Researchers explain the importance of clinical trial navigators

Fewer than 5% cancer patients participate in research that could improve care

Since a Phase I trial has prolonged my life for almost seven years, I find it perplexing that fewer than 5 per cent of adult American cancer patients enroll in clinical studies. Why do so few people — with various stages and types of cancer — participate in research that can improve care?

One obstacle may be the baffling scaffolding scientists erect around their studies. For example, cancer is a disease of aging, but many clinical trials on cancer drugs exclude older people from participating.

One study, in The Journal of Clinical Oncology, found that older patients “are