A recent poll by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) finds diabetes, hypertension and heart disease atop a list of diseases seen as a clinical research priority for Black Americans.

Of the 253 Black Americans asked to rate the importance of conducting clinical research on six diseases or conditions that affect their racial group, 19 percent said diabetes should be the top focus of clinical trials. Hypertension and heart disease both received 15 percent, while 14 percent named cancer. Blood pressure was selected by 10 percent, and 5 percent said asthma.

When asked to name the most important benefits of racially diverse clinical trials, 35 percent said diversity would help ensure approved medications are equally safe and effective for Black and nonBlack populations. Supporting the overall quality of and community access to healthcare for Black Americans was the second choice at 26 percent. Identifying the most effective ways to prevent diseases that disproportionately affect Black Americans was third at 15 percent.

Only 11 percent said shifting the U.S. healthcare system’s priorities and understanding how genetics, heredity and racial differences impact care was the most important benefit of more diverse trials, and 6 percent named supporting needed changes in practice and building a more just, equitable society.