New focus group data reveals that people with lupus may be more likely to participate in clinical drug trials if key barriers are addressed. Among the 23 people with lupus interviewed, most reported that more flexible participation scheduling to accommodate work and childcare needs, improved access to facilities, less time-consuming paperwork, advance notice of studies and hope for disease improvement would encourage trial participation.
Of those interviewed for the study, 65% represented minority groups, providing greater insights into the perceptions and experiences of minority populations living with the disease. Although lupus disproportionately affects people in minority racial groups, they are significantly underrepresented in clinical trials in the United States.
When asked about the advantages of participating in clinical trials, people widely agreed that it was necessary for new drug discovery, improving research, and providing answers to the unknown questions about lupus. Some people also expressed that participating in clinical trials provided access to otherwise expensive, and consequently unobtainable, drugs.
Recruiting a diverse mix of people for drug studies is essential to ensure treatment research accurately reflects the true lupus patient population and equally benefits those living with the disease. The latest findings underscore the importance of addressing these common challenges when designing drug studies to promote drug research participation across racial groups. Learn more about the ins and outs of participating in a clinical study.
