Improving access for and experience of transgender and non-binary patients in clinical research: Insights from a transgender patient focus group and targeted literature reviews.
Contemp Clin Trials 2023;
131:107243. [PMID:
37245727 DOI:
10.1016/j.cct.2023.107243]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
The transgender and non-binary communities make up a significant, growing proportion of the population, but, to date, few clinical trials report including transgender and non-binary individuals.
METHODS
As part of a mixed-method approach, multiple literature searches for articles published from January 2018 to July 2022 and a Patient Advisory Council (a semi-structured patient focus group) meeting were conducted to identify challenges faced by the transgender and non-binary communities when accessing healthcare and participating in clinical research. A set of guidelines to promote inclusivity in clinical research was developed using these findings.
RESULTS
During this time period, only 107 (0.08%) of 141,661 published articles of clinical trials reported participation of transgender or non-binary patients. A targeted search identified only 48 articles reporting specific barriers to inclusion in clinical research, while an expanded search identified 290 articles reporting barriers to healthcare access for transgender and non-binary patients. Several key considerations to promote study inclusivity emerged from the literature searches and Patient Advisory Council: adjust clinical protocols, informed consent documents, and data collection forms to distinguish sex assigned at birth from gender identity; involve members of the transgender and non-binary communities in research whenever possible; provide communication training to personnel involved in clinical research; and maximize accessibility for potential participants.
CONCLUSION
Future research on investigational drug dosing and drug interactions in transgender and non-binary patients, along with regulatory guidance, are recommended to ensure clinical trials' processes, designs, systems, and technologies are transgender and non-binary patient-friendly, inclusive, and welcoming.
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