5 Building Blocks To Achieving Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion In Clinical Research

By Maimah Karmo, Tigerlily Foundation; Amy Sitnick, Greenphire; Del Smith, Acclinate; Stephen Walker, CSL Behring; and Kate Wilson, Biogen

Clinical trials depend on volunteers, and it's crucial that they represent a wide range of backgrounds. Nevertheless, it has been documented that 85% of clinical research participants are of Caucasian descent.

While the aspiration to enhance diversity in clinical trials is not a new one, the industry has recently reaffirmed its commitment to effecting change. In fact, a recent Greenphire survey revealed that 84% of sponsors and Contract Research Organizations (CROs) expressed a goal of "increasing diversity among clinical trial participants, including underrepresented populations based on ethnicity, socioeconomic status, geographic location, gender, and more."

During a panel discussion at DIA's Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Across Life Sciences R&D meeting, industry experts explored strategies for enhancing the engagement of diverse populations in clinical trials. Gain insight from several tactics emphasized during the discussion that could arguably contribute to enhancing the diversity and inclusivity of studies throughout the entire clinical trial process.