Partners in Engaging Diverse Populations in Research

Engagement of diverse populations in clinical research studies is crucial for ensuring that the needs of these groups are represented in scientific outcomes. Members of minority groups participate in research studies at much lower rates than white individuals Colon-Otero, 2008. These disparities in research participation can exacerbate already existing racial/ethnic differences in health outcomes Smedley, 2002. Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Centers Office of Community Outreach and Engagement COE is dedicated to research that advances the understanding of these disparities and to developing and offering integrated community-based services and educational programs tailored to meet the needs of these populations. The mission of COE is to assure that all cancer patients and communities in Western New York can benefit from the clinical and scientific advances accomplished at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. COE 133s and health education specialists bring the science of our cancer center into minority and medically-underserved communities through public programs and collaborations. In conjunction with selected public libraries in the Western New York area, and led by experienced members of Roswell Parks Community Outreach and Engagement Team, this three-pronged project will provide tailored lay education about the importance of diverse populations participating in clinical research. The first two prongs of this project aim to increase the publics knowledge of participating in clinical research. The third prong of this project will provide training to public librarians on the basic tenets of clinical research, as well as demonstrate high quality resources for locating clinical trials that librarians can direct laypersons to. This project will include 4 public offerings of a pilot-tested presentation called Dont be Left Out at public libraries: two presentations will be held at a public library in a traditionally underserved neighborhood in the city of Buffalo for English speakers; two presentations will be held at a public library serving predominantly Spanish-speaking community members Presentation available in Appendix A. To enhance public librarians knowledge of clinical research tenets and the need to engage diverse populations, a series of one-time staff trainings for public librarians will be held at 2 self-selected public libraries in the Roswell Parks catchment area Presentation available in Appendix B. In total, this proposed project will offer 6 in-person programs at 2 or more public libraries.