Although most health professionals accept that randomisation in clinical trials is important there is evidence that patients may not understand randomisation (either the word or the concept) and may not accept its validity. A study in North Staffordshire UK has shown that, while most people understand randomisation, many do not accept it.

The participants were 130 students at five further education and leisure courses. They varied in age from 18 to 70 years (mean 32 years) and in occupation from unskilled to professional. Two thirds were …