At the inaugural Black Women in Clinical Research conference, Dr. Jayne Morgan, an acclaimed cardiologist and health educator, delivered a powerful keynote speech on the critical importance of inclusivity, diversity, and equity in clinical trials. Her discussion focused particularly on the challenges posed by racial disparities in remote data monitoring devices, which are becoming increasingly central in Decentralized Clinical Trials (DCTs).
The Unseen Biases in Remote Monitoring Technology
Dr. Morgan provided compelling examples of how standard medical devices, like pulse oximeters, which are pivotal in DCTs, fail to account for racial diversity. These devices, designed and calibrated predominantly on lighter skin tones, often yield inaccurate results for individuals with darker skin. Dr. Morgan highlighted a study showing that black patients are three times more likely to have low oxygen levels undetected by pulse oximeters, a discrepancy that has significant implications for patient safety and trial outcomes.
Data Integrity and Patient Safety in DCTs
Dr. Morgan emphasized that such inaccuracies compromise the integrity of clinical trial data and pose serious risks to patient safety. Inaccurate data from remote monitoring devices can lead to erroneous conclusions about drug efficacy and safety. She pointed out that during the COVID-19 pandemic, these discrepancies had severe consequences, as people of color with undetected low oxygen levels were at a higher risk of inadequate treatment and adverse outcomes.
The Imperative for Diverse Representation in Clinical Trials
A significant portion of Dr. Morgan’s talk was dedicated to advocating for more inclusivity and diversity in clinical trials. She emphasized the importance of designing trials that reflect the entire population, especially given the shift toward patient-centric models and remote data collection. Dr. Morgan argued that inclusivity in clinical trials is a matter of ethical research practice and crucial for ensuring the generalizability and applicability of trial results.
Urgent Need for Rethinking Device Design and Regulation
Dr. Morgan called upon device manufacturers and regulatory bodies to prioritize creating and approving devices that are accurate across diverse populations. This approach is vital to ensure that remote monitoring tools used in DCTs are reliable and effective for all participants. She highlighted the need for rigorous testing and validation processes considering a wide range of skin tones and physiological differences.
Conclusion: A Path Towards Equitable Clinical Research
In conclusion, Dr. Morgan’s keynote was clear and resonant: The future of transformative healthcare and clinical research lies in diversity, equity and inclusivity. She inspired the audience to collectively work towards a clinical trial landscape where every participant, regardless of racial or ethnic background, is represented and considered. Her call to action was a compelling reminder of the responsibility shared by researchers, sponsors, and regulatory authorities in shaping a more equitable and effective clinical trial ecosystem.
Moe Alsumidaie is Chief Editor of The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Moe holds decades of experience in the clinical trials industry. Moe also serves as Head of Research at CliniBiz and Chief Data Scientist at Annex Clinical Corporation.
