Inclusion of underrepresented groups in clinical research
The National MS Society is committed to expanding engagement of underrepresented groups in research and in clinical trials so that solutions are developed for everyone affected by multiple sclerosis. Grant proposals for clinical research are required to describe the planned composition of the study population in terms of sex/gender and racial/ethnic diversity. Any exclusions based on sex/gender or race/ethnicity must include a rationale and justification. The Society considers the NIH Guidelines (
link) as an example of an appropriate approach to inclusion of underrepresented groups. Grant proposals must include an outreach plan for recruiting and retaining diverse study participants. The MS Minority Research Engagement Partnership Network has developed
this toolkit to assist researchers in their outreach to underrepresented populations. Additionally, annual reporting must include subject accrual broken down by group.