Our Science
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
IN OUR CLINICAL TRIALS
Not all people respond to a medicine in the same way. Diversity of age, sex, race, ethnicity, and other factors in clinical trials is critical in evaluating the effectiveness and safety of potential new treatments for all people who may benefit from them. At Alnylam, we are committed to working toward increased diversity, equity, and inclusion in our clinical trials.
Historical Context
Historically, many minority communities have been underrepresented in or mistreated by clinical research. The impacts of this are many, including ongoing bias in drug development, inequality in how people access health-care and mistrust of the pharmaceutical industry. Combined with other factors, this has resulted in lower life expectancies and poorer quality of life among many minority populations.
Our Efforts
We are taking tangible steps in the design and management of our clinical trials to lower barriers to participation and ensure more diverse representation. These efforts include:
- Engaging minority communities directly to educate about clinical trials, demonstrate transparency, and build trust
- Engaging health care providers that serve underserved communities
- Structuring trial protocols to maximize participation of under represented populations
- Setting appropriate goals for enrollment of diverse populations in our trials
- Working with our partners and experts in the field to identify investigators and sites in communities serving racially and ethnically diverse populations
- Ensuring that clinical trials-related communications and materials are culturally appropriate and accessible