Recorded at the Global Black Economic Forum, this powerful FYH.News conversation features host Adjoa Kyerematen (NMQF) in dialogue with Joel Bervell—known widely as the “Medical Mythbuster.”

Together, they break down the facts about clinical trials: what they are, how they work, why they matter, and why participation from Black and Brown communities remains disproportionately low.

Joel walks listeners through the full research pipeline—from lab discoveries to phased human studies—while clarifying the history of Tuskegee and explaining the safeguards in place today, including informed consent, data protections, and federal diversity requirements in enrollment.

This episode reframes clinical trials not as “guinea pig” medicine, but as access to cutting-edge care—and a pathway to better, more representative outcomes for everyone.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why participation from Black and Brown communities remains around 5%—and how representation changes outcomes
 • How the clinical research pipeline works (lab → animal models → phased human studies)
 • Today’s safety safeguards: informed consent, data protections, and diverse enrollment requirements
 • Tuskegee clarified—what happened, what changed, and what to ask now
 • The exact questions to ask your doctor about trials for your specific condition
 • Real-world examples in lupus and cancer
 • How primary care providers and advocacy groups can help connect patients to credible trials
 • The role of community science, research networks, and biobanks in advancing better care

Key Takeaways:

Clinical trials provide access to innovative treatments—not experimentation without protection.
 Go into appointments prepared: “Are there clinical trials for my specific condition? If not, who can we ask?”
Stay current on preventive care (mammograms, A1C, PSA, and other screenings) to help close care gaps and qualify sooner for opportunities.

For more equity-focused health coverage and empowering resources, visit fyh.news