Strong Support for Expanded Cancer Clinical Trials in Canada
A new study from The Angus Reid Institute, conducted with the Canadian Cancer Society, highlights strong public demand for expanded access to cancer clinical trials across Canada. An overwhelming 90% of Canadians advocate for more opportunities, viewing these trials as a vital pathway to innovative treatments and crucial options for patients with limited alternatives.
Despite rigorous approval processes by research ethics boards and Health Canada, concerns about potential adverse effects persist. Two-thirds of Canadians (67%) express apprehension regarding side effects, and 74% hesitate to participate due to these risks and skepticism towards unproven treatments. Knowledge about clinical trials remains notably limited, with 56% having minimal awareness and only 1% having participated in one.
In Calgary, the sentiment for enhanced access resonates deeply within the medical community and among patients. Institutions like the Tom Baker Cancer Centre are at the forefront of cancer research, enrolling approximately 400 patients in clinical trials annually and contributing to numerous studies. Alberta Cancer Clinical Trials, supported by the Alberta Cancer Foundation, actively works to build an efficient and sustainable trial system to increase patient participation across the province, with significant research operations also at the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre. This ongoing dialogue underscores the importance of addressing public concerns while expanding life-changing treatment opportunities for Calgarians.
