A recent study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology reveals significant racial and ethnic disparities in gynecologic oncology clinical trial enrollment. The analysis of studies from 1997 to 2021 shows that underrepresented racial and ethnic groups are largely excluded from these potentially life-saving trials.
The research highlights a troubling trend: while survival rates for ovarian cancer increased among White patients between 1990 and 2009, they decreased among Black patients. Moreover, Black patients face a twofold higher mortality rate for endometrial and cervical cancers compared to their White counterparts.
Dr. Lee and colleagues examined 1,597 gynecologic oncology studies, finding that race was reported in only 62.5% of cases and ethnicity in just 29.4%. The data showed stark disparities in representation. White patients comprised 80% of trial participants, while Black patients accounted for only 9% and Asian patients for 3%.
The odds of Black patients being represented in ovarian cancer trials were 15 times lower than for White patients. For uterine and cervical cancer trials, the odds were 9 and 5 times lower, respectively. Asian and Pacific Islander patients faced even greater underrepresentation.
The study’s authors conclude that these disparities require urgent attention. They recommend priority alignment, changes in funding mechanisms, and increased collaboration among sponsors to address the issue.
As clinical trial participation is linked to improved survival rates, these findings underscore the critical need to increase diversity in gynecologic oncology research to reduce health disparities and improve outcomes for all patients.
See “Racial and ethnic disparities found in gynecologic oncology clinical trial enrollment” (January 15, 2024)
