Temporal changes in characteristics and external validity of randomized controlled trials in older people from 2012 to 2019.

Background

Older individuals are often underrepresented in clinical trials. In 2012 only 7% of RCT’s specifically studied older people and their geriatric characteristics were poorly reported. The aim of this review was to investigate temporal changes in characteristics and external validity of randomized controlled trials in older people from 2012 to 2019.

Methods

PubMed was searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published in 2019. Firstly, the proportion of RCTs specially designed for older people were determined by the following criteria: a reported mean age of ≥ 70 years or a lower age cutoff of ≥ 55. Secondly, the trials with a majority of older people, defined by a reported mean age of ≥ 60 years, were screened for reporting of geriatric assessments. Both parts were compared with identical reviews performed in 2012.

Results

From a 10% random sample, 1446 RCTs were included in this systematic review. First, 8% of trials were specifically designed for older people in 2019 compared to 7% in 2012. Secondly, 25% of the trials included a majority of older people in 2019, compared to 22% in 2012. Thirdly, in 52% of these trials in 2019 one or more of the geriatric assessments were reported compared to 34% in 2012.

Conclusions

Although in 2019 the proportion of published RCTs specifically designed for older people remains low, more characteristics on geriatric assessments were reported compared to 2012. Continued efforts should be paid to increase both the number and the validity of trials for older people.

© 2023. The Author(s).

Overzicht publicatie

TitelTemporal changes in characteristics and external validity of randomized controlled trials in older people from 2012 to 2019.
Datum24 mei 2023
Tijdschrift naamBMC geriatrics
Tijdschrift nummerv23.1:324
DOI10.1186/s12877-023-04018-6
PubMed37226093
Auteursvan Eijk E, van der Spek YM, van Deudekom FJA, van den Bos F, Mooijaart SP & Trompet S
TrefwoordenGeriatric assessments, Older individuals, Randomized controlled trials, Systematic review, Temporal changes
Lees Lees publicatie