Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Clinical Research: A Call to Action for the Arab American Community

In recent times, there have been significant developments in the realm of clinical research and diversity inclusion efforts. The FDA’s diversity guidance, WHO’s diversity guidelines, and the proposal to recognize individuals in the United States with Middle Eastern and North African ancestry as a distinct group in the 2030 U.S. census have brought to light the need for increased representation of the Arab American community in clinical trials. Addressing the challenges faced by this community in participating in clinical research and promoting diversity and inclusion is crucial.

The “Arab Board for Clinical Research” is taking proactive steps to lead discussions on best practices and to establish an industry platform that responds effectively to this emerging demand.

Challenges Faced by the Arab American Community

Challenges include limited awareness and access, language and cultural barriers, specific educational requirements, and networking and connections.

A significant portion of the Arab American community lacks knowledge about career opportunities in clinical research. Limited access to information about available positions, educational requirements, and necessary skills hinders their entry into the field.

Language poses a significant challenge for individuals who primarily speak Arabic or have limited proficiency in English. Clinical research often requires strong communication skills, and language barriers can hinder opportunities and qualifications.

Positions in clinical research typically require specific educational backgrounds or degrees, which may be inaccessible to many in the Arab American community.

Building professional networks is crucial for career advancement. However, Arab Americans may face challenges in establishing these networks, especially if they are new to the field or the country.

Proposed Strategies for Increasing Diversity and Inclusion

To maximize diversity and inclusion in clinical trial enrollment within the Arab American community, the “Arab Board for Clinical Research” is proposing the implementation of the following strategies:

• Establishing community engagement initiatives
• Developing culturally and linguistically appropriate materials
• Providing language services
• Creating patient advocacy and support groups
• Training culturally competent staff
• Collaborating with Arab American healthcare providers
• Designing inclusive studies
• Increasing representation in research teams
• Ensuring transparent communication

This includes actively engaging with the Arab American community through outreach programs, community events, and partnerships with grassroots organizations to raise awareness about clinical trials and their benefits.

Educational materials tailored to the Arab American community should be developed and distributed in Arabic, addressing cultural norms, values, and concerns.

Professional interpreters or translators should be provided to facilitate effective communication between research staff and potential participants with limited English proficiency.

Patient advocacy programs or support groups can provide guidance, information, and emotional support to Arab American individuals interested in participating in clinical trials.

Research staff should be trained to be culturally competent and sensitive to the needs and preferences of Arab American participants.

Partnerships with Arab American healthcare providers, clinics, and hospitals should be fostered to promote clinical trial opportunities, address participant concerns, and ensure culturally appropriate care.

Clinical trials should consider the specific needs and preferences of the Arab American community when designing studies, including factors such as study location and visit scheduling to accommodate religious practices.

Representation from the Arab American community should be actively sought within research teams and leadership roles to address unique challenges and foster a more inclusive research environment.

Collaboration with Arab American researchers and experts can drive research initiatives that are relevant and responsive to the community’s needs.

Clear communication of goals, benefits, risks, and outcomes of clinical trials must be ensured so that potential Arab American participants can make informed decisions.

By Hadi Danawi, Ph.D.
Chair and President, Arab Board for Clinical Research

Hadi Danawi, Ph.D.

Hadi Danawi, Ph.D., is a professor in global public health and epidemiology. He is actively engaged in industrywide projects relating to remote consulting, higher education (master and doctoral programs in public health/healthcare administration), and clinical trial design and management. Danawi created the Arab Board for Clinical Research and the MENASA Group to promote diversity and inclusion of Arab Americans in clinical research and to promote the use of Decentralized Clinical Trials (DCTs) as well as the education and staffing of Arabs and Arab Americans in clinical research.

Danawi has expertise with pharmaco-epidemiology and drug safety/pharmacovigilance with Big Pharma, including outcomes research and RWE. He is passionate about creating positive social change in underserved communities in Africa and the Middle East and so established a not-for-profit organization with chapters in Lebanon and Ghana to provide technical assistance for project implementation, curriculum development, and training of local associates for self-reliance in disease prevention, health services, and family and community health initiatives.