Representation is very important when it comes to clinical trials for lung cancer treatment. Let us understand this better by going through a story.
It was the beginning of the pandemic when Sheena experienced severe pain in her ear. The pain was so terrible that she had no other option but to run to a doctor. Sadly, the doctors failed to pinpoint the exact reason behind this pain. That’s when she decided to consult her primary care physician. The physician did a chest X-ray and noticed a lump in Sheena’s lung.
Soon enough, she was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer. This came to her as a shock as she never did anything which could damage her lungs. After all, she worked in healthcare and was aware of all the dos and don’ts to stay healthy.
Sheena further consulted an oncologist who suggested she go for clinical trials. That seemed the only best option for her. Adhering to the expert’s advice Sheena participated in clinical trials for lung cancer.
Sheena participated in lung cancer clinical trials but several Black women refrain from taking part in clinical trials. Clinical trials are beneficial as they provide access to cutting-edge therapies to the ones who need them. Sadly, Black patients are consistently underrepresented in clinical trials for cancer and there hasn’t been any rise in the number of Black participants over the last decade either.
Studies show that out of the 14% of the total Black Americans, only 3.1% enroll in cancer drug clinical trials. Unfortunately, there’s also been a decline in this number between 2011 and 2015. But the authorities believe that this will soon change and more and more Black Americans will enroll in the clinical trials.
Diversity is important for clinical trials. Therefore, the American Lung Association has launched an “Awareness Trust and Action” campaign to encourage more Black Americans to participate in the trial. The campaign has a thoracic surgeon, a local Pastor, and Sheena who shares testimonials and other information about the importance of diversity in clinical trials.
After enrolling in lung cancer clinical trials, Sheena now takes only a pill to control her cancer each day. The trials are closely monitored and Sheena is always in contact with her physician to address any side effects of the medicine if any occur. She proudly shares her experience with other people in her community and encourages them to enroll in clinical trials. She says she doesn’t want any other Balck American to suffer from lung cancer and even if it happens, she wishes them the best treatment, which is the clinical trial.
After Sheena’s story, we are hoping several other Black Americans would be inspired to go for clinical trials and get the best quality treatment.
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