The patient population using the Internet differs from the population of patients found in the clinic: Implications for online clinical matching programs. S. J. Wei, J. M. Metz, M. K. Hampshire; University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA Abstract: Background: Enrollment of adult cancer patients into clinical trials remains low. Clinical trials matching services offered through the Internet can potentially increase the rate of clinical trial enrollment. However, data describing the differences between the patient population using the Internet and the general population found in the clinic are limited. Methods: A validated questionnaire assessing basic demographics and attitudes towards clinical trials was offered to 609 patients through the OncoLink website (www.oncolink.org) and two radiation oncology clinics. The questionnaire was completed by 439 (72%) patients online and 166 (28%) patients in the clinic. Results: Online patients were more likely to be female (71% vs. 39%, p<0.001), younger (mean age: 52.8 vs. 55.8 yrs, p=0.02), and Caucasian (89% vs. 65%, p<0.001). More clinic patients were African-American (26% vs. 3%, p<0.001). More online patients were interested in learning about clinical trials (94% vs. 83%, p<0.001); however, there was no difference in the rate of current or previous clinical trial enrollment (23% vs. 24%, p=0.73). Online patients were more likely to have explored any information regarding clinical trials (72% vs. 59%, p=0.002). There was no difference in rates of patients obtaining information on clinical trials from health care professionals, other patients, or other media. Patients also differed in their expectations of clinical trials. More clinic patients indicated they would need a >50% chance of benefiting from a trial (45% vs. 22%, p<0.001) and/or a <10% chance of serious toxicity from a trial (43% vs. 35%, p<0.01) in order for them to enroll on that trial. Conclusions: The population of patients who are using the Internet differs significantly from patients seen in the clinic. These differences may potentially bias patient populations of studies that utilize the Internet to enroll patients. Direct comparisons of patients enrolling in studies through the Internet and those enrolling in studies through the clinic are needed. Abstract No: 6138 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.