Cost analysis in thyroid cancer clinical trials: Toward value-based oncology care.

BACKGROUND

Clinical trials are crucial in advancing novel therapies for thyroid cancer. Given the increased cost of modern healthcare, cost considerations in clinical trials are important yet remain under-reported.

METHODS

A search of ClinicalTrials.gov identified thyroid cancer studies including cost in the trial description or as an outcome. Data collected included trial information, cost outcomes, and cost-effectiveness analyses.

RESULTS

Among 46 thyroid cancer-focused clinical trials, only 28 (60.8 ​%) mentioned cost in any capacity, of which 21 (75 ​%) included cost outcomes and 7 (25 ​%) included cost-effectiveness analyses. Overall, cost was a primary outcome in 1 (2.2 ​%) trial, secondary outcome in 20 (43.5 ​%) trials, and exploratory outcome in 7 (15.2 ​%) trials.

CONCLUSION

The inclusion of cost analysis in thyroid cancer clinical trials is limited. Given rising cost pressures in modern healthcare systems, the low prevalence of cost endpoints and cost-effectiveness analyses underscores the need for increased awareness and investment in this domain.