewer questions than in other ICCs. CONCLUSION There is significant variation among ICCs that include the older child. Additional empirical study of assent is warranted, and our data suggest several hypotheses that should be tested in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Quinn Olechnowicz
- Rainbow Center for Pediatric Ethics, Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital of University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA
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