In a push to diversify Parkinson's disease research, Morehouse School of Medicine has set its sights on recruiting Black Georgians to join an international genetics study. The PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson’s Disease study, launched in 2019, is now making a call for participation from underrepresented groups, seeking to enrich understanding and treatment of the disease across different populations.
The study, involving over 15,000 patients across the globe, has made notable strides, yet Black patients' involvement remains critically low. With the objective to fill this research gap, Morehouse is inviting patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which, according to a report in Neurology, Black patients are historically less likely to be evaluated for, despite needing critical attention.
Dr. Roy Alcalay, the lead principal investigator from Tel Aviv Medical Center and Columbia University's Department of Neurology, emphasized the importance of genetic diversity in research, saying "It is critical that our research includes data from a diverse body of participants because no two people with PD are identical. Data is power, and by providing genetic data to study participants, PD GENEration empowers the community to be involved in additional research toward a cure," according to a statement obtained by WABE.
Highlighting the significance of inclusive study samples, Morehouse School of Medicine Associate Professor of Neurology Dr. Chantale Branson shared that most historical Parkinson's research has not fairly represented the Black community. When they're including more Black patients in research, Dr. Branson stated that this could accelerate understanding of how the disease affects and which treatments work best within this specific population.
For those interested in contributing to this landmark study, Morehouse School of Medicine offers two convenient means to partake: either by visiting the institution in person for genetic testing or by utilizing at-home testing kits complemented by telemedicine visits. In an empowering move, the researchers also provide participants with their own genetic test results and counseling to support further involvement in clinical trials. To become involved in the study, potential participants can visit the official website or reach out via email at [email protected] for enrollment details.
