Walgreens agrees to help with clinical trials

DEERFIELD - Walgreens Thursday said it will assist with sponsor-led drug development research through the marketing and recruitment of clinical trial participants, especially in minority communities.

The introduction of Walgreens clinical trial business coincides with recent steps taken by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to increase racial and ethnic diversity in clinical trials, given 20% of drugs have a variation in responses across ethnic groups, yet 75% of clinical trial participants are white, while only 11% are Hispanic and fewer than 10% are Black and Asian.

More than half of Walgreens nearly 9,000 stores are located in socially vulnerable areas, the drugstore chain said.

"Walgreens trusted community presence across the nation, combined with our enterprisewide data and health capabilities, enables us to pioneer a comprehensive solution that makes health options, including clinical trials, more accessible, convenient and equitable," said Ramita Tandon, chief clinical trials officer, Walgreens. "Through the launch of our clinical trials services, we can provide another offering for patients with complex or chronic conditions in their care journey, while helping sponsors advance treatment options for the diverse communities we serve."