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Background: This study assessed cancer patients' knowledge and attitudes towards clinical trials (CTs). Methods: A survey was administered to 100/141 cancer outpatients. Results: 82% respondents had heard of CTs, but many could only provide limited definitions and perceived them as high risk. About half had previously been approached to participate in a trial, and 67% had agreed to participate. Factors influencing participation in trials, barriers to recruitment, and suggestions for increased recruitment in clinical trials were identified. Conclusions: The findings suggest general support of CTs. Education programs are needed to raise awareness, reduce fears, and dispel myths about CT participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The study evaluated the effectiveness of a two-day continuing education (CE) course developed to increase multidisciplinary oncology professionals' awareness of psychosocial issues and to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to identify psychosocial issues and intervene effectively. Methods. Attendees (n = 120) were asked to complete a pre- and 6-month postcourse questionnaire assessing psychosocial orientation using the Physician Belief Scale and the ability to identify psychosocial issues; they were also asked to suggest appropriate interventions based on five case vignettes. Results. Sixty-nine (56%) participants returned the precourse questionnaire, and 42 (35%) returned the postcourse questionnaire. Psychosocial orientation increased significantly from precourse to postcourse (P = .03). Based on the five case vignettes, participants were able to identify significantly more psychosocial issues (10.5 vs. 7.7, P = .005) and suggest more interventions (12.6 vs. 8.7, P < .001) 6 months following the course. Conclusions. These findings support the effectiveness of a two-day CE course to improve oncology professionals' psychosocial orientation and ability to identify psychosocial issues and interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]