Increasing ethnic and racial representation in clinical trials

Medicines and vaccines sometimes work differently in different groups of people, which is why diversity in clinical trials is so important. Diverse representation in clinical studies helps scientists better understand and address health disparities in gender, age, race and ethnicity, and is needed to help identify and research differences in clinical outcomes.

Historically, some racial and ethnic groups have been underrepresented in clinical trials. There are barriers to participation, some of which are higher for people of color. They include language barriers, distrust of medical researchers and the health care system, low levels of awareness and limited access to clinical trials.

What is Pfizer doing to increase ethnic and racial diversity in our clinical trials? We are committed to reducing disparities and ensuring that the participants in our clinical trials reflect the racial demographics of the countries and communities in which we conduct our studies. Using a data-driven approach, Pfizer chooses investigative sites in communities that represent a diverse pool of potential participants, to make it easier for people living in the community to participate. Pfizer is also doing more to engage diverse health care providers and patient advocacy partners and build relationships with local organizations who are trusted voices and resources for patients.

A critical component of improving access to clinical trials is making it easier for patients to find information about potential trials available to them. Also, Pfizer knows it is important to provide culturally-sensitive materials tailored to patients in languages they can easily read.

Ensuring diversity in clinical trials is a matter of equity and representation. Everyone deserves a chance to volunteer for a clinical trial and participate. More information about specific clinical trials is available on Pfizer’s website, CenterWatch and ClinicalTrials.gov.