HR5030/S2706: DIVERSE Trials Act

Federal
Written By Kira Sano

How can we treat certain individuals when we have no research regarding them?

We cannot; however, there is one important bill that could make this happen: the Diversifying Investigations Via Equitable Research Studies for Everyone (DIVERSE) Trials Act. The DIVERSE Trials Act is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to increase the diversity of clinical trial participants by requiring that sponsors and investigators make a good faith effort to enroll a representative sample of individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, as well as individuals with disabilities, in their clinical trials.

This bill builds on work on the federal level to reduce health disparities through more inclusive research. More specifically, the DIVERSE Trials Act furthers the work from the famed Henrietta Lacks Enhancing Cancer Research Act that directs the federal government to study policies that impact diverse participation in federally sponsored cancer clinical trials nationwide and recommend potential policy changes that would reduce barriers. This act was created in honor of a Black woman who died from cervical cancer and whose cells, taken without her knowledge or consent during her treatment, have been used to develop some of modern medicine’s most important breakthroughs, including the development of the polio vaccine and treatments for cancer, HIV/AIDS and Parkinson’s disease.

What’s the issue at hand?

What's the issue at hand?

What's the issue at hand?

“What’s the ”
— Quote Source

There are many reasons as to why this bill is a necessity.

Firstly, diverse clinical trial populations are essential for ensuring that the results of a clinical trial are generalizable to a larger population.

If a clinical trial only includes a narrow range of individuals, it may not be possible to accurately determine the safety and effectiveness of a treatment for a diverse population. This can lead to treatments being approved that are only effective for certain groups, while others may not benefit from them or may even experience negative side effects.

Secondly, the lack of diversity in clinical trial populations has been a long-standing issue that has contributed to health disparities in certain communities.

Many underrepresented groups have historically been excluded from clinical trials, leading to a lack of data on the effectiveness of treatments for these groups. This lack of data can result in a lack of access to necessary treatments for these communities, leading to poorer health outcomes and perpetuating health disparities.

Furthermore, the Diverse Trials Act also addresses the issue of "therapeutic misconception," which occurs when clinical trial participants do not fully understand the purpose or potential risks and benefits of participating.

This is especially prevalent among underrepresented groups who may not have as much access to information about clinical trials and may be more vulnerable to exploitation. The Diverse Trials Act requires that sponsors and investigators provide additional resources and information to ensure that all participants fully understand the purpose and potential risks and benefits of a clinical trial.

At the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, we have had thousands of volunteers who have communicated with Congress and have urged them to co-sponsor and pass the bill when it reaches Congress. We have had much success. 

We really believe in the importance of the DIVERSE Trials Act, and there are ways that we urge you to help join the fight alongside us.

  • One way is to contact elected officials and let them know that support for the Diverse Trials Act is desired. Writing letters, making phone calls, or visiting their offices in person are all effective ways to advocate for this legislation.

  • Another way to help is by educating others about the importance of diversity in clinical trials. Sharing information about the Diverse Trials Act and the importance of diversity with friends, family, and social media followers can increase support for this legislation.

  • Finally, joining advocacy organizations such as the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network that work towards increasing diversity in clinical trials and advocating for related legislation is another way to make a difference. We and other organizations often have campaigns and events that individuals can participate in to raise awareness and advocate for change.

The Diverse Trials Act is a crucial step towards ensuring clinical trials accurately reflect the diverse populations they serve and towards reducing health disparities. Through advocating for this legislation and taking steps to promote diversity in clinical trials, individuals can play a vital role in promoting equity in healthcare.

Kira Sano

Testing

https://acscanemergingleaders.org
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