Working Through Your Emotions: Exercise Repairs the Experience of Positive and Negative Emotions Through Cognitive Emotion Regulation After a Recalled Stressor.

Cancer clinical trials (CCTs) are essential for advancing care, improving survival outcomes, and developing innovative therapeutic approaches. Despite their importance, participation in clinical trials remains consistently low, with substantial disparities affecting patients residing in rural communities. Estimates indicate that 5%–8% of adult cancer patients enroll in clinical trials, with participation rates declining further among individuals living in geographically underserved areas [, ]. Rural populations experience persistent structural and geographical barriers that limit access to specialized oncology services and research opportunities, contributing to inequities in cancer outcomes and survival [, ]. Geographic disparities in healthcare infrastructure, including shortages of oncology specialists and limited availability of clinical research programs, further exacerbates these challenges []. The underrepresentation of rural populations in CCTs is driven by multiple interrelated factors. Distance from medical centers, transportation barriers, financial constraints, and limited awareness of available research opportunities are consistently identified as significant obstacles [, ]. According to The American Association for Cancer Research, misconception about clinical research and safety concerns may reduce willingness to participate among the underserved populations []. Healthcare workforce shortages in rural communities further restrict opportunities for patients to receive information, referrals or support related to clinical trial enrollments []. Addressing these disparities requires targeted multilevel interventions that improve access to clinical trials, enhance patient education, and strengthen connection between rural health care systems and research institutions []. The purpose of this manuscript is to elucidate the barriers that rural Floridians face when considering clinical trial participation. Furthermore, we aim to understand strategies to improve access to clinical trials through targeted interventions. The study highlights the structural, logistical, and emotional barriers to clinical trial participation and suggests interventions such as research navigation to improve awareness, reduce barriers, and support enrollment. These findings are intended to inform future interventions aimed at promoting equitable clinical trial access in underserved rural communities.