Knowledge and perception of health-care professionals on clinical trials in India: A pan-Indian cross-sectional survey

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the knowledge and perception of health-care professionals (HCPs), such as doctors/surgeons, pharmacists, nurses, optometrists, and lab technicians, on clinical trials (CTs) in India. Methods: The study was a pan-Indian cross-sectional survey initiated by the Indian Ophthalmology Clinical Trial Network (IOCTN) by using a previously validated questionnaire for three months of data collection. An online survey was used to record information regarding demographics, CT knowledge, and CT perception among HCPs. Results: A total of 630 responses were recorded from HCPs: 207 doctors and surgeons, 159 pharmacists, and 264 laboratory technicians, nurses, and optometrists across India. Over 90% of HCPs had a clear knowledge on the purpose of CTs, the informed consent (IC) process, ethical approval by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). About 80% and 90% were aware of confidentiality of patients, voluntariness of participation, and good clinical practice. Surprisingly, less than 50% had lesser knowledge regarding monetary incentives of CT participants (CTPs). A slightly positive perception was observed regarding the potential benefits of CTPs, compensation related to injury, and importance of obtaining IC. Less than 50% had a negative perception that monetary compensation to CTPs led to bias and deprivation of standard treatments. However, no significant difference was observed between other aspects of demographics and perception regarding CTs. Conclusion: We observed doctors and surgeons to be having the highest regarding CTs, followed by pharmacists. The survey highlighted the necessity of scheduling awareness programs among the HCPs, which would improve their misconceptions and perception of CTs while interacting with patients for CT enrollment.

An Overview of Burning Mouth Syndrome.

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is an idiopathic condition characterized by a chronic continuous burning sensation of intraoral soft tissues, typically involving the tongue, with or without extension to the lips and oral mucosa. It is classically accompanied by gustatory disturbances like dysgeusia and parageusia and subjective xerostomia. This syndrome commonly affects people all over the world without racial or socioeconomic predilection. Some patients may develop a single episode of burning sensation while some may show recurrent episodes that last for months or years. It commonly affects perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. The etiology remains obscure and multifactorial, hence the treatment is complicated with multiple approaches involving drugs, psychotherapy along with latest techniques like acupuncture and low level laser therapy being used to treat BMS effectively.