Experts Called for Greater Clinical Trial Diversity
Panelists identified systemic barriers preventing Black patients from participating in vital medical research.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Cancer
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Experts gathered at a recent legislative conference to address the persistent lack of racial diversity in clinical trials. Despite communities of color making up 40% of the U.S. population, Black Americans remain significantly underrepresented in research that informs standard care.
Why it matters
Clinical trials require data from diverse groups to ensure medicines work safely and effectively for all patients. Because diseases often affect individuals differently based on race, this lack of representation can lead to gaps in treatment efficacy.
A 2022 National Academies report found little progress in minority participation over three decades. Data from 2023 further shows that only 4.4% of Black patients participated in lung cancer clinical trials, compared to 7.2% of white patients.
The players
Merck
A pharmaceutical company focused on vaccines, oncology, and specialty medicines.
National Academies
An organization that provides independent, objective advice on health and science policy.
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
A non-profit organization focused on public policy, research, and education for the Black community.
The details
Systemic barriers continue to hinder recruitment of Black patients into clinical research, according to experts. To improve outcomes, advocates are now providing educational materials like brochures and videos to help patients discuss trial options with their healthcare providers. This effort seeks to bridge the gap in data that currently limits how researchers understand disease progression across diverse populations.
Timeline
2018: Merck began a grassroots effort to improve trial representation.
2022: The National Academies published a report on minority trial participation.
2023: Researchers gathered data on Black patient lung cancer trial participation.
September 25, 2026: A panel discussion was held at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation conference.
Health Landscape
Despite the long-standing goals outlined in the 2022 National Academies report, minority participation in clinical trials has shown little progress over the last thirty years. This persistent gap highlights the challenge of ensuring medical research accurately reflects the U.S. population.
If you are managing a chronic condition or cancer, ask your doctor if a clinical trial might be a safe and appropriate treatment option for you. Using provided educational materials can help you initiate this conversation with your care team.
The takeaway
Understanding clinical trial options is a key step in advocating for your own care, especially when standard treatments may not be tailored to your specific health needs. Discuss the benefits and potential risks of participating in a trial with your physician at your next appointment.
Further reading
For more on the current state of oncology research, see our Cancer section.
More information
Search for ongoing research studies in your area by visiting the federal registry of clinical studies.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Seattle Medium.
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