A primer for cancer research programs on defining and evaluating the catchment area and evaluating minority clinical trials recruitment

Adv Cancer Res. 2020:146:219-226. doi: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.02.001. Epub 2020 Mar 14.

Abstract

National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated cancer centers are charged with reducing disparities, improving cancer-related health outcomes, and increasing clinical trial participation for the catchment area population. Succeeding in this endeavor requires a clear definition of each cancer center's geographic catchment area as well as the demographic characteristics of the populations residing in the catchment area. For this reason, the definition of the catchment area is now a required element of NCI grant applications. This primer provides detailed information related to the definition of cancer centers' catchment areas and provides a case example from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to highlight best practice strategies for compiling and interpreting cancer health statistics for the catchment area.

Keywords: Catchment area; Clinical trials; Demographics; Equity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomedical Research / organization & administration
  • Biomedical Research / standards*
  • Catchment Area, Health / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Minority Groups / statistics & numerical data*
  • National Cancer Institute (U.S.)
  • Neoplasms / ethnology*
  • Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Patient Participation / statistics & numerical data*
  • United States