The Importance of Clinical Trials: Insights from Five Inspiring Black Women

Clinical trials are crucial studies that evaluate drug efficacy across diverse populations, yet Black women are significantly underrepresented. During a Clinical Trials Day panel, moderated by clinical trials editor Taylyn Washington-Harmon, experts from various sectors highlighted the detrimental effects of this disparity on healthcare outcomes for Black women and discussed various strategies to enhance their involvement. Ricki Fairley, Co-founder of TOUCH, described clinical trials as a data-gathering mechanism that reveals how drugs affect individuals. Dr. Angela James, CEO of Diversity Health NetWoRx, emphasized the unique physiological responses among Black women to medications, stressing the need for tailored approaches in dosing. Kianta Key of GCI Health explained that the low participation is not due to reluctance, but rather a lack of outreach. With enhanced education and communication, they hope to empower Black women in healthcare decisions, underscoring that inclusive clinical trials are vital for effective medicine and improved health outcomes.