Date Approved
2025
Degree Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department or School
Health Sciences
Committee Member
Michael Switzer, Ph.D.
Committee Member
Shannon Murray, MHS
Abstract
The underrepresentation of developing countries in clinical trials limits the applicability of research findings to a significant portion of the global population. This study addresses this gap by conducting a retrospective analysis of published literature to identify patient-centric barriers to clinical trial participation in developing countries. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases yielded four relevant studies, which were subjected to thematic analysis. The study identified 12 key emerging themes, with safety and efficacy concerns and trust issues being the most prevalent. The thematic analysis partially supported the hypothesis: While trust issues were found in all studies and lack of awareness in 50%, cultural and religious factors did not emerge as a distinct theme. Addressing these barriers is crucial to increasing clinical trial participation in developing countries, promoting more equitable and generalizable medical advancements.
Recommended Citation
Kaur, Kirandeep, "Patient-centric barriers to clinical trial participation in developing countries: A retrospective analysis" (2025). Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. 1302.
https://commons.emich.edu/theses/1302
