Getting Young Adults Involved in Clinical Trials: A Fresh Look

Clinical trials are crucial for developing new treatments. However, some groups are often left out. This is a big problem because it means the treatments might not work as well for these groups. One such group is young adults. They are an important group to include because they will be the ones using these treatments in the future. So, it is vital to find ways to get them involved. To get young adults involved, it is important to understand what motivates them. This is not always straightforward. Young adults have unique needs and preferences. They might be more tech-savvy than other groups. They might also have different concerns about their health and privacy. So, it is not enough to just invite them to participate. It is necessary to design tools and strategies that speak to their specific needs. This means involving them in the planning process. This is known as co-design. It is a way to ensure that the tools and strategies are relevant and appealing to young adults. One way to do this is through controlled intercept studies. This involves stopping young adults in a public place and asking them to participate in a study. This can be a quick and effective way to gather information. However, it is important to do this in a respectful and ethical way. It is also important to consider the limitations of this method. For example, it might not reach young adults who are not in public places or who are not comfortable being approached in this way. Another important factor is the design of the digital tools. These tools should be user-friendly and engaging. They should also be accessible to young adults with different abilities and backgrounds. This means considering factors like language, literacy, and cultural differences. It also means testing the tools with a diverse group of young adults to ensure they work for everyone. This is not just about making the tools look good. It is about making them useful and effective for the people who will use them. It is also important to think critically about the role of technology in clinical trials. While digital tools can be a great way to reach young adults, they are not a magic solution. They should be used as part of a broader strategy that includes other methods of engagement. This could include social media campaigns, community events, or partnerships with schools and universities. The goal is to create a comprehensive approach that reaches young adults where they are and speaks to their unique needs and preferences. This is not just about getting more young adults to participate in clinical trials. It is about making sure that the trials are relevant and meaningful to them. This is the only way to ensure that the treatments developed are effective and accessible to all.