Clinical research in oncology in French Overseas Territories: Challenges, strengths, and available resources

Bull Cancer. 2025 Feb 25:S0007-4551(25)00026-8. doi: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2024.12.012. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Reducing territorial inequalities in access to care and innovations in oncology is an objective of the ten-year strategy to fight cancer. The populations of Overseas Territories (OT) face limits in terms of access to clinical research in oncology (CRO).

METHODS: The article aims to share an exhaustive inventory of the challenges observed in the development of CRO in the OT but also the means identified to respond to them, illustrated with recent successes in terms of setting up a CRO program.

RESULTS: CRO in the French OT presents unique challenges. To overcome these obstacles, the coverage of additional OT costs by supervisory authorities, legislative responses to remove regulatory constraints, the deployment of innovative solutions, telemedicine, continuing distance learning, patient partnerships, the contribution of HSS researchers and academic collaborations are all proven mechanisms. Several centres have recently demonstrated the feasibility of quality CRO from OT. These initiatives should be supported and extended. Indeed, by investing in OT, local and national authorities can strengthen the capacities of local actors to develop CRO that meets the needs of the population and the reality of these territories.

CONCLUSION: Overseas centers have been able to meet the challenges and have demonstrated the feasibility of carrying out CRO to provide overseas patients' access to innovative oncological treatments and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge in oncology.

PMID:40011142 | DOI:10.1016/j.bulcan.2024.12.012