Lupus nephritis (LN) is a serious complication of lupus that causes inflammation of the kidneys. If not properly managed, it can lead to permanent kidney damage, dialysis, or even the need for a kidney transplant.
For black patients, research shows that lupus is more common, more severe, and diagnosed at a younger age than other groups. Additionally, black patients are at greater risk of worse outcomes when lupus attacks the kidneys.
IRIS is a clinical trial evaluating an investigational drug in patients with lupus nephritis. You may be eligible to participate if you are at least 18 years old, have been diagnosed with lupus nephritis, and are taking medications to treat it.
Participation in clinical trials offers eligible individuals the opportunity to access a potential new treatment while benefiting from regular check-ups and support in managing their disease. Click here to learn about a new clinical trial for people with lupus nephritis. Remember that participation in a clinical trial is always voluntary and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Why representation matters in research
Regarding lupus nephritis, representation in clinical trials has been limited. Historically, Black patients have been underrepresented in research despite being disproportionately affected by the disease. This lack of representation creates a significant health gap.
By participating in clinical trials like IRIS, Black patients help researchers better understand how study drugs may affect those who take them. Each participant adds valuable information. Your voice, your experience, and your journey truly matter in shaping the future of lupus care.
Understanding the IRIS Trial
The IRIS clinical trial is studying an experimental treatment for lupus nephritis. The goal is to determine how this treatment affects people living with lupus nephritis.
If you are eligible and choose to participate in the study, you will be cared for by a dedicated medical team throughout the study. Your health and safety will always be our top priority. Doctors and staff will explain the process, answer your questions, and guide you every step of the way.
Participation in a clinical trial is always voluntary. If you decide to join IRIS, you will not only have the opportunity to benefit personally, but also to collectively contribute to the advancement of lupus care.
Trust the process
It’s no secret that many members of the Black community are deeply concerned about clinical research. Today, clinical trials are governed by strict safety regulations and the protection of participants is the top priority.
Additionally, the IRIS study team understands that lupus nephritis does not affect everyone in the same way. By working with patients from different backgrounds, they are committed to ensuring that research reflects the real-world experiences of Black communities.
When you participate, you are accompanied and supported by a dedicated team throughout the process.
Consider clinical trials
Choosing to participate in research is an important step. For you, this may mean access to new treatments and closer monitoring of your condition. For the community, this means helping to ensure that future treatments for lupus nephritis are designed with Black patients in mind.
If you or someone you love is living with lupus nephritis, now is the time to learn more about IRIS. To learn more about the IRIS study and see if you may be eligible, click here to take the screening questionnaire.
Content sponsored by AstraZeneca
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