Obesity Clinical Research: Patient Recruitment Challenges

By Joanna Pulawska, Ph.D., Therapeutic Area Head, CNS & CVRM and Nicole Zandy, Senior Director, Clinical Project Management, Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolic

Obesity clinical research faces persistent recruitment challenges that threaten timelines and trial success. Despite the growing prevalence of obesity worldwide, enrolling qualified participants remains complex due to strict eligibility criteria, comorbid conditions, and patient hesitancy.

Traditional recruitment models often fail to address these barriers, leading to delays and increased costs. To overcome these hurdles, sponsors must adopt innovative strategies that prioritize patient engagement and accessibility. Leveraging real-world data and predictive analytics can help identify high-potential recruitment sites and optimize outreach efforts. Incorporating decentralized trial elements, digital health tools, and flexible scheduling can reduce patient burden and improve retention. Additionally, partnerships with advocacy groups and community-based programs can expand reach and build trust among diverse populations.

By rethinking recruitment approaches, clinical teams can accelerate enrollment and deliver meaningful outcomes for obesity research. Access the full resource to explore actionable strategies for overcoming recruitment challenges and driving success in obesity clinical trials.