Enrolment of older adults with cancer in early phase clinical trials—an observational study on the experience in the north west of England

• DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afab091
• Publication Date: 2021-05-10T11:46:22Z
• Authors: Fabio Gomes; Tine Descamps; Jessica Lowe; Martin Little; Rosie Lauste; Matthew G Krebs; Donna Graham; Fiona Thistlethwaite; Louise Carter; Natalie Cook
• Keywords: Clinical endpoint

older patients represent the majority of cancer but are under-represented in trials, particularly early phase clinical trials (EPCTs).observational retrospective study referred for EPCTs (January-December 2018) at a specialist centre UK. The primary aim was to analyse successful enrolment into according age (<65/65+). secondary aims were identify obstacles and outcomes enrolled patients. Patient data analysed at: referral; in-clinic assessment after enrolment. Among assessed clinic, sample defined by randomly matching cohort with younger (1:1) tumour type.555 median 60 years, whom 471 new patient clinics (38% 65+). From those assessed, tumour-matched 318 (159 per cohort) selected. Older had significantly higher comorbidity score measured ACE-27 (P < 0.0001), lived closer hospital = 0.045) later point their management 0.002). There no difference suitability overall 84% deemed suitable. For successfully EPCTs, there between cohorts (20.1 vs. 22.6% older, respectively; P 0.675) significant differences safety efficacy outcomes.older did not affect EPCTs. However, selected minority suggests pre-selection upstream oncologists.