Perceptions and referral trends into phase i oncology trials: Results of a clinical survey

Introduction. A survey was sent to referring oncologists (ROs) to explore the reasons behind their referral patterns and perceptions of Phase I studies before and after being provided with outcome data from advanced colorectal cancer (ACRC) patients who participated in Phase I trials at the Royal Marsden Hospital (RMH). Results. The response rate was 32/50 (64). The most common reason for referral was exhaustion of standard treatments (31), and the main reason for referring to the RMH was proximity to patients (28). The most frequent clinical parameter assessed prior to referral was performance status (93). ROs spent a median of 15min (range: 5-45min) discussing general aspects of Phase I trials. In the second part of the questionnaire, after reviewing clinical outcome data of ACRC patients who participated in Phase I trials, 47 would change their approach, specifically, spend more time to discuss risks and benefits of Phase I trials (9), consider prognostic factors before referral (13), and increase the number of referrals (25). Conclusion. This is the first report focusing on communication between ROs and a specialist Phase I unit. Outcome reporting can improve communication with ROs and importantly has the potential for better patient selection considered for Phase I oncology trials.