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Baranowski T, O’Connor TM, Jimenez-Garcia JA, Radhakrishnan K, Arrendondo EM, Thompson D. Social marketing and the challenges of participant recruitment. Transl Behav Med 2024; 14:499-504. [PMID: 38761130 PMCID: PMC11282571 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibae028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Recruitment of research participants often has not obtained a desired sample size, thereby becoming a major problem inhibiting investigators' ability to adequately test the specified hypotheses. Social marketing with its four Ps, originally developed by the business world to sell products and adapted for public health initiatives, is proposed as a dynamic comprehensive conceptual framework to apply marketing principles and practices to enhance participant recruitment. Applying a social marketing approach to research recruitment would require initial investigation to understand the motivations of the target audience in regard to research participation, and continued research throughout the main project to adapt the recruitment efforts as limitations arise. Additional funding would be needed for successful social marketing research recruitment programs to be systematically implemented and evaluated as part of research projects. In this paper, we define social marketing concepts, briefly review the available literature supporting social marketing applied to recruitment for research studies, and consider ethical issues that may arise when using a social marketing approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Baranowski
- Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Teresia M O’Connor
- Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John A Jimenez-Garcia
- Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Elva M Arrendondo
- Department of Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Debbe Thompson
- Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Wang R, McMullin JL, Allahwasaya A, Akhund R, Fazendin J, Lindeman B, Chen H, Gillis A. Feasibility of an Online Patient-Driven International Parathyroid Registry. J Surg Res 2024; 296:217-222. [PMID: 38286100 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Traditional parathyroid registries are labor-intensive and do not always capture long-term follow-up data. This study aimed to develop a patient-driven international parathyroid registry and leverage community connections to improve patient-centered care for hyperparathyroidism. METHODS An anonymous voluntary online survey was developed using Qualtrics and posted in an international patient and advocate-run social media group affiliated with over 11,700 members. The survey was developed from a literature review, expert opinion, and discussion with the social media group managers. It consists of seven sections: patient demographics, past medical history, preoperative symptoms, laboratory evaluation, preoperative imaging studies, operative findings, and operative outcomes. RESULTS From July 30, 2022, to October 1, 2022, 89 complete responses were received. Participants were from 12 countries, mostly (82.0%) from the United States across 31 states. Most participants were female (91.4%), White (96.7%) with a mean (±standard deviation) age of 58 ± 12 y. The most common preoperative symptoms were bone or joint pain (84.3%) and neuropsychiatric symptoms: including fatigue (82.0%), brain fog (79.8%), memory loss (79.8%), and difficulty with concentration (75.3%). The median (interquartile range) length from symptom onset to diagnosis was 40.0 (6.8-100.5) mo. Seventy-one percent of participants had elevated preoperative serum calcium, and 73.2% had elevated preoperative parathyroid hormone. All participants obtained preoperative imaging studies (88.4% ultrasound, 86.0% sestabimi scan, and 45.3% computed tomography). Among them, 48.8% of participants received two, and 34.9% had three imaging studies. The median (interquartile range) time from diagnosis to surgical intervention was 3 (2-9) mo. Twenty-two percent of participants traveled to different cities for surgical intervention. Forty-seven percent of participants underwent outpatient parathyroidectomy. Eighty-four percent of participants reported improved symptoms after parathyroidectomy, 12.4% required oral calcium supplementation for more than 6 mo, 32.6% experienced transient hoarseness after parathyroidectomy, and 14.6% required reoperation after initial parathyroidectomy. CONCLUSIONS This international online parathyroid registry provides a valuable collection of patient-entered clinical outcomes. The high number of responses over 10 wk demonstrates that participants were willing to be involved in research on their disease. The creation of this registry allows global participation and is feasible for future studies in hyperparathyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongzhi Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jessica Liu McMullin
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Ashba Allahwasaya
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Ramsha Akhund
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jessica Fazendin
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Brenessa Lindeman
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Herbert Chen
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Andrea Gillis
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama.
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Krychtiuk KA, Andersson TL, Bodesheim U, Butler J, Curtis LH, Elkind M, Hernandez AF, Hornik C, Lyman GH, Khatri P, Mbagwu M, Murakami M, Nichols G, Roessig L, Young AQ, Schilsky RL, Pagidipati N. Drug development for major chronic health conditions-aligning with growing public health needs: Proceedings from a multistakeholder think tank. Am Heart J 2024; 270:23-43. [PMID: 38242417 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2024.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
The global pharmaceutical industry portfolio is skewed towards cancer and rare diseases due to more predictable development pathways and financial incentives. In contrast, drug development for major chronic health conditions that are responsible for a large part of mortality and disability worldwide is stalled. To examine the processes of novel drug development for common chronic health conditions, a multistakeholder Think Tank meeting, including thought leaders from academia, clinical practice, non-profit healthcare organizations, the pharmaceutical industry, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), payors as well as investors, was convened in July 2022. Herein, we summarize the proceedings of this meeting, including an overview of the current state of drug development for chronic health conditions and key barriers that were identified. Six major action items were formulated to accelerate drug development for chronic diseases, with a focus on improving the efficiency of clinical trials and rapid implementation of evidence into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Javed Butler
- Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, Dallas, TX
| | | | - Mitchell Elkind
- American Heart Association, Dallas, TX; Columbia University, New York, NY
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Applequist J, Burroughs C, Merkel PA, Rothenberg M, Trapnell B, Desnick R, Sahin M, Krischer J. Direct-to-Consumer Recruitment Methods via Traditional and Social Media to Aid in Research Accrual for Clinical Trials for Rare Diseases: Comparative Analysis Study. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e39262. [PMID: 36917158 PMCID: PMC10131902 DOI: 10.2196/39262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recruitment into clinical trials is a challenging process, with as many as 40% of studies failing to meet their target sample sizes. The principles of direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising rely upon novel marketing strategies. The ability to reach expansive audiences in the web-based realm presents a unique opportunity for researchers to overcome various barriers to enrollment in clinical trials. Research has investigated the use of individual web-based platforms to aid in recruitment and accrual into trials; however, a gap in the literature exists, whereby multiple mass communication platforms have yet to be investigated across a range of clinical trials. OBJECTIVE There is a need to better understand how individual factors combine to collectively influence trial recruitment. We aimed to test whether DTC recruitment of potentially eligible study participants via social media platforms (eg, Facebook [Meta Platforms Inc] and Twitter [Twitter Inc]) was an effective strategy or whether this acted as an enhancement to traditional (eg, email via contact registries) recruitment strategies through established clinical research sites. METHODS This study tested multiple DTC web-based recruitment efforts (Facebook, Twitter, email, and patient advocacy group [PAG] involvement) across 6 national and international research studies from 5 rare disease consortia. Targeted social media messaging, social media management software, and individual study websites with prescreening questions were used in the Protocol for Increasing Accrual Using Social Media (PRISM). RESULTS In total, 1465 PRISM website referrals occurred across all 6 studies. Organic (unpaid) Facebook posts (676/1465, 46.14%) and Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network patient contact registry emails (461/1465, 31.47%) represented the most successful forms of engagement. PRISM was successful in accumulating a 40.1% (136/339) lead generation (those who screened positive and consented to share their contact information to be contacted by a clinical site coordinator). Despite the large number of leads generated from PRISM recruitment efforts, the number of patients who were subsequently enrolled in studies was low. Across 6 studies, 3 participants were ultimately enrolled, meaning that 97.8% (133/136) of leads dropped off. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate that although accrual results were low, this is consistent with previously documented challenges of studying populations with rare diseases. Targeted messaging integrated throughout the recruitment process (eg, referral, lead, and accrual) remains an area for further research. Key elements to consider include structuring the communicative workflow in such a way that PAG involvement is central to the process, with clinical site coordinators actively involved after an individual consents to share their contact information. Customized approaches are needed for each population and research study, with observational studies best suited for social media recruitment. As evidenced by lead generation, results suggest that web-based recruitment efforts, coupled with targeted messaging and PAG partnerships, have the potential to supplement clinical trial accrual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janelle Applequist
- Zimmerman School of Advertising & Mass Communications, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Cristina Burroughs
- Health Informatics Institute, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Peter A Merkel
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Marc Rothenberg
- Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Bruce Trapnell
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Robert Desnick
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mustafa Sahin
- Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jeffrey Krischer
- Health Informatics Institute, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
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Dias MC, Pinto DCGA, Costa M, Araújo M, Santos C, Silva AMS. Phytochemical and Antioxidant Profile of the Medicinal Plant Melia azedarach Subjected to Water Deficit Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113611. [PMID: 36362399 PMCID: PMC9656347 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental stress triggered by climate change can alter the plant’s metabolite profile, which affects its physiology and performance. This is particularly important in medicinal species because their economic value depends on the richness of their phytocompounds. We aimed to characterize how water deficit modulated the medicinal species Melia azedarach’s lipophilic profile and antioxidant status. Young plants were exposed to water deficit for 20 days, and lipophilic metabolite profile and the antioxidant capacity were evaluated. Leaves of M. azedarach are rich in important fatty acids and oleamide. Water deficit increased the radical scavenging capacity, total phenol, flavonoids, and catechol pools, and the accumulation of β-sitosterol, myo-inositol, succinic acid, sucrose, d-glucose and derivatives, d-psicofuranose, d-(+)-fructofuranose, and the fatty acids stearic, α-linolenic, linoleic and palmitic acids. These responses are relevant to protecting the plant against climate change-related stress and also increase the nutritional and antioxidant quality of M. azedarach leaves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Celeste Dias
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Diana C. G. A. Pinto
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria Costa
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Márcia Araújo
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- IB2 Lab, Department of Biology & LAQV/REQUIMTE, Faculty of Sciences, Rua do Campo, Alegre, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Conceição Santos
- IB2 Lab, Department of Biology & LAQV/REQUIMTE, Faculty of Sciences, Rua do Campo, Alegre, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Artur M. S. Silva
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, Campus Universitário de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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Dwyer AA, Uveges M, Dockray S, Smith N. Advancing qualitative rare disease research methodology: a comparison of virtual and in-person focus group formats. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:354. [PMID: 36089593 PMCID: PMC9465872 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02522-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Rare disease research is hampered in part by the fact that patients are geographically dispersed. Rare disease patient communities are recognized for their use of the internet to learn about their condition and find peer-to-peer support. As such, web-based technologies offer promise for overcoming geographic barriers in rare disease research for many. Qualitative focus groups (FGs) are a widely used methodology used to understand patients and parents/families ‘lived experience’ and unmet needs is important to improve care for rare diseases. It is unclear if web-enabled (virtual) FGs are comparable to traditional in-person approaches. We conducted in-person (n = 3) and virtual (n = 3) FGs with rare disease patients to determine if virtual FGs produce similar results in-person FGs.
Results
Three in-person (n = 33 participants) and three virtual (n = 25 participants) FGs were conducted examining attitudes and beliefs regarding genetic testing and family communication of risk. Participants included 30 males, 18 females, and 10 parents/guardians. Two independent investigators identified excerpts (meaningful sections of text) and coded themes/sub-themes using a codebook. Inter-coder agreement across identified excerpts (n = 530) in both FG formats was 844/875 (96.5%). Two additional investigators reviewed coded excerpts and did not identify additional themes/sub-themes—supporting data saturation across FG formats. Virtual FGs accounted for 303/530 (57.2%) of total excerpts and 957/1721 (55.7%) of all identified themes/sub-themes. Formats were similar in terms of overall number of excerpts (101 ± 7.8 vs. 75.7 ± 18.8, p = 0.26) and themes/sub-themes (319 ± 6.1 vs. 254.7 ± 103.6, p = 0.34) between virtual and in-person FGs. However, virtual FGs had significantly more coded excerpts specifically relating to sensitive/intimate topics including ‘attitudes and beliefs’ (n = 320 vs. n = 235, p < 0.001), ‘information and support’ (n = 184 vs. n = 99, p < 0.001), and ‘family communication’ (n = 208 vs. n = 114, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Virtual FGs yielded similar numbers of coded excerpts compared to traditional in-person FGs. Virtual FGs appear to support the relative anonymity of participants, resulting in richer discussion of highly sensitive, intimate topics. Findings support the validity and methodologic rigor of using web-enabled technologies for conducting FGs in rare diseases.
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Cowie MR, Bozkurt B, Butler J, Briggs A, Kubin M, Jonas A, Adler AI, Patrick-Lake B, Zannad F. How can we optimise health technology assessment and reimbursement decisions to accelerate access to new cardiovascular medicines? Int J Cardiol 2022; 365:61-68. [PMID: 35905826 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2022.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory approvals of, and subsequent access to, innovative cardiovascular medications have declined. How much of this decline relates to the final step of gaining reimbursement for new treatments is unknown. Payers and health technology assessment (HTA) bodies look beyond efficacy and safety to assess whether a new drug improves patient outcomes, quality of life, or satisfaction at a cost that is affordable compared to existing treatments. HTA bodies work within a limited healthcare budget, and this is one of the reasons why only half of newly approved drugs are accepted for reimbursement, or receive restricted or "optimised" recommendations from HTA bodies. All stakeholders have the common goal of facilitating access to safe, effective, and affordable treatments to appropriate patients. An important strategy to expedite this is providing optimal data. This is demonstrably facilitated by early (and ongoing) discussions between all stakeholders. Many countries have formal programmes to provide collaborative regulatory and HTA advice to developers. Other strategies include aligning regulatory and HTA processes, increasing use of real-world evidence, formally defining the decision-making process, and educating stakeholders on the criteria for positive decision making. Industry should focus on developing treatments for unmet medical needs, seek early engagement with HTA and regulatory bodies, improve methodologies for optimal price setting, develop internal systems to collaborate with national and international stakeholders, and conduct post-approval studies. Patient involvement in all stages of development, including HTA, is critical to capture the lived experience and priorities of those whose lives will be impacted by new treatment approvals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin R Cowie
- Royal Brompton Hospital & School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Biykem Bozkurt
- Winters Center for Heart Failure, Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Javed Butler
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Andrew Briggs
- Department of Health Services Research & Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Maria Kubin
- Department of Integrated Evidence Generation, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Adrian Jonas
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), London, UK
| | - Amanda I Adler
- Diabetes Trial Unit, Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism (OCDEM), Oxford, UK
| | - Bray Patrick-Lake
- Department of Strategic Partnerships, Evidation Health, San Mateo, CA, USA
| | - Faiez Zannad
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm Clinical Investigation Center at Institut Lorrain du Coeur et des Vaisseaux, University Hospital of Nancy, Nancy, France
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Traboco L, Pandian H, Nikiphorou E, Gupta L. Designing Infographics: Visual Representations for Enhancing Education, Communication, and Scientific Research. J Korean Med Sci 2022; 37:e214. [PMID: 35818705 PMCID: PMC9274103 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2022.37.e214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Infographics are graphic visual representations of educational content, used to deliver complex information, disseminate scientific research, and drive behavioral change. Herein, we review some of the factors pertinent to designing infographics and the potential for automation in the future. To guide high-impact design, it is vital to clearly define the objectives of the infographic and its target audience. Designing an effective infographic necessitates careful consideration of the layout, colors, font, and context. More recently, technical support to develop infographics are increasingly available through online software (Canva, Adobe, and Venngage) and emerging artificial intelligence programs. References can also become a visual representation of trends in scientific discovery. It is crucial for clinicians, researchers and scientists to have the knowledge and skills to design compelling infographics. In the era of social media, the uptake and effects of infographics for disseminating scientific research and public health education need to be further studied to understand their full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Traboco
- Department of Medicine, Section of Rheumatology, St. Luke's Medical Center-Global City, Taguig, Philippines
| | - Haridha Pandian
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Elena Nikiphorou
- Department of Rheumatology, King's College Hospital & Centre for Rheumatic Diseases, Division of Inflammation Biology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Latika Gupta
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust, Wolverhampton, UK
- Division of Musculoskeletal and Dermatological Sciences, Centre for Musculoskeletal Research, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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A Community-Led Approach as a Guide to Overcome Challenges for Therapy Research in Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116829. [PMID: 35682409 PMCID: PMC9180837 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation (CDG) are a large family of rare genetic diseases for which effective therapies are almost nonexistent. To better understand the reasons behind this, to analyze ongoing therapy research and development (R&D) for CDG, and to provide future guidance, a community-led mixed methods approach was organized during the 4th World Conference on CDG for Families and Professionals. In the quantitative phase, electronic surveys pointed to the prioritization of six therapeutic R&D tools, namely biobanks, registries, biomarkers, disease models, natural history studies, and clinical trials. Subsequently, in the qualitative phase, the challenges and solutions associated with these research tools were explored through community-driven think tanks. The multiple challenges and solutions identified administrative/regulatory, communication, financial, technical, and biological issues, which are directly related to three fundamental aspects of therapy R&D, namely data, sample, and patient management. An interdependence was traced between the prioritized tools, with diagnosis and therapies acting as bidirectional triggers that fuel these interrelationships. In conclusion, this study’s pioneering and adaptable community-led methodology identified several CDG therapy R&D gaps, many common to other rare diseases, without easy solutions. However, the strong proactive attitude towards research, based on inclusive and international partnerships and involving all members of the CDG community, sets the direction for better future therapy R&D.
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Nguyen CQ, Alba-Concepcion K, Palmer EE, Scully JL, Millis N, Farrar MA. The involvement of rare disease patient organisations in therapeutic innovation across rare paediatric neurological conditions: a narrative review. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:167. [PMID: 35436886 PMCID: PMC9014615 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02317-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The patient voice is becoming increasingly prominent across all stages of therapeutic innovation. It pervades research domains from funding and recruitment, to translation, care, and support. Advances in genomic technologies have facilitated novel breakthrough therapies, whose global developments, regulatory approvals, and confined governmental subsidisations have stimulated renewed hope amongst rare disease patient organisations (RDPOs). With intensifying optimism characterising the therapeutic landscape, researcher-advocate partnerships have reached an inflexion point, at which stakeholders may evaluate their achievements and formulate frameworks for future refinement.
Main text
Through this narrative review, we surveyed relevant literature around the roles of RDPOs catering to the rare paediatric neurological disease community. Via available literature, we considered RDPO interactions within seven domains of therapeutic development: research grant funding, industry sponsorship, study recruitment, clinical care and support, patient-reported outcome measures, and research prioritisation. In doing so, we explored practical and ethical challenges, gaps in understanding, and future directions of inquiry. Current literature highlights the increasing significance of ethical and financial challenges to patient advocacy. Biomedical venture philanthropy is gaining momentum amongst RDPOs, whose small grants can incrementally assist laboratories in research, training, and pursuits of more substantial grants. However, RDPO seed funding may encounter long-term sustainability issues and difficulties in selecting appropriate research investments. Further challenges include advocate-industry collaborations, commercial biases, and unresolved controversies regarding orphan drug subsidisation. Beyond their financial interactions, RDPOs serve instrumental roles in project promotion, participant recruitment, biobank creation, and patient registry establishment. They are communication conduits between carers, patients, and other stakeholders, but their contributions may be susceptible to bias and unrealistic expectations.
Conclusion
Further insights into how RDPOs navigate practical and ethical challenges in therapeutic development may enhance cooperative efforts. They may also inform resources, whose distribution among advocates, parents, and clinicians, may assist decision-making processes around rare disease clinical trials and treatments.
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Zannad F, Chauhan C, Gee PO, Hartshorne-Evans N, Hernandez AF, Mann MK, Martinez R, Mehran R. Patient partnership in cardiovascular clinical trials. Eur Heart J 2021; 43:1432-1437. [PMID: 34897413 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients are ultimately the end-users of medical therapies and need to be actively integrated as contributors and decision-makers in the process of product development throughout product lifecycles. This is increasingly being recognized by patients, investigators, regulators, payers, sponsors, and medical journals. However, cardiovascular research remains behind other fields in terms of the extent of patient involvement and awareness of clinical trials in cardiovascular research. True patient partnerships in cardiovascular therapeutic development may permit more rapid recognition of unmet needs, ensure alignment of product development priorities with patient priorities, improve efficiency of trials (e.g. recruitment), and ensure outcomes of value to patients are being measured in trials (e.g. quality of life). This paper reviews ongoing initiatives and remaining opportunities to accomplish contributive patient involvement in cardiovascular clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiez Zannad
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm Clinical Investigation Center, Institut Lorrain du Coeur et des Vaisseaux, University Hospital of Nancy, Nancy 54500, France
| | | | | | | | - Adrian F Hernandez
- Duke Clinical Research Institute and Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Roxana Mehran
- The Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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12
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Opportunities and pitfalls of social media research in rare genetic diseases: a systematic review. Genet Med 2021; 23:2250-2259. [PMID: 34282302 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-021-01273-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Social media may be particularly valuable in research in rare genetic diseases because of the low numbers of patients and the rare disease community's robust online presence. The goal of this systematic review was to understand how social media is currently used in rare disease research and the characteristics of the participants in these studies. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of six databases to identify studies published in English between January 2004 and November 2020, of which 120 met inclusion criteria. RESULTS Most studies were observational (n = 114, 95.0%) and cross-sectional (n = 107, 89.2%), and more than half (n = 69, 57.5%) utilized only surveys. Only 101 rare diseases were included across all studies. Participant demographics, when reported, were predominantly female (70.1% ± 22.5%) and white (85.0% ± 11.0%) adult patients and caregivers. CONCLUSION Despite its potential benefits in rare disease research, the use of social media is still methodologically limited and the participants reached may not be representative of the rare disease population by gender, race, age, or rare disease type. As scholars explore using social media for rare disease research, careful attention should be paid to representativeness when studying this diverse patient community.
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Dwyer AA, Zeng Z, Lee CS. Validating online approaches for rare disease research using latent class mixture modeling. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:209. [PMID: 33971926 PMCID: PMC8108361 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-01827-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rare disease patients are geographically dispersed, posing challenges to research. Some researchers have partnered with patient organizations and used web-based approaches to overcome geographic recruitment barriers. Critics of such methods claim that samples are homogenous and do not represent the broader patient population—as patients recruited from patient organizations are thought to have high levels of needs. We applied latent class mixture modeling (LCMM) to define patient clusters based on underlying characteristics. We used previously collected data from a cohort of patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism who were recruited online in collaboration with a patient organization. Patient demographics, clinical information, Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R) scores and Zung self-rating depression Scale (SDS) were used as variables for LCMM analysis. Specifically, we aimed to test the classic critique that patients recruited online in collaboration with a patient organization are a homogenous group with high needs. We hypothesized that distinct classes (clinical profiles) of patients could be identified—thereby demonstrating the validity of online recruitment and supporting transferability of findings. Results In total, 154 patients with CHH were included. The LCMM analysis identified three distinct subgroups (Class I: n = 84 [54.5%], Class II: n = 41 [26.6%], Class III: n = 29 [18.8%]) that differed significantly in terms of age, education, disease consequences, emotional consequences, illness coherence and depression symptoms (all p < 0.001) as well as age at diagnosis (p = 0.045). Classes depict a continuum of psychosocial impact ranging from severe to relatively modest. Additional analyses revealed later diagnosis (Class I: 19.2 ± 6.7 years [95% CI 17.8–20.7]) is significantly associated with worse psychological adaptation and coping as assessed by disease consequences, emotional responses, making sense of one’s illness and SDS depressive symptoms (all p < 0.001). Conclusions We identify three distinct classes of patients who were recruited online in collaboration with a patient organization. Findings refute prior critiques of patient partnership and web-based recruitment for rare disease research. This is the first empirical data suggesting negative psychosocial sequelae of later diagnosis (“diagnostic odyssey”) often observed in CHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A Dwyer
- Boston College Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA. .,Massachusetts General Hospital - Harvard Center for Reproductive Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Ziwei Zeng
- Boston College Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Center for Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics and Assessment, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Christopher S Lee
- Boston College Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA.,Eileen O'Connor Institute of Nursing Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
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Joshi M, Gupta L. Preparing Infographics for Post-publication Promotion of Research on Social Media. J Korean Med Sci 2021; 36:e41. [PMID: 33527783 PMCID: PMC7850859 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2021.36.e41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Infographics are pictorial representations of information intended to disseminate information quickly and clearly. Their use has increased in the past decade due to wider and easy access to technology. Infographics are being increasingly used for public advisories, disseminating protocols for healthcare professionals, and post-publication promotion of research. Due to their potential to rapidly reach a vast audience, these have gained larger importance during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Two key aspects determine the quality of infographics, content and visual appeal. In this brief, the authors attempt to delineate the key aspects of designing an infographic, and the freeware that they may have at their disposal for creating informative, appealing, and useful infographics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mrudula Joshi
- Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Government Medical College and Sassoon General Hospitals, Pune, India
| | - Latika Gupta
- Department Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India.
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Wright CL, Knopp MI, Knopp MV. Online Social Media: Concepts and Practices for Molecular Imaging Professionals. Mol Imaging 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-816386-3.00070-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Brezing CA, Luo SX, Mariani JJ, Levin FR. Digital Clinical Trials for Substance Use Disorders in the Age of Covid-19. J Addict Med 2020; 14:e297-e302. [PMID: 32956164 PMCID: PMC7647443 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
: As a result of the coronavirus 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, clinical research for substance use disorders (SUDs) has been impeded due to widespread stay-at-home mandates limiting the operations of "non-essential" work. Although appropriate to proceed with an abundance of caution to prevent viral spread, there will be detrimental consequences for patients with SUDs if clinical trials research cannot adapt and continue uninterrupted. The field of digital health has strong evidence for its feasibility and effectiveness and offers tools that can facilitate the continuation of SUD clinical trials research remotely in accordance with Covid-19 precautions. Some digital tools have been used as components of SUD research in the past; however, no published clinical trial in SUDs to-date has been entirely virtual. This has important implications for disrupted clinical care, as providers seek guidelines for best digital practices. This paper provides a roadmap for integrating the fields of digital health and SUD clinical trials by proposing methods to complete recruitment, screening, informed consent, other study procedures, and internal lab operations digitally. The immediate future of SUD research depends on the ability to comply with social distancing. Investment in research of digital clinical trials for SUDs provides an opportunity to cultivate benefits for research and clinical care long-term as we can (1) define regulatory requirements for the implementation of digital systems, (2) develop consensus on system-wide standards and protocols in the appropriate use of technology, and (3) gain experience that can translate to the treatment of patients with SUDs through telehealth in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina A Brezing
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Division of Substance Use Disorders, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY(CB, SL, JM, FL); Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY (CB, SL, JM, FL)
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Patel MI, Lopez AM, Blackstock W, Reeder-Hayes K, Moushey A, Phillips J, Tap W. Cancer Disparities and Health Equity: A Policy Statement From the American Society of Clinical Oncology. J Clin Oncol 2020; 38:3439-3448. [PMID: 32783672 PMCID: PMC7527158 DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.00642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
ASCO strives, through research, education, and promotion of the highest quality of patient care, to create a world where cancer is prevented and every survivor is healthy. In this pursuit, cancer health equity remains the guiding institutional principle that applies to all its activities across the cancer care continuum. In 2009, ASCO committed to addressing differences in cancer outcomes in its original policy statement on cancer disparities. Over the past decade, despite novel diagnostics and therapeutics, together with changes in the cancer care delivery system such as passage of the Affordable Care Act, cancer disparities persist. Our understanding of the populations experiencing disparate outcomes has likewise expanded to include the intersections of race/ethnicity, geography, sexual orientation and gender identity, sociodemographic factors, and others. This updated statement is intended to guide ASCO's future activities and strategies to achieve its mission of conquering cancer for all populations. ASCO acknowledges that much work remains to be done, by all cancer stakeholders at the systems level, to overcome historical momentum and existing social structures responsible for disparate cancer outcomes. This updated statement affirms ASCO's commitment to moving beyond descriptions of differences in cancer outcomes toward achievement of cancer health equity, with a focus on improving equitable access to care, improving clinical research, addressing structural barriers, and increasing awareness that results in measurable and timely action toward achieving cancer health equity for all.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Allyn Moushey
- American Society of Clinical Oncology, Alexandria, VA
| | | | - William Tap
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
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