Rethinking cancer clinical trial eligibility—Inclusion is a scientific and moral imperative

Cancer clinical trials remain essential to advancing oncology but suffer from persistent disparities because of restrictive eligibility criteria, implicit bias, and social determinants of health that disproportionately exclude racial minorities, women, and underserved populations. Applying a socioecological framework and reforming trial design—through relaxed criteria, targeted recruitment, and systemic support—can significantly improve equity and inclusivity in cancer research.