Improving African American Participation in U.S. Oncology Trials Through Community Partnerships, Trusted Messengers, and Decentralized Clinical Recruitment Strategies

Author

Deryl Hasbifa


Abstract

 Equitable participation in oncology trials is essential for generating evidence that reflects population diversity and supports fair access to emerging cancer therapies. In the United States, African American participation remains constrained by structural exclusion, unequal referral opportunities, financial burdens, geographic barriers, and mistrust associated with historical and ongoing discrimination. This proposed narrative review examines how community partnerships, trusted messengers, and decentralized recruitment strategies can address these interconnected challenges. The review will synthesize literature on partnerships with community organizations, churches, patient advocates, and local healthcare providers; communication delivered by trusted clinicians and community leaders; and recruitment models incorporating remote consent, telehealth, satellite clinics, and navigation support. Particular attention will be given to institutional accountability, culturally responsive communication, transparent eligibility criteria, and practical assistance with transportation, childcare, and digital access. A multilevel framework will connect community engagement with clinical referral practices and trial design, emphasizing shared governance and sustained relationships. Evaluation priorities will include recruitment, enrollment, retention, participant experience, and representativeness. The review aims to inform strategies that expand participation while safeguarding informed consent, reducing participation burdens, and strengthening equitable research access.



Keywords

African Americans; Oncology clinical trials; Community partnerships; Trusted messengers; Decentralized recruitment; Health equity.



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References


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