Understanding the Barriers to Women’s Participation in Clinical Trials

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The Center for Connected Medicine at UPMC partnered with AMG Research to conduct in‑depth research examining women’s perceptions of clinical trials and identifying the key barriers that limit their participation.

The goal of this research was to explore women’s views and experiences related to clinical trials to pinpoint the barriers most responsible for lower enrollment. By understanding the obstacles, strategies can be developed to improve participation.

Several key findings emerged from the research, which was based on survey responses from 400 women age 18 and older across the United States:

• Health care professionals are the most influential source of awareness and reassurance about clinical trials, regardless of prior experience with clinical trials. 
• Women evaluate participation through multiple lenses: helping others (altruism), personal health benefits (access to new treatment options and proactive management), and potential financial compensation are the most influential.  
• Fear of side effects is the single most consistent barrier to participation. Having trusted sources present clear, straightforward education and communication is the most effective way to overcome this barrier. 
• Logistical burdens (e.g., time, number of visits/tests, and travel, etc.) strongly influence drop-off among women who consider trials but do not enroll. 
• Remote or at-home participation is highly relevant where feasible, with around half of respondents saying they would be more likely to participate in a trial from home, if offered. 
• Interest in future participation increases with exposure: a large majority of past participants reported high willingness to enroll again.

These results are influential in beginning to shape a strategic direction of UPMC Sponsored Clinical Trials and Partnerships (SCTP) focused on inclusive outreach, targeted communications, and a more accessible trial experience that increases participation.

“This research reinforces the momentum we’re building within UPMC. By deepening our understanding of how women engage with clinical trial information, we’re not only improving our processes, but we’re laying the proper foundation to ensure women feel truly seen, supported, and empowered to advocate for their own health,” said Nicole Ansani, PharmD, senior vice president of New Development Initiatives at UPMC Enterprises, and executive leader of UPMC SCTP.

Next Steps

• Learn more about the executive leading UPMC Sponsored Clinical Trials and Partnerships, Nicole Ansani. 

• Read our previous clinical trials research report, “Opportunity for Improvement: Performance of Clinical Trials Programs at Academic Medical Center.”