Global Language Solutions Blog The Role of Translation in Clinical Trial Management

Recruiting of non-English speakers for U.S.-based and global clinical trials is on the rise. As a result of this, language translation is a critical component of clinical trials management. If done right, translations can play an important role in meeting global product demands. Otherwise, mistakes from poorly done translations can result in product delays, cost overruns, or, even worse, contribute to malpractice or product liability lawsuits. We have addressed the importance of accurate translations in healthcare questionnaires many times. Specifically, using precise translation equivalents for medical terminology to avoid critical and costly mistakes. For example: "replacement dose" is not the same as "additional dose" and "study" or "research" does not equal "treatment."However, what happens when the terms we use in English are not recognizable or understood when translated into another language?Take as an example, the term "wheezing." Most epidemiological studies on pediatric asthma rely on the report of "wheezing" in questionnaires. Several researchers led a study in 2012 to investigate the understanding of this term by parents and health professionals. Questionnaires from 425 parents and 299 health professionals were included.Different meanings for "wheezing" are recognized in Portuguese language and may be influenced by education, respiratory history, and regional terminology. In fact, the study found that the term "wheezing" was not recognized by 34% of parents.These findings are likely applicable to other non-English languages, and suggest the need for more accurate questionnaires and additional objective measurement instruments to study the epidemiology of wheezing disorders.Read the full results of the study here.For similar stories, subscribe to our ePublication, Global Communicator. For professional Portuguese or medical translation services, contact us.