JJ: I do many talks in the community about research. CTSI participates in health events across the city to talk about Pitt+Me, our CTSI research registry. We want community members to ask us questions and to know that research is always voluntary. We want people to understand the process of informed consent—to identify where to go to find studies that may be beneficial for them or their families. People also need to recognize that African Americans are underrepresented in health data.
EB: Underrepresentation is something I know we can improve. Historically, African Americans, and other underrepresented groups, have had good reasons not to want to participate in medical research. But it’s important to me that more than white men are represented in health research data. I want Black folks, women, children, the elderly and the disabled—all vulnerable groups—to be represented in research. Only then will those who treat us truly know they are providing the best possible care for each of us.
JJ: Providing the best possible care for each person is what we call “precision medicine,” which is our November health topic. We’ll explore all those points in greater detail in just a few weeks. Thank you for your openness and honesty, Ms. Bush. I always appreciate your time.
If anyone has questions or would like more information about the topics on this month’s page, e-mail partners@hs.pitt.edu.
The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh health education office staff members are also available to answer questions about research and to let community members know what research opportunities may be available. We’re all more than happy to answer your questions.
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