Heart Health Clinical Trials: A Black Doctor’s Perspective

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death among Black Americans. Clinical trials are crucial in developing effective treatments and prevention strategies as we strive to address this health disparity. However, the underrepresentation of Black Americans in these trials has long been a concern. Dr. Jayne Morgan, a cardiologist and vice president of Medical Affairs at Hello Heart, sheds light on this issue and explains why participation in heart health clinical trials is vital for the Black community. The Underrepresentation Problem Dr. Morgan highlights the stark reality of the current situation: “By and large, Black people don’t really participate in clinical trials.” This lack of participation stems from historical mistrust and a healthcare system that has not always prioritized the needs of Black Americans. However, this underrepresentation has far-reaching consequences. “Basically, white men are the ones who are enrolled in these trials,” Dr. Morgan explains. “And so the only thing we really know when the FDA approves the data is whether it works or not on white men.” This narrow focus is particularly concerning when considering that “white men only comprise 9 percent of the global population.” The Importance of Representation in Clinical Trials Dr. Morgan emphasizes that...