Expert Video - Why are some MDS patients not participating in clinical trials? What are the barriers to enrollment?

Dr. Amy DeZern, an oncologist, hematologist, and MDS clinical trialist, talks about why some patients are not participating in MDS clinical trials and what some of the barriers to enrollment could be. She acknowledges that several reasons exist, including: lack of knowledge about access and the ability to get different treatments among both patients and some providers; elderly age as a major contributing challenge to being able to commute to sites where the trials are being held; and the fear of not being kept safe or being experimented on. Despite these barriers and limitations, Dr. DeZern assures that clinical trial investigators are very aware and sensitive to these concerns and that solutions are being sought. These can range from offering additional trial centers that are closer to a patient's home, demystifying patient fears and concerns via consultations, and educating community practitioners more about clinical trial accessibility and potential for improved outcomes for MDS patients.

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