Nearly 40% of the U.S. population consists of people of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Due to a long history of mistrust and societal barriers, African Americans and Hispanics are among the people that are vastly underrepresented in clinical trials accounting for only 5% of enrollees. As a result, the lack of diversity has led to an increased risk of misdiagnosis and adverse patient outcomes. Abbott has identified four key barriers patients face when it comes to diversity and inclusion in clinical trials and putting programs in place to address them. This presentation will address the barriers and recommendations on best practices. They are:
- Barrier: Lack of Trust – There is a historic fear about participating in clinical trials.
- Barrier: Lack of Access (Physicians and Patients) Barrier: Lack of Understanding – There is a tremendous lack of understanding about the benefits to self or the community through participation in a clinical trial.
- Barrier: Lack of a Common Language The presentation will address these inequities, recommendations for clinical trials and how to increase diversity within trial sites.
As the director of clinical R&D for Abbott’s vascular business and a member of Abbott’s Diversity in Research office, Jennifer is a passionate advocate for diversity in clinical trials. Jennifer’s commitment to driving positive change is reflected in her strategic efforts to ensure the company’s approach to inclusivity in clinical trials.