College students' knowledge and attitudes toward clinical trials and their relationship with willingness to participate in COVID-19 trials or vaccines

Objective We examined clinical trial knowledge and attitudes, and their relationship with willingness to participate in COVID-19 vaccine trials, and willingness to accept a COVID-19 vaccine among college students. Participants 331 undergraduates: mean age 25; 72% women; and 78% white. Methods We administered an online, anonymous survey to undergraduate students in July, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results The mean clinical trial knowledge score was 65% (SD = 16) correct. The mean attitudes toward clinical trials score (1 most negative: 5 most positive) was 3.3 (SD = 0.5). Attitudes toward clinical trials were associated with likelihood of COVID-19 trial participation (positive 76% vs. negative 35%, p = 0.001) and a trend toward likelihood of accepting a COVID-19 vaccine if available (positive 89% vs. negative 67%, p = 0.066). Conclusions General clinical trial knowledge and attitudes appear to be important targets for educational interventions. Furthermore, fostering positive attitudes may lead to improved COVID-19 trial participation and vaccine uptake.