Language barriers in clinical trials: Exploring impacts on continuity and participants’ engagement and effective mitigation strategies

<p>Clinical trials are crucial for advancing medical knowledge and developing new treatments. However, language barriers can pose significant challenges for participants, particularly in understanding trial procedures, risks, and benefits. Existing policies, guidelines, and studies from 2020 to 2024 identify key challenges in recruiting and retaining non-English-speaking participants. The lack of data on dropout rates highlights the need for improved language services and culturally sensitive communication methods. Findings demonstrate the importance of addressing linguistic disparities to enhance trial inclusivity and success. Innovative strategies to overcome language-related hurdles include the use of professional interpreters, translated materials, and community engagement initiatives. By addressing these challenges, the diversity and representativeness of clinical trials can be improved.</p>

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (MS)

Level thesis:degree_level

Open Access Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Health Sciences

Year dc:date.available

2025

Author dc:creator

• Ani Das, Harsha

Contributors dc:contributor

• Michael Switzer, Ph.D.
• Shannon Murray, MHS

• clinical trials
• language barriers
• language services
• dropout rates
• Medicine and Health Sciences

Repository record dc:identifier

https://commons.emich.edu/theses/1306

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:commons.emich.edu:theses-2626