Cultural Inclusivity in Clinical Trial Research

Many principal investigators design studies based on their primary study hypothesis, study focus and outcome variables. Rarely are participant demographic and cultural factors considered during the planning and design stages. Culturally inclusive research methods should be included in every aspect of the clinical trial study protocols. Some of these methods include selecting culturally relevant and appropriate research instruments and outcome measures; recruiting participants from sites that provide services to primarily ethnic minority consumers; hiring multicultural and bilingual research staff (especially patient navigators); providing study incentives that may be more beneficial to underserved minorities (e.g., grocery gift cards; transportation and childcare services); creating a welcoming and culturally friendly environment; and incorporating family and friends into the recruitment process. The efforts made by clinicians to integrate culturally inclusive methods into healthcare treatment have gained national attention. Since research informs practice, it is also time for these methods to be infused into clinical trial research practices. This infusion can lead to an increase in perception of clinical trial research, participation, and retention of ethnic minority participants and decrease the chances of unethical and discriminatory practices.