Diversity in clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease

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[Text on screen: Karen Hensley Rayburn
Community Relations Director
African American Alzheimer's and Wellness Association of Columbus, Ohio]

Karen Hensley Rayburn:
Hi, I'm Karen Hensley Rayburn, Community Relations Director with the African American Alzheimer's and Wellness Association of Columbus, Ohio. Our goal is to provide educational resources to individuals, physicians, and researchers who assist patients and caregivers dealing with memory problems and Alzheimer's disease. In the U.S., African Americans are at the greatest risk to develop Alzheimer's, because of the tendency for more disease risk factors. For people diagnosed with early Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, clinical research trials may be an option.

African Americans account for just 5% of clinical trial participants in the U.S., which can create blind spots about the effectiveness of treatments for some populations. We're not all the same physiologically, whether it's because of age, illness, or genetic ancestry. We likely all metabolize drugs differently, and as a result, it's imperative that clinical trials include underrepresented groups. Our association is working to do our part to initiate change in our community and ensure that you are aware of local opportunities in research and the importance of your participation.

By participating in a clinical trial, you are taking a more active role in your own healthcare, getting expert medical care at leading health facilities, helping others by contributing to medical research, and receiving treatment that works for you. When study volunteers participate in research, society benefits, bringing new hope for patients afflicted with different diseases or conditions. Please, let's work together to change the impact of Alzheimer's disease and find solutions for everyone.

[Text on screen: Douglas Scharre, MD
Director, Center for Cognitive and Memory Disorders
Ohio State Wexner Medical Center]

Douglas Scharre, MD:
As a physician and researcher specialized in Alzheimer's disease treatment and care, I see the problems a lack of diverse participants brings to our work. The bottom line, we need drugs that work well in all populations. The only way to ensure this is to increase participation from underrepresented populations in clinical trials. The Ohio State University and my clinic are committed to ensuring Alzheimer's disease clinical trials reflect our population.

I know it's been said a lot, but it is worth saying again, the first people who will benefit from a new Alzheimer's treatment are people who are in a clinical trial. Participation in clinical trials introduces the participant to a world of experts who understand Alzheimer's and the unique challenges that come with the disease. Overall, participating in a clinical trial is most often an unusually rewarding experience for people with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. We need help in making clinical trials reflective of the community at large. 

[Text on screen: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
For clinical trial info, please call 614-293-6882]

If you, a friend or family member are diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer's disease, please contact my clinic at Ohio State at 614-293-6882. Thank you.

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