Short Wave How Well Does A New Alzheimer's Drug Work For Those Most At Risk?
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Mar 13, 2023 Jonathan Jackson, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School and executive director of the CARE Research Center, joins to discuss the new Alzheimer's drug lecanemab. He highlights the groundbreaking diversity in clinical trials but raises concerns about the lack of data for underrepresented groups, particularly Black Americans. The conversation delves into the significance of inclusive trial designs and the urgent need to reevaluate standards in drug testing to ensure all populations at risk can benefit from advancements in treatment.
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Trial Diversity Concerns
- While the Lecanemab trial was considered diverse with 25% non-white participants, only 3% were Black.
- This raises concerns about the drug's effectiveness for Black individuals, a group at higher risk for Alzheimer's.
Modest Effects
- Lecanemab's effects were modest, meaning its real-world impact might be minimal.
- Groups showing no clear effect in the trial might not experience any benefit at all.
Importance of Representation
- Not studying Alzheimer's in high-risk populations hinders our understanding of the disease.
- Lack of diversity signals a flaw in scientific quality and the need for more inclusive research.