13 Jun Improving Cardiovascular Research for Transgender and Gender Diverse Populations

By Kirti Salunkhe, ACRP

Transgender and gender diverse (TGGD) individuals face an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). There is an unmet need to identify the root causes of CVD health disparities in this population. More research and evidence-based strategies are needed. Additional factors to be addressed include possible bias and discrimination in healthcare settings, paucity of representation of TGGD competent care providers, and insufficient resources to encourage and accommodate TGGD individuals wanting to participate in clinical research. Regulatory authorities, notably the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have critical roles to play, as do institutional review boards (IRBs), sponsors, investigators, and patient advocates. Recommendations include adopting community-based research methods; employing scientifically and ethically sound study design; revising participant-facing recruitment and research materials to utilize gender-inclusive language; providing TGGD continuing medical education for staff; and engaging patient advocates familiar with issues faced by TGGD individuals. These measures should help to increase TGGD representation in CVD clinical studies, leading to improved treatment options and health outcomes. Read more…