Supporting Participant Engagement in Cancer Genomics Research in Rare Cancers: A Qualitative Study of Patients, Caregivers, and Advocates.

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to identify patterns and themes that support participant engagement in patient-partnered cancer genomics research.MethodsThe Osteosarcoma (OS) and Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) Projects of Count Me In allow any patient with OS and LMS in the US and Canada to contribute their health information, tumor samples, and lived experience to an aggregated, public research database. We conducted in-depth interviews with research partners, including patients, caregivers, and advocates, who were purposefully sampled to ensure inclusion of racial and ethnic minorities, those with less than college education, and adolescents (age 12-17). Coding and analysis were conducted by the research team using NVivo to identify themes that support engagement.ResultsTen patients, ten caregivers, and six advocates were interviewed. Seven themes were identified that support participant engagement: (a) motivation, (b) respect, (c) trust, (d) inclusivity, (e) relationship, (f) engagement, and (g) empowerment. Research partners were motivated to serve others, play a part in scientific discovery, and play a role in a novel initiative. Respect was supported through timeliness in communication or follow-up, an appropriate amount of time and information requested, and an acknowledgement that illness may prevent participation. Trust was developed through ensuring adequate privacy/confidentiality safeguards and demonstrating transparency. Inclusivity was demonstrated through showcasing broad representation and mitigating technical barriers. Research partners wanted to feel a relationship with, and engaged and empowered by, researchers. Adolescents reported their parents were more engaged than they were.ConclusionsResearch partners, including patients, caregivers, and advocates, have a strong desire to engage with researchers. We identified seven themes to support engagement. Researchers can optimize their communication and operations to support participant engagement in cancer genomics research.