Abstract

Clinical research advances medical knowledge and improves healthcare outcomes. However, disparities in research participation hinder progress. The Unmet Research Needs in Spondyloarthritis Conference IV highlighted critical insights and strategies to enhance equity in clinical research. Talks focused on engaging underrepresented communities and addressing disparities in rheumatic diseases, particularly spondyloarthritis (SpA), to ensure research results are generalizable and inclusive. Disparities in SpA management, such as greater back pain severity among Black and Hispanic Americans and sex-based differences in pain management, emphasize the need for equitable research. Dr. Elizabeth Ferucci discussed the racial disparities in rheumatologic care, highlighting the importance of early access to rheumatologists and culturally informed primary care to improve outcomes. Dr. Hani El-Gabalawy's talk on engaging Indigenous communities stressed the importance of community consent and reciprocal benefits. Dr. Sarfaraz Hasni's presentation on mitigating disparities in research participation underscored the need for inclusive practices and strategies to promote diverse representation. Finally, Dr. Edith Williams emphasized institutional approaches to fostering equity, including diverse recruitment practices and institutional review board alignment with diversity priorities. Strategies to enhance equity in clinical research include community engagement, addressing logistical barriers to participation, and ensuring diverse research teams. These approaches can dismantle barriers for underrepresented communities, making research more accessible and reflective of the broader population. The SpA research community must commit to creating structures that foster inclusivity, ensuring medical advancements benefit all populations, especially historically underrepresented groups. The principles and strategies proposed serve as a roadmap for achieving equity in SpA research.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.