The preferences of 600 patients for different descriptions of randomisation
2005

Patients' Preferences for Descriptions of Randomisation

Sample size: 600 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): V. Jenkins, L. Fallowfield, A. Cox

Primary Institution: Cancer Research UK Psychosocial Oncology Group, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex

Hypothesis

What descriptions of randomisation do patients prefer?

Conclusion

Patients have clear preferences for certain descriptions of randomisation, with the CancerBACUP description being the most preferred.

Supporting Evidence

  • The CancerBACUP description was preferred by 28% of patients.
  • The NCI description was disliked by 38% of patients.
  • Patients preferred descriptions that explained the process and rationale behind randomisation.

Takeaway

This study asked cancer patients what explanations of randomisation they liked best, and most preferred a clear description that explained how and why randomisation is done.

Methodology

Patients rated descriptions of randomisation for clarity and indicated their most preferred and disliked statements.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in patient responses due to the wording of descriptions.

Limitations

The study used descriptions from a previous publication, which may not reflect current patient preferences.

Participant Demographics

{"male":226,"female":337,"previous_trial_experience":169,"age_under_60":298,"age_60_and_over":273}

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.0001

Statistical Significance

p<0.0001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6602445

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