Charles Wilcox, PhD, MPA, MBA, Praxis Research Consulting, Newport Beach, CA, discusses discrimination and a lack of diversity in research as two of the major hurdles in the conduction of Alzheimer’s disease clinical trials. These core challenges are an international phenomenon, with reports of discrimination and diversity- and equity-related problems across the world. Not only representing a major barrier to adequate care, discrimination and a lack of diversity are holding back progress in the research world. Dr Wilcox highlights methods to improve these issues globally. He notes that diversity needs to be improved at every stage of the research process, including the study investigators, research staff, nurses, and participants. Improved outreach and recruitment methods are also an important focus. Effectively engaging individuals from ethnically diverse backgrounds will improve outcomes for all. This interview took place at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology congress 2021.
