Enhancing Diversity in Endometriosis Clinical Trials: Addressing Recruitment and Retention Challenges

A. Dennis, K. Irwin, P. Clark, M. Ghebrehiwet, J. Autaubo, A. Wilson, A. Rosander, S. Bradley, A.I. Ford, M. Vassar

Research output: Contribution to conferencePosterpeer-review

Abstract

Purpose: Our study seeks to evaluate the recruitment and participation of populations that have been historically marginalized in endometriosis clinical trials.

Design Methods: In May of 2024, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE (PubMed), and Embase (Elsevier) were searched to locate studies for inclusion. Inclusion criteria were clinical trials that evaluated endometriosis, articles published between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2023, and studies that were conducted in a country where the Ethnic Fractionalization Index (EFI) was 0.3 or greater. After eligibility screening, data was extracted from 52 clinical trials. The data extracted included general study information, recruitment strategies used to attract a diverse group of participants, any retention-related variables, and/or challenges or difficulties related to the recruitment of participants from historically marginalized groups. General characteristics of included studies and use of recruitment and retention strategies were reported as frequencies and percentages. A correlational analysis was performed comparing general study characteristics according to recruitment and retention strategies.

Results: Out of the 52 studies analyzed, six (11.5%) incorporated targeted recruitment strategies to engage participants from racial and ethnic minority groups. None of the studies indicated diversity goals for participant recruitment. Ten of 52 (19.2%) detailed strategies aimed at mitigating participant dropout rates. One study mentioned challenges related to recruiting participants from diverse populations. The correlational analysis revealed no statistically significant correlations between various study characteristics and the use of recruitment and retention strategies in endometriosis clinical trials.

Discussion/ Conclusion: Our study underscores the critical need for more effective and inclusive recruitment and retention strategies in endometriosis clinical trials. By adopting innovative methodologies, fostering policy changes, and promoting multidisciplinary collaboration, the research community can enhance the inclusivity and efficacy of clinical trials and improve healthcare outcomes for all individuals affected by endometriosis.
Original languageAmerican English
Pages17
StatePublished - 13 Sep 2024
Event2024 Symposium on Tribal and Rural Innovations in Disparities and Equity for Health - Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at the Cherokee Nation, Tahlequah, United States
Duration: 13 Sep 202413 Sep 2024

Conference

Conference2024 Symposium on Tribal and Rural Innovations in Disparities and Equity for Health
Abbreviated titleSTRIDE 2024
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityTahlequah
Period13/09/2413/09/24

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