Poster Presentation Clinical Oncology Society of Australia Annual Scientific Meeting 2024

Evaluation of Cancer Clinical Trials Resources for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Communities (#342)

Verena S Wu 1 2 , Ben Smith 1 2 , Orlando Rincones 2 , Mayra Ouriques 3 , Sheetal Challam 3 , Lindsey Jasicki 3 , Maria Mury 3 , Tracey O'Brien 3
  1. The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, A Joint Venture with Cancer Council NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
  2. South West Sydney Clinical Campuses, UNSW Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
  3. Cancer Institute NSW, St Leonards, NSW, Australia

Aims

Lack of in-language information is a recognised barrier to clinical trial (CT) access for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) patients. Lack of diversity can limit validity of CT findings when applied to real-world settings, contributing to disparities in cancer outcomes in minority populations.

Cancer Institute NSW co-designed in-language resources to increase awareness and knowledge regarding CTs. Resources were translated into the seven most prevalent language groups in NSW.

This qualitative study evaluated the cultural acceptability and appropriateness of the resources, informing quality improvement and dissemination.

Methods

Community members and clinicians were identified via established partnerships, at arm’s length from the evaluation team. Semi-structured interviews were conducted by telephone/Zoom between May-September 2022 focusing on the cultural acceptability of information content, appropriateness of resource format, and suggested dissemination methods. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed.

Results

Community members (n=12) from 7 language groups, and clinicians (n=2) participated. Regarding acceptability, community members perceived key messages as relevant, with potential to strengthen both knowledge and trust in CTs among CALD communities. The information that CTs could lead to better outcomes was seen as a positive and hopeful message by people from some communities. Clinicians expressed willingness to endorse the resources.

Regarding appropriateness, most community members agreed the resources were comprehensible and provided satisfactory explanations regarding CTs. The layout and imagery were widely considered to be presented in a culturally appropriate format, including the photographs depicting patients from diverse backgrounds. Suggested dissemination methods included the healthcare system, community groups, and ethnic media. Feedback resulted in refinement of language translations and provision of more detailed information on the linked web pages.

Conclusions

The in-language resources met the needs of the target audience and provided information in a culturally acceptable and appropriate way. This highlights the importance of providing appropriate in-language information to commonly under-served communities.