Closing the circle between minority inclusion in research and health disparities.

Abstract

Increasing participation of minorities in clinical research has been a national scientific priority. Doubt and distrust, however, characterize many minorities' concern about whether their contributions as research participants will be reflected in improved health for them and their communities. What obligations do researchers have in ensuring that the societal benefits of research are enjoyed by underserved communities? What strategies can be used? Drawing on historical examples and recent policy initiatives, we describe how researchers can close the circle between inclusion of minorities in clinical research and reduction of health disparities by fulfilling obligations to methodology and community involvement.