Seven Strategies to Integrate Equity within Translational Research in Neurology

Abstract

The rapidly accelerating translation of biomedical advances is leading to revolutionary therapies that are often inaccessible to historically marginalized populations. We identified and synthesized recent guidelines and statements to propose 7 strategies to integrate equity within translational research in neurology: (1) learn history; (2) learn about upstream forces; (3) diversify and liberate; (4) change narratives and adopt best communication practices; (5) study social drivers of health and lived experiences; (6) leverage health technologies; and (7) build, sustain, and lead culturally humble teams. We propose that equity should be a major goal of translational research, equally important as safety and efficacy. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:432-441.

Figure 1.. Schematic representation of equity, safety and efficacy during translational research and healthcare.

Equity is considered a major goal of healthcare, and it is usually addressed after implementation and dissemination of therapies developed during translational research. Safety and efficacy are considered major goals of translational research, and they are usually achieved through scientific rigor and integrity during earlier phases of translational research. Systemic and structural inequities affect all phases of translational research, and they could exacerbate existing healthcare disparities. Thus, equity could also be considered a major goal of translational research, equally important as safety and efficacy (Adapted from the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences website: https://ncats.nih.gov/translation/spectrum).