Finding some racial equity in UI clinical trials
Howard University College of Medicine and the National Hispanic Council on Aging introduce UI clinical trials specifically for Hispanic women
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WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Howard University College of Medicine and the National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCOA), have recently publicized a partnership to introduce a pilot clinical trial program for older Hispanic women with urinary incontinence (UI). The study, entitled “Multimodal Community Program for Older Hispanic Women with Urinary Incontinence,” is funded by the Georgetown-Howard Universities Center for Clinical and Translational Science, and sponsored by the National Institute on Aging.
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine that affects 16 percent of all U.S. women. Risk factors include obstetric deliveries, obesity, smoking and mobility limitations. Among U.S. Hispanic populations, UI symptoms are reportedly higher than 36 percent, but access to treatment remains a critical concern.
“Urinary Incontinence rates among Hispanic women are comparable to Caucasians and African Americans but barriers to healthcare access are prevalent in the Hispanic community,” said Dr. Tatiana Sanses, Associate Professor, Howard University College of Medicine, Chief, Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Urogynecology. “Clinical trial participation is critically important for Hispanics and our partnership with the NHCOA offers patients access to a wealth of undiscovered resources and advanced treatment options to improve their health outcomes.”
Hispanic women are largely underrepresented in clinical trial research. Barriers to access can include income, language, lack of access to healthcare, education, cultural influences and negative attitudes towards research participation. As a result, clinicians have a difficult time determining how Hispanic women with UI may differ from other races, which causes a lack of individualized treatment and culturally tailored care.
“As one of the largest ethnic groups in the U.S., Latinos make up 18 percent of the population. However, only one percent participates in clinical trial research,” noted Dr. Yanira Cruz, President and CEO of NHCOA. “The National Hispanic Council on Aging is proud to partner with The Howard University College of Medicine on such a strategic endeavor to ensure equal, inclusive and affordable treatment for everyone.”
The clinical trial program aims to raise awareness about UI, as well as enhance the quality of life in older Hispanic women. The desired candidates are Hispanic women who are 65 years or older with symptoms of UI, and will be selected by a medical study team through a standardized screening process. The study is planned to be completed by March 2019. To apply for the program, please make contact at 202-865-1164.
