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Lookup NU author(s): Christine May, Dr Matthew Breckons
Background: The UK leads the world in recruitment of patients to cancer clinical trials, with a six-fold increase in recruitment during 2001-2010. However, there are large variations across cancer centres. This paper details recruitment to a large multi-centre prospective cohort study and discusses lessons learnt to enhance recruitment. Methods: During CREW (ColoREctal Wellbeing) cohort study set up and recruitment, data were systematically collected on all centres that applied to participate, time from study approval to first participant recruited and the percentage of eligible patients recruited into the study. Results: 30 participating NHS cancer centres were selected through an open competition via the cancer networks. Time from study approval to first participant recruited took a median 124 days (min 53, max 290). Of 1350 eligible people in the study time frame, 78% (n = 1056) were recruited into the study, varying from 30-100% eligible across centres. Recruitment of 1056 participants took 17 months. Conclusion: In partnership with the National Cancer Research Network, this successful study prioritised relationship building and education. Key points for effective recruitment: pre-screening and selection of centres; nurses as PIs; attendance at study days; frequent communication and a reduced level of consent to enhance uptake amongst underrepresented groups.
Author(s): Fenlon D, Seymour KC, Okamoto I, Winter J, Richardson A, Addington-Hall J, Corner JL, Smith PW, May CM, Breckons M, Foster C
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: BMC Medical Research Methodology
Year: 2013
Volume: 13
Print publication date: 28/12/2013
Date deposited: 26/02/2014
ISSN (electronic): 1471-2288
Publisher: BioMed Central Ltd
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/1471-2288-13-153
DOI: 10.1186/1471-2288-13-153
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