INCREASING diversity in research, from basic science to clinical trials, remains essential for advancing equitable healthcare outcomes. This is according to a panel discussion at the Skin of Color Society Scientific Symposium at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. Systemic barriers, however, political pressures, and recruitment challenges continue to threaten progress.
John E. Harris, MD, PhD, professor and chair of dermatology at UMass Chan Medical School, opened the discussion by noting how recent administrative changes have placed diversity efforts under scrutiny. He revealed that his team was instructed to limit the use of the word “diversity” in an NIH-funded vitiligo study report—an alarming trend that could impact research priorities.
Tamia A. Harris-Tryon, MD, PhD, of UT Southwestern Medical Center, emphasized that diversity in research teams extends beyond optics. In her lab, which focuses on basic science using mouse models, diverse perspectives help formulate more comprehensive research questions. “We need a workforce that reflects a range of viewpoints,” she stated. Her team, spanning chemists to clinicians, exemplifies the need for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Ensuring diversity in clinical trials is equally vital. Valerie D. Callender, MD, of Howard University College of Medicine, underscored the need for direct community engagement to build trust and improve recruitment. “You have to go where the patients are—health fairs, churches, community centers—because that’s where trust is built,” she said.
Despite efforts, many underrepresented groups remain hesitant to participate in trials due to historical mistrust. To address this, Harris stressed the need for transparent conversations between researchers and patients. “If we’re testing treatments, they must work for everyone,” he noted.
Shawn G. Kwatra, MD, of the University of Maryland School of Medicine, pointed out the “bottleneck” preventing diverse enrollment in clinical trials. While social media campaigns and outreach efforts are helpful, he argued that academic centers—often located in diverse communities—must invest more resources in recruitment infrastructure.
The panelists agreed that mentorship is crucial for fostering the next generation of diverse scientists. Callender actively involves medical students and fellows in her research, ensuring they see diversity in action. Kwatra stressed the importance of intentional language in scientific publications to normalize inclusivity.
As the landscape of medical research evolves, ensuring diversity remains a priority is not just ethical, it’s essential for scientific progress.
Reference: Healio. Diversity remains paramount in research from basic to clinical stages. March 11, 2025. Available at: https://www.healio.com/news/dermatology/20250311/diversity-remains-paramount-in-research-from-basic-to-clinical-stages. Last accessed: March 11, 2025.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
