Trust in researchers and willingness to engage in cancer research

BACKGROUND: Trust in medical scientists shapes public engagement in health and biomedical research, yet its influence on cancer research participation is not well understood. This study assessed trust in researchers and examined its relationship with willingness to engage in diverse cancer research activities. METHODS: Cross-sectional analyses of a 2023 statewide survey of US adults evaluated Trust in Medical Researcher Scale (TMRS) scores (range 0-48) and willingness to participate in cancer research activities (research studies, biobanking, and data-sharing). Associations between trust and participation were examined using descriptive statistics and adjusted logistic regression models. RESULTS: Among 1780 respondents, the mean TMRS score was 27.3 ± 9.3, with most reporting moderate trust. Willingness to participate in cancer research varied across activity types. Low trust was consistently associated with reduced willingness across all activity types. CONCLUSIONS: Limited trust in researchers represents a significant barrier to participation in cancer research.