If We Would Only Ask: How Henrietta Lacks Continues to Teach Us About Perceptions of Research and Genetic Research Among African Americans Today.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-1-2017

Identifier

DOI: 10.1007/s40615-016-0277-1

Abstract

BACKGROUND: African Americans are under-represented in research, and there are perceptions of unwillingness among African Americans to participate in research. We explored barriers to African American research participation.

METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional survey to explore knowledge and beliefs regarding medical and genetic research among adults (n = 169) at urban community events. Descriptive data were summarized by frequencies for survey responses.

RESULTS: Only 13 % of respondents had ever been approached for research; 93 % of those who had been approached for research had participated. Eighty-six percent of those who had previous research experience indicated willingness to participate again vs. only 30 % among those with no research experience. Seventy-four percent had altruistic views of research; 28 % were concerned about truthfulness of researchers; 52 % feared incidental discoveries.

CONCLUSION: African Americans have favorable views of research; however, few are being engaged in studies. Effective interventions to address identified barriers may improve participation and lead to better health outcomes among African Americans.

Journal Title

J Racial Ethn Health Disparities

Volume

4

Issue

4

First Page

735

Last Page

745

MeSH Keywords

Adolescent; Adult; African Americans; Aged; Biomedical Research; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Genetic Research; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Health Status Disparities; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Midwestern United States; Research Subjects; Surveys and Questionnaires; Urban Population; Young Adult

Keywords

Racial Disparities; Genetics; Research

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