participants 25% ahead of schedule during the COVID-19 pandemic proving that intentional efforts, involving patients in protocol creation, and addressing practical barriers like childcare and translation services works.
“With the prep that we did on the front end, we were able to recruit these populations successfully more than we imagined. I thought that was a really big win for the study,” Williams adds.
Key Findings and Implications
While still early in the trial, Dr. Williams shares some intriguing findings. Contrary to expectations, there wasn’t a delay in MS diagnosis for Black and Hispanic participants. However, the severity of the disease at diagnosis was notably higher in Black individuals.
Response to therapy mirrored broader clinical trials, suggesting that early diagnosis and appropriate treatment may mitigate outcomes influenced by social determinants of health.
According to a press release, “Additional results from the CHIMES trial showed more than 90% of trial participants had no 24-week confirmed disability progression (94.7% of Black participants; 94.2% of Hispanic / Latinx participants) and no T1-Gd+ lesions (95% of Black participants; 97% of Hispanic / Latinx participants). During the trial period, no new or enlarging T2 lesions were observed in about half of Black participants (46%) and more than half of Hispanic / Latinx participants (64%). No new safety signals were reported.”
The CHIMES trial, which has been extended to three years to gather long-term data on MS progression among Black and Hispanic / Latinx populations, anticipates further results to be available in 2024.”
The Future of Clinical Trials
Looking ahead, Dr. Williams envisions a future where clinical trials are more inclusive from the start, eliminating the need for specialized trials for different demographic groups.
“My hope is that, again, we don’t have to go back and do these additional trials, that we do it well the first time,” she notes.
The lessons learned from this trial can be applied to ongoing and future studies, fostering diversity and reflecting real-world populations.
Dr. Mitzi Joi Williams’ Advice for Those Considering Clinical Trials
Dr. Williams concludes with advice for those considering clinical trials:
- Self-Advocacy: “Recognizing that you are your own best advocate is crucial. Clinical trials can be a great way to be involved in the scientific process.”
- Exploring Alternatives: “Clinical trials are not for everybody. Everyone may not have the time commitment for trials, but there are other ways to be involved in research.”
- Diverse Opportunities: “There are registries, questionnaires, and studies examining various lifestyle factors. I would encourage people to do their homework and explore opportunities that align with their preferences and availability.”
- Contribution to Research: “Being involved in research is not solely confined to clinical trials. There are numerous ways to contribute to our understanding of MS, whether it’s through trials or other types of studies.”
- Stay Informed: “Do your homework and look at some of the websites from our national societies. Understand the research process, and if there’s a way for you to be involved, consider it a valuable contribution to advancing our knowledge of MS.”