Introduction: In evidence-based era of cardiology with emerging of potential therapies, it is crucial to include diverse population in terms of (geography, gender, race, and economic status) in clinical trials (CT) to enhance generalizability of trials results. Such inclusion necessitates exploring barriers and motivators of diverse population for participation in CT. There is lack of data from Middle Eastern countries regarding perspectives of population about CT. Furthermore, there is no data about perceptions of Iraqi population in general and women in particular regarding CT.

Research question: We aim to explore knowledge and perceptions of female patients about CT.

Methods: Paper-based survey was filled by investigators during face-to-face interview with women attending healthcare facilities in a rural area in Iraq.

Results: n=50, mean age=28.7 year, 50% had primary education level. 36% defined CT as experiments to test a new drug or procedure. Main concerns to participate in CT was safety 62%. 32% said they would participate in CT if they were asked to. 20% said they will participate in CT involving surgery or procedure if were asked to. 80% reported they would participate in education CT (CT involving telemedicine/video programs as intervention). Although all participants never participated in CT before, 80% had concerns about CT in general. 34% of women thought that family duties could prevent them from commitment with trials. 70% agreed to participate in clinical trials if drug safety was ensured, while 90% refused to participate in trials if the drug had unknown safety. 86% of participants agree to participate in trials if it was open label.

Conclusions: Safety was a major concern of respondents for participation in CT. Establishing patient public involvement is essential step towards initiating CT ecosystem in Iraq. Being aware of population perceptions and concerns are critical to include this under-represented population in cardiovascular CT.