At Radicle Science, we believe that everyone deserves equal representation in clinical trials. We understand that historically, women, minorities, and rural populations have been underrepresented in these trials, and we are determined to change that. Our mission is to ensure that clinical trials are truly diverse, inclusive and accessible to all, breaking down barriers and creating a more equitable healthcare system.
Equal Females and Males in our Supplement Clinical Trials
Women experience adverse drug reactions at nearly twice the rate of men, due to the lack of female representation in traditional clinical trials. “Most drugs currently in use were approved based on clinical trials conducted on men, so women may be overmedicated,” according to researchers at UC Berkeley and the University of Chicago.
Since the summer of 2021, we have made significant strides in achieving gender parity within our studies. Over 30,000 Americans have participated in our supplement clinical trials, with approximately 54% identifying as female. We’re proud to say that we have shattered the glass ceiling when it comes to female representation.
Inclusion of Rural Populations
But it doesn’t stop there. We go beyond traditional academic medical centers, reaching out to communities that otherwise may not have access to these trials. Our supplement clinical trials are 100% remote, allowing us to include populations that have traditionally been excluded from clinical trials, which are mostly in metro areas. This means that individuals residing outside major metropolitan areas finally have a fair opportunity to participate.
Of all our participants, 20% are located outside of metropolitan areas, reflecting the most recent Census population distribution. This figure is not based solely on population density calculations, but also incorporates traffic flows and commuting patterns to and from each ZIP code; this gives us a more accurate picture of these 20% of participants who would otherwise have very limited access to in-person trials.
The Importance of DEI in Clinical Trials for Everyone
Representation matters, and we are committed to ensuring that people of color have a voice in our studies. Approximately 20% of our participants are people of color – and growing with each study. We’ve already outpaced the 2% to 16% seen in most trials, as reported by the Harvard Business Review. We are particularly proud of the fact that American Indians/Alaskan Natives make up 3.1% of our study population, despite only comprising 1.3% of Census estimates.
At Radicle Science, we recognize that addressing demographic disparities in clinical trials is not just a challenge, but an opportunity for truly personalized medicine. Our mission is to bridge these gaps and bring traditionally underrepresented populations into our studies for true representation. Knowing that different genders and ethnicities can metabolize ingredients differently – and may respond to different doses – we are dedicated to uncovering these medical advances for all Americans. Our research uncovers the right ingredients at the right dosages for the right person.
Join us in our audacious journey to bring true DEI into clinical trials. At Radicle Science, inclusivity is in our DNA, and we are committed to making a difference. Together, we can transform the landscape of medical research and create a future where everyone has equal and fair access to natural cutting-edge treatments and therapies.
Interested in joining our mission? Volunteer for our supplement clinical trials! Brands, learn more about how our democratized clinical trials make research easily accessible and affordable for non-pharmaceuticals for the first time in history!
References:
1. Zucker, I., Prendergast, B.J. Sex differences in pharmacokinetics predict adverse drug reactions in women. Biol Sex Differ 11, 32 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13293-020-00308-5
2. Giusti, K. Hamermesh, R. Karsnow, M. Adressing Demographic Disparities in Clinical Trials. Harvard Business Review. June 11, 2021. https://hbr.org/2021/06/addressing-demographic-disparities-in-clinical-trials