Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Kiersten Kelne, and I am a second-year student at Florida State University. I am from Jacksonville, Florida, and I am majoring in nursing and minoring in psychology. I will be in the FSU BSN program for the Fall 2025 cycle. My research involves investigating clinical trials and the importance of including underrepresented populations in healthcare initiatives. My involvement in UROP connects to my FDA student researcher position, which allows me to be employed by Florida State University and aid with research tasks in the Nursing department. I hope to continue working in the field of research whilst gaining my BSN to further my experience and knowledge.

Enhancing Inclusion in Clinical Trials: A Scoping Review of Strategies for LGBTQIA+ People and People Living with HIV

Abstract

Including diverse populations in research is crucial for addressing the underrepresentation of marginalized groups in clinical trials, which can lead to healthcare disparities and less effective treatments for diverse populations. By identifying barriers and strategies for better inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) individuals and people living with HIV (PLWH), the study aims to inform policy and guidance for practice that fosters more equitable representation and improve health outcomes for these communities. A lack of LGBTQIA+ diversity in clinical trials also negatively impacts individuals living with HIV as gay, bisexual, and men who have sexual intercourse with other men are more likely to contract HIV; however, people of any gender or sexuality may contract HIV. People living with HIV experience increased comorbidities such as pain, sleep disruption, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline, among others. Yet, PLWH is often excluded from clinical trials addressing treatments for these conditions. The underlying goal of this project is to perform a comprehensive scoping review of existing research on inclusion and diversity in clinical trials, particularly for the LGBTQIA+ community and PLWH From this, the goal is to help summarize potential strategies for improving representation and highlight gaps in the literature. Improving clinical trial diversity will ultimately improve access to treatments and technologies that improve the health of LGBTQIA+ people and PLWH.

Keywords: Diversity, clinical trials, equity, strategies, inclusion