![]() Engaging the community from the earliest phases of clinical research can strengthen the process and help ensure that a trial runs smoothly and efficiently. Individuals or communities considering taking part in a clinical study often want to participate in the entire process, from the study design to dissemination of results. Researchers also need to develop meaningful relationships in the communities from which they hope to recruit participants. This includes explaining kindly and carefully why someone is not eligible to participate in a specific study. Communicating directly with participants as they join a study - and throughout the process - is critical to earning and maintaining trust. Key to encouraging public support for and participation in clinical research is trust, and researchers must take the time and make the effort to build that trust. Educating the public about clinical research may help raise general awareness about the important role this research plays in safeguarding health and quality of life, but these efforts are only the beginning. But it is critical that scientists also become knowledgeable about how to reach and communicate in their communities before, during and after a trial. Researchers know about this and other requirements and responsibilities of clinical research with human subjects. Respect for potential and enrolled participants is a fundamental principle. When clinical trials successfully recruit and retain participants from all backgrounds who become full partners in the process, science moves forward and we can all achieve better health. Or, clinical trials may be a step toward preventing, treating, easing or curing disease in the future. For people who are sick, injured, or who have a disability, clinical trials may provide life-changing treatments and or strategies for them. The NIH’s mission is “to improve health and reduce the burdens of disease and disability.” And, along with the legions of volunteers who participate in clinical research, the NIH and the Nation rely on clinical research scientists to fulfill that essential mission.
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