Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have revealed in their new study that non-English speakers are rarely included in US-based pediatrics research.
For the study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, the authors surveyed papers publicized between 2012 and 2021 in three pediatric academic journals. More than 5,000 articles met inclusion criteria.
“This review found that NES communities were underrepresented in pediatric health research from 2012 to 2021, suggesting that work is needed to increase NES representation, ensure best practices in oral and written communication, and promote language and health equity,” according to the study’s authors.
“This review of 3 pediatric journals provides preliminary evidence suggesting exclusion of NES communities from pediatric research from 2012 to 2021 and highlights an opportunity to provide more methodological detail about communication with NES participants.”
“Best practices for improving inclusivity of NES participants are needed to guide researchers toward improved methods and more relevant results.”
