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Cancer disproportionately affects people of color, and Johnson & Johnson’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion helps treatment reach every patient.
The rate of cancer-related deaths among Black people has reduced, but this community still experiences the highest rate of cancer deaths among any racial or ethnic population. One in three Black Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.
Black people also face more challenges in clinical trials. Seventy-three percent of clinical trial participants are white, compared to 14% Asian American, 6% Hispanic and 5% Black. Healthcare providers are less likely to ask people of color to participate in clinical trials. Individuals from underserved communities are also less likely to be able to participate due to time restraints or transportation restrictions.
Johnson & Johnson has contributed $5 million to Stand Up to Cancer to increase DEI in clinical trials. When all patients have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials, researchers will be able to determine if a treatment works equally well in all patients. This also ensures that members of underserved communities have equal access to innovative treatments.
“One critical way to reduce cancer health disparities is to make clinical trials more representative of patients,” the company said. “That’s why Johnson & Johnson is collaborating with partners to build and promote the advancement of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in clinical trials and reduce the many barriers preventing equitable trials from happening.”
