Participation in clinical trials: is it state-of-the-art treatment for African Americans and other people of color?

We have attempted to initiate a much needed constructive dialogue regarding the participation of African-American patients in clinical cancer research trials. It was our intent to provide a greater understanding of the historical context and evolving nature of clinical research trials pertaining to cancer. Some of the same challenges hold true for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related clinical research. Physicians interested in becoming a member of SOCRATES should contact Dr Roach at the University of California San Francisco.