Systematic education and utilization of volunteer patient advocates for cancer clinical trial information dissemination at NCCTG community sites. C. Chauhan, W. Eppard; NCCTG, Rochester, MN Abstract: Background: Cancer patients are often unaware of cancer clinical trials or fearful of participation because of mistrust and misunderstanding of cancer clinical trial methods and protocols. Methods: The Patient Advocacy Committee of NCCTG has developed a five-prong approach of education and support of volunteer community patient advocates who are cancer survivors. Trained, volunteer patient advocates intervening at the individual and community level may have a positive impact on cancer clinical trials accrual. This program includes: 1) Yearly two-day training symposium; 2) Regular individual mentor telephone contact; 3) Quarterly three-hour long conference calls; 4) Co-chair community site visits; 5) Listserv membership. Member patient advocates are educated and supported in working proactively in their communities to share general information about cancer clinical trials in a non-threatening, non-coercive environment, moving people to a more positive, receptive posture. Activities of trained advocates include but are not limited to meeting with newly diagnosed patients, presentation of general clinical trials information to community service groups, and speaking to cancer support groups. Results: Currently thirty-eight cancer survivor patient advocates represent twenty-five communities in the program, demonstrating active community involvement, high community visibility, innovative educational program development, and unflagging dedication to cancer education. Conclusions: Recruitment, training, and support of an affiliated group of volunteer community patient advocates provides positive, high visibility for cancer research through group and individual education initiatives. Volunteer peer educators facilitate the movement of clinical trials into mainstream consciousness.Community and individual education by trained volunteer patient advocates enhances public awareness and understanding of the purpose and process of cancer research . Abstract No: 1031 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.