Clinical trials: Predictors of knowledge and attitudes towards participation

Abstract

Aims: Clinical trials (CTs) are critical to advancing of patient care. Understanding the public's knowledge and the attitudes towards participating in CTs is important for their successful implication. In Jordan this data are currently not available. The present study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitude and perception of Jordanians towards CTs participation.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1216 Jordanians recruited from public hospitals and pharmaceutical research centres.

Results: About 20.5% of the respondents have previously participated in a CT. About 68.3% and 50.1% had good knowledge and positive attitude towards CTs, respectively. Good knowledge was associated with male gender (OR = 1.696, 95% CI = 1.284-0.240, P < .001), higher education (OR = 1.433, 95% CI = 1.107-1.856, P = .006) and healthy condition (OR = 1.822, 95% CI = 1.234-2.690, P = .003); while older age was associated with a poor knowledge (OR = 0.985, 95% CI = 0.972-0.998, P = .026). Female gender (OR = 1.817, 95% CI = 1.406-2.349, P < .001), higher education (OR = 1.294, 95% CI = 1.017-1.646, P = .036) and previous participation (OR = 1.919, 95% CI = 1.388-2.653, P < .001) were factors predicting the positive attitudes. A very weak positive correlation was found between knowledge and attitude (Spearman's r = 0.074, P = .01). Regarding perceptions, most of the respondents (85.3%) perceive that CTs are conducted in an ethical manner in Jordan, only 52.9% however feel comfortable towards participation. A moderate positive correlation was found between knowledge and perception (Spearman's r = 0.275, P < .001). Taking part in a CT significantly affect knowledge, attitudes and perceptions.

Conclusions: This study revealed important insights regarding knowledge, attitudes and perception of Jordanians towards CTs. Educational interventions can improve awareness of the ethical standards under which CTs are conducted affecting the perception to participate. Promotion of CTs among patients and healthy individuals is needed to increase participation.