Faith, Fear, and Honor: The Black Journey in Clinical Research | Chekaya Glaspie | TEDxWalnut Street

TL;DR

This talk explores the historical fear and mistrust that prevents African-Americans from participating in clinical research, and emphasizes the importance of faith and community involvement in moving past these barriers.

Transcript

and next we have chakaya glasby with over 15 years of collective clinical trial project management and medical Communications experience she previously worked with some of the largest pharmaceutical and medical device companies in the US trained in gcp and I guidelines and requirements she holds a bachelor's degree in cardio respiratory science fro... Read More

Key Insights

• 😨 Fear and mistrust rooted in historical events, such as the Tuskegee experiment, continue to prevent African-Americans from participating in clinical research.
• 😷 Transgenerational stress and epigenetics play a role in shaping African-Americans' perception of medical research and contribute to the fear experienced.
• 😨 Faith and community involvement are crucial in overcoming fear and increasing African-American participation in clinical research.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are some historical events that contribute to the fear and mistrust of African-Americans towards clinical research?

The Tuskegee experiment, where African-American males were unknowingly treated for syphilis, and other instances of medical mistreatment such as gynecological surgeries without pain medication, have contributed to this fear and mistrust.

Q: How can African-Americans overcome their fear and contribute to clinical research?

By actively recruiting more African-American physicians, increasing cultural competency, partnering with patient recruitment organizations, and addressing the unique needs and concerns of African-Americans, participation can be encouraged and increased.

Q: How does transgenerational stress and epigenetics impact African-Americans' perception of medical research?

The stressors experienced through slavery, discrimination, and other historical events have resulted in the release of chemicals within the body, which can have transgenerational effects, influencing the fear and mistrust towards clinical research.

Q: What is the significance of the Henrietta Lacks story?

Henrietta Lacks, an African-American woman, unknowingly contributed to the development of drugs and treatments through her immortal cell line. This illustrates the potential discoveries that can be made through African-American participation in clinical research.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker discusses the fear of African-Americans towards clinical research, citing historical atrocities and stereotypes that contribute to this mistrust.

• She emphasizes the role of women and the impact of transgenerational stress on the African-American community's perception of medical research.

• Moving forward, the speaker advocates for faith and the need for increased representation of African-Americans in clinical research through recruitment efforts and the establishment of African-American-owned organizations.