How Mobile Research Nurses Positively Impact Social Determinants Of Health

The need for increased diversity among clinical trial participants is well-documented.  Biological differences among different racial and ethnic groups, including variations in genetic codes, can affect a drug’s toxicity and effectiveness. Yet, despite widespread calls to increase diversity in clinical trials, FDA data confirms that over the most recent five-year period, only 7% of study participants were Black or African American and 13% were Hispanic or Latino. Only 1% were American Indian or Alaska Native.

Social determinants of health – defined by the CDC as conditions in the places where people live, learn, work and play – are among the reasons for low participation in clinical trials among minority communities. This is an area in which home research nurses can make a significant positive impact.