Honoring AAPI Month: Spotlight on Kawasaki disease

 Acknowledging diversity is critically important in every aspect from clinical trials to  treatment protocols. As rare disease is one of our areas of emphasis, we know that  some rare diseases are unique to, or more prevalent in, different ethnic or racial communities. 

In honor of AAPI month, we thought it was appropriate to raise awareness around a rare disease impacting the AAPI community.  Kawasaki disease is an inflammatory disorder of the blood vessels, and is more prevalent in those of Asian descent. It is one of the leading causes of heart disease in young children. But the good news is - if it’s caught early it can be treated with IVIG with good success.  

It’s important we speak openly about rare disease prevalence across racial and ethnic communities. As the article by Susan H. points out: “Designing a trial and selecting participants with diverse backgrounds that proportionally represent each demographic group is one of the first steps a sponsor can take to create a diverse and inclusive clinical trial. The benefits of understanding the cultural and genetic nuances of each group and mitigating any adverse effects of these new drugs may result in a safer and more effective treatment for both the trial participants and the greater world population.”