The International Network for Research Outcomes in Adolescent Depression Studies
The International Network for Research Outcomes in Adolescent Depression Studies (IN-ROADS) Initiative has been focused on the development of a Core Outcome Set (COS) for use in clinical trials for assessing treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD) in adolescents 12 to 18 years of age.
Youth with lived experience, the caregivers who support these youth in collaboration with clinicians and researchers from around the world have been involved in the process of developing an evidence-based COS through a consensus-based process.
The Problem:
Depression is an increasingly common mental health condition that develops in children and adolescents - most commonly in early adolescence. Depression impacts all aspects of an adolescent’s life, however, there is limited agreement on the most effective treatment.
A key challenge lies in the lack of standardization in outcome selection and measurement across clinical trials. This inconsistency makes it difficult to compare results, synthesize evidence, and apply findings to clinical practice.
A recent scoping review of the clinical studies conducted in adolescents (ages 12 to 18 years of age) with depression between 2008 and 2017 noted 32 unique studies. Across these studies there were 86 unique outcomes selected which were measured using 118 different outcome measurement instruments (OMIs).
This variability in selected outcomes and measurement tools undermines our ability to draw robust conclusions about treatment efficacy and limits the application of evidence to clinical practice and decision-making.
The Solution - A Core Outcome Set:
The Results of This Project:
This project will have a global impact by developing a COS for adolescent depression trials. This COS, which will incorporate outcomes that are meaningful and impactful to youth and caregivers, and will be freely available to researchers worldwide to use. The outputs of this project will lead to improved research quality and efficiency, ultimately enabling greater understanding of what treatments work best for which patients, better child and youth mental health outcomes and better health system utilization.
Check out the videos below for more information about the IN-ROADS Initiative!