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Attitudes of African-Americans regarding prostate cancer clinical trials

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to qualitatively assess attitudes associated with the willingness of African-Americans to participate in prostate cancer clinical trials. Fifty-six African-American males, 40 years of age and older, were recruited from South Central Los Angeles. Respondents were divided into lower or middle socio-economic groups based on education and occupation. Focus group discussions were conducted to assess their knowledge about prostate cancer and willingness to participate in prostate cancer clinical trials. In addition, information was obtained to identify their incentives and barriers toward participating in prostate cancer research. Middle socio-economic respondents expressed a greater willingness to participate in prostate cancer clinical trials than did men of lower socio-economic status. Many indicated that they would be more likely to participate if they were encouraged to do so by a physician or researcher who was viewed as being competent and compassionate. Barriers to participation in prostate cancer clinical trials included concerns about drug toxicity, medical experimentation and distrust of the medical establishment. Endeavors aimed at increasing minority representation in prostate cancer clinical studies should address these issues.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Drew/Meharry/Morehouse Consortium Cancer Center, 12714 South Avalon Boulevard, Suite 301, 90061, Los Angeles, CA

    Susan B. Robinson MD, MPH (Assistant Professors of Family Medicine), Mary Ashley RN, MPH (Assistant Professors of Family Medicine) & M. Alfred Haynes MD, MPH (President Emeritus of Drew University School of Medicine and Science)

Authors
  1. Susan B. Robinson MD, MPH
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  2. Mary Ashley RN, MPH
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  3. M. Alfred Haynes MD, MPH
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Additional information

This study was supported by a grant (CA 54603-02) from the National Cancer Institute. The authors wish to thank Susan and Elaine Bradshaw for their expert assistance with manuscript preparation.

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Robinson, S.B., Ashley, M. & Haynes, M.A. Attitudes of African-Americans regarding prostate cancer clinical trials. J Community Health 21, 77–87 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01682300

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