Community Corner
Feb. 1 webinar to focus on boosting diversity in dementia research
Alzheimer's Association seeks to increase participation by communities of color in clinical trials

In honor of Black History Month, the Alzheimer’s Association will offer a free live webinar “Alzheimer’s & Dementia Conversations: Changing the Face of Research” at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1.
The one-hour webinar will feature a robust discussion on the historical inequities in clinical trials and their lasting impact on Black Americans and other underrepresented populations. Currently, there are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. Among Black Americans age 70 or older, more than 1 in 5 (21 percent) are living with Alzheimer’s.
Panelists will include Dr. Reuben Warren, Director Tuskegee University National Center for Bioethics in Research and Healthcare; Reverend Dr. Ann Marie Bentsi-Addison Posey, Senior Director of Faith Based Initiatives, New York City Health and Hospital Corporation and Reverend Dr. Miriam J. Burnett, Medical Director, International Health Commission, African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) Church.
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According to the 2021 Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures report, nearly two-thirds of Black Americans (62 percent) believe that medical research is biased against people of color. A history of exclusion from clinical trials and a lasting history of discrimination from the medical establishment contributes to high levels of mistrust of clinical trials among Black Americans.
“We know that Alzheimer’s disease disproportionately affects Black older Americans,” said Dr. Carl V. Hill, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer, Alzheimer’s Association. “We are committed to continue engaging underrepresented communities.”
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To register, visit “Alzheimer’s & Dementia Conversations: Changing the Face of Research”.
About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia®. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
About the Hudson Valley Chapter
The Hudson Valley Chapter serves families living with dementia in seven counties in New York, including Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. To learn more about the programs and services offered locally, visit alz.org/hudsonvalley.