Researchers looked at how digital tools, like online ads and pre-screening websites, could help find people for clinical trials involving atrial fibrillation. The study followed 1,319 people in the United States to see how many people signed up through these online methods and what the costs were for different groups.
The results showed that online ads successfully brought in over 1,400 people. However, the number of participants from minority groups remained low. For example, only 4.5% of those who signed up were African American and 3.3% were Latino. The study also found that while local income levels affected the cost of showing ads, it did not change the number of people from minority groups who signed up.
It is important to note that this was an observational study focused on recruitment methods rather than medical treatment. While digital tools are helpful, the researchers noted that online ads alone might not be enough to fully improve diversity in medical trials. Patients should talk to their doctors about the best ways to participate in clinical research.
