The Outcome and Impact of Academic Cancer Clinical Trials with Participation from Canadian Sites (2015–2024)

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Academically sponsored cancer clinical trials (ACCTs) are essential for advancing patient-centered care, particularly in areas underserved by commercial research. The Canadian Cancer Clinical Trials Network (3CTN) was established to support high-quality multi-center ACCTs through coordinated infrastructure and funding. Over ten years, funders provided an average of CAD 4.3 million annually (~CAD 0.11 per capita), primarily from federal and provincial sources. This study evaluates the outcomes and impact of trials supported by 3CTN between 2015 and 2024. METHODS: We conducted a descriptive analysis of 350 ACCTs that stopped recruiting and had primary completion dates within the study period. Trial characteristics, results, publication rates, and incorporation into clinical guidelines were assessed using registry data, peer-reviewed publications, and structured searches of oncology guidelines. RESULTS: Among these 350 closed trials, 116 were Phase III studies. Of these, 36% were incorporated into clinical practice guidelines, and 7% were likely to be incorporated. Overall, 81% of trials were published in journals, and 45% posted results in public registries. Trials addressed diverse cancer types, with notable contributions in rare cancers and vulnerable populations. CONCLUSIONS: 3CTN-supported ACCTs had high completion and reporting rates, with substantial influence on clinical practice. These findings highlight how sustained infrastructure and modest public investment can deliver meaningful improvements in cancer care and inform evidence-based policy.