Clinical Trials Need To Take The Whole Patient Into Account

As the landscape of clinical trials evolves, the call for diversity remains crucial. Despite perceptions of a waning focus on DEI under the current US administration, a global initiative is driving the mission to enhance the representation of underserved populations in clinical research. At the recent ACRP 2025 conference, Citeline convened a panel of experts who passionately discussed the pivotal role of a Diversity Action Plan (DAP) in meeting FDA guidelines. Panelists like Fenwick Eckhardt stressed the necessity of robust data to ensure diverse representation, while Meghan McKenzie from Genentech highlighted the critical need for collecting sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data. Sylvia Baedorf Kassis from the MRCT Center reminded attendees that a lack of representation stifles scientific progress and access to medical advancements.

As Bahador from CISCRP wrapped up the discussion with a focus on community outreach initiatives like the "Journey to Better Health" mobile education unit, aimed at bridging the gap between clinical research and historically marginalized communities. With a focus on inclusivity and cultural relevance, the panelists united in urging a collaborative effort to reshape the future of clinical trials.