Physician perceptions and beliefs of phase I trials in pediatric oncology

The identification and referral of candidate patients for phase I trials relies heavily on pediatric oncologists who must balance their own perceptions of phase I trials with the desires of the patient and his/her family. A survey was sent to 419 physicians practicing pediatric oncology at 30 different institutions. Results indicated significant differences between physicians who practiced at institutions that participated in phase I consortia versus those who did not. The findings of the survey may be used to enhance the design and execution of phase I trials and to educate oncologists about the goals of phase I trials. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:E67–E69. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.