What are your thoughts regarding people who become participants in a clinical trial but leave before the trial ends?

"All participants are given the choice to withdraw during any stage of the process, and that is their right. Without knowing why a participant chooses to leave a trial, it would be difficult to say exactly how I feel about their exiting the trial. Some people become ill or cannot take the effects of the treatment and are forced to leave, while others simply change their minds for personal reasons. At the end of the day, it's my responsibility to inform them of the risk and benefits upfront so they can make an informed decision."

"I have experienced participants dropping out of clinical trials before. I typically have a conversation with them to better understand their reason for withdrawing and see how I can support them. Sometimes, they have such adverse reactions to the drug they are unable to continue, which is very understandable. I have seen others whose disease was progressing rapidly, and they chose to withdraw to spend their remaining days with family. If it's something I can help with, for example, lack of transportation, I try to provide resources so they can continue the trial. Ultimately, it's the participant's decision to continue or withdraw, and they have to do what's best for them. Though it can be frustrating, I always remain compassionate, respectful, and professional, whatever decision they make."