Disparity of Equitable Representation in Cancer Clinical Trials: Nursing Perspectives

Racial and ethnic minority groups are underrepresented in cancer clinical trials. The lack of underrepresented groups limits valid analyses of racial and ethnic differences in response to treatment. This can contribute to cancer-related disparities as well as worsening morbidity and mortality in these populations. This article explores how oncology nurse clinicians can help improve recruitment and retention of participants from racial and ethnic minority groups in cancer clinical trials.

At a Glance:

• Oncology nurses can be cognizant of individual and systemic barriers that prevent people from racial and ethnic minority groups from partici­pating in cancer clinical trials.
• Oncology nurses may use interprofessional approaches and community-based participato­ry research to increase cancer trial participation among underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.
• Oncology nurses can advocate for diverse representation in clinical trials by pushing for policy changes and making concerted efforts to allocate resources for individuals from low resource settings.