Multiple sclerosis in US minority populations: Clinical practice insights. Issue 2 (April 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Khan, Omar; Williams, Mitzi J.; Amezcua, Lilyana; Javed, Adil; Larsen, Kristin E.; Smrtka, Jennifer M.
• Is Part Of: Neurology. Volume 5:Issue 2(2015)
• Publication Date: 2015-04
• Subjects: Nervous system -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Neurology -- Periodicals; Neurology -- United States -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1212/CPJ.0000000000000112
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2163-0402

Abstract

Abstract : Summary: The heterogeneity of multiple sclerosis (MS) characteristics among various ethnic minority populations is a topic of recent interest. However, these populations are consistently underrepresented in clinical trials, leading to limited data on the effectiveness of treatments in these groups of patients and lack of an evidence-based approach to treatment. In order to achieve optimal disease management in the ethnic minority MS populations, a better understanding of the regional, socioeconomic, and cultural influences that result in underrepresentation of these groups in clinical trials is needed. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to identify the genetic factors that influence disease disparity in these minority populations. Suggestions for the identification and implementation of best practices for fostering the trust of ethnic minority patients with MS and enhancing their participation in clinical trials are offered.