For too long, communities of color have been underrepresented in clinical research. This lack of diversity means that many treatments are developed without fully understanding how they affect different populations—leading to gaps in care, less effective treatments, and missed opportunities for better health outcomes.

By participating in clinical trials, individuals from diverse backgrounds help shape the future of medicine. Your involvement ensures that new treatments are tested in ways that reflect the real world—leading to more personalized, effective, and equitable healthcare for your community and generations to come.

Participating in a clinical trial is always your choice—and your safety and rights are protected every step of the way:

• Informed Consent

  Before joining a study, you’ll receive detailed information about what to expect. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and must give written consent before participating. You can leave the study at any time.

• Oversight by Institutional Review Boards (IRBs)

  Every clinical trial in the U.S. is reviewed by an IRB—a committee that ensures the study is ethical and that participants are treated fairly and respectfully.

• Confidentiality

  Your personal and medical information is protected and kept confidential, in line with privacy laws and regulations.

• Voluntary Participation

  You are never obligated to stay in a study. You can withdraw at any time, for any reason, without penalty.

Finding a clinical trial that fits your health needs can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. Here are some steps and resources to help guide you:

• Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

  Your doctor or care team can be a great starting point. They may know about trials that match your condition and can help you decide if participation is right for you.

• Search Trusted Online Databases

  • ClinicalTrials.gov: A comprehensive database of clinical studies from around the world. You can search by condition, location, and other filters.

  • Disease-Specific Organizations: Many nonprofits and research institutions offer their own trial finders tailored to specific conditions like cancer, diabetes, or Alzheimer’s.

• Understand Eligibility Criteria

  Every trial has specific requirements—such as age, diagnosis, or treatment history. Review these carefully to see if you might qualify.

• Ask Questions

  If you’re interested in a trial, don’t hesitate to reach out to the research team. Ask about the study’s goals, what participation involves, potential risks and benefits, and your rights as a participant.