Study Identifies Key Barriers and Potential Solutions to Boost Black Patient Participation in MS Trials
Researchers have identified critical barriers to clinical trial participation among Black patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and proposed strategies to improve engagement. The findings were presented at CMSC 2025 and highlight the need for tailored recruitment and retention methods to address longstanding disparities in MS research.
Using a 4-phase qualitative design, the researchers conducted a narrative literature review, convened expert panels of scientists and community leaders, and interviewed Black patients with MS with prior trial experience. Data from each phase informed the next, allowing for a progressive understanding of the challenges and possible interventions.
Three major categories of barriers emerged: personal or internal, environmental, and health care system-related. Personal barriers included mistrust, lack of awareness, and logistical burdens. Environmental barriers reflected limited access to research sites or support systems. Health care provider and system barriers included a lack of provider knowledge about MS in Black patients and insufficient referral to trials.
The study aligned specific strategies to each barrier category. Recommendations include building trust through transparency and long-term community relationships, employing diverse research teams reflective of study populations, leveraging trusted sources to share trial opportunities, and reducing logistical burdens through flexible, low-tech participation options and financial travel support.
Additionally, the study emphasized the role of clinicians. Educating providers about the high prevalence of MS in Black populations and equipping them to guide patients toward trials is a critical step.
“The underrepresentation of Black patients in MS research has limited the understanding of its prevalence, disease course, and treatment in this group,” the researchers stated. Addressing this gap is essential for equitable MS care and the development of therapies that reflect the needs of all patients.
Reference
Wingo BC, Flint A, Glasscock L, Hurley C, Roberts J, Turner T. Targeted approaches for minority engagement in multiple sclerosis research (TAME MS): exploration of barriers to clinical trial participation and strategies for engagement among Black adults with MS. Presented at: CMSC 2025; May 28-31; Phoenix, AZ.
