At CITE (Community Initiative for Trial Equity), we’re dedicated to advancing health equity by focusing on conditions that disproportionately affect communities of color. We work to ensure these communities are better represented in clinical research—because when trials reflect the diversity of the real world, the treatments that emerge are more effective for everyone.
By building trust, fostering partnerships, and removing barriers to participation, we aim to create a more inclusive research environment—one that leads to better health outcomes and a stronger, more equitable future for all..
Below are health conditions we focus on:
Cardiovascular
Disease
Cardiovascular disease—which includes conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels—is a major health concern in many communities of color. Contributing factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes often go hand in hand, increasing the risk and impact of these conditions.
At CITE, we believe that relevant representation in cardiovascular clinical trials is essential. It helps researchers better understand how these diseases progress in different populations and leads to more effective, personalized treatments. Our work in this area focuses on raising awareness about relevant clinical trials and supporting community members in navigating the process of participation—because everyone deserves access to care that truly reflects their needs.
Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes has a profound impact on communities of color, often appearing earlier and leading to more serious complications. These disparities highlight the importance of inclusive research—because treatments and prevention strategies must work for everyone, not just a few.
At CITE, we’re focused on connecting individuals from underrepresented communities with clinical trials that explore new ways to manage, prevent, and treat diabetes. By raising awareness and offering support throughout the research process, we aim to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from the latest advancements in care.
Cancer
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While breast cancer occurs at similar rates among Black and White women, Black women are more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age and with more aggressive forms, such as triple-negative breast cancer. They also face a significantly higher mortality rate—about 40% higher than White women in the U.S. These disparities highlight the urgent need for research that reflects the unique biological and social factors affecting Black women.
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Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Black men, who are more than twice as likely to die from the disease compared to White men. They’re also more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age and with more advanced disease. Inclusive research is essential to better understand genetic risks, improve screening strategies, and tailor treatments that can save lives.
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Although overall rates of colorectal cancer are declining, Black individuals still have the highest rates of new diagnoses and deaths in the U.S. Barriers like limited access to screening, lifestyle factors, and genetics all play a role. Clinical trials that actively include diverse participants are key to developing prevention and treatment strategies that work for everyone.
Cancer affects people in many different ways, and its impact can vary widely across racial and ethnic groups. In some communities of color, certain cancers are more common, more aggressive, or diagnosed at later stages. That’s why inclusive clinical trials are so important—they help us understand how cancer behaves in different populations and lead to better, more personalized care.
At CITE, we’re working to ensure that communities of color are not left out of cancer research. By promoting awareness and supporting participation in clinical trials, we aim to help close the gap in outcomes and bring more effective treatments to everyone.
Neurology
Neurological conditions like epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease affect millions of people—but not equally. Communities of color often face higher risks, delayed diagnoses, and limited access to specialized care. Despite this, these same communities remain underrepresented in the clinical trials that shape how these conditions are treated.
At CITE, we’re working to change that. We believe that inclusive research is essential to understanding how neurological conditions affect different populations—and to developing treatments that truly work for everyone.
Our efforts in neurology focus on raising awareness, building trust, and supporting participation in clinical trials for conditions like epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease. By ensuring that diverse voices are part of the research process, we’re helping to create a future where brain health is equitable, and every community has access to the best possible care.