Bringing Balance to the Data
- KyAlea Monma
- 13 minutes ago
- 3 min read
How the Health We Study — and the Way We Study It — Shapes the Future of Medicine
As a new year begins, many people reflect on what progress really means.
In clinical research, progress is often measured in data — numbers, outcomes, and results. But data does not exist on its own. It comes from people. From communities. From lived experiences shaped by culture, environment, access, and history.
When those realities are missing from research, medicine can miss them too.
At Kalo Clinical Research, our work begins with a simple belief: bringing balance to the data starts with listening to the communities most affected by disease — and designing research that reflects their lives.
Why Balance in Research Data Matters
Clinical research plays a critical role in shaping how treatments are developed, approved, and prescribed. But historically, not all communities have been equally represented in that process.
In the United States:
Over 75% of clinical trial participants are white
Black communities make up about 13% of the population, yet often represent only 5–8% of trial participants
Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, Native American, and Alaska Native communities experience some of the highest rates of chronic disease, yet remain among the least represented in clinical data
Hispanic and Latino communities continue to be underrepresented
Asian American and Pacific Islander communities are often grouped together in research, masking important cultural and health differences
These gaps are not just statistics. They influence how well treatments work in real life — including dosing, side effects, and overall effectiveness.
Balanced data leads to safer, more effective medicine.
And balance begins by including the people most impacted by disease.
The Health Areas We Focus On — and Why
At Kalo Clinical Research, the conditions we study are not chosen at random. They reflect health challenges that affect our communities every day — particularly those that have been historically underrepresented in research.
Our study areas include:
Diabetes & Metabolic Health
Type 2 diabetes and metabolic conditions disproportionately impact Pacific Islander, Hispanic, and low-income communities. Inclusive research helps ensure treatments reflect how these conditions show up across different bodies and lifestyles.
Heart & Cardiovascular Disease
Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of illness and death in the U.S. Yet many communities most affected by cardiovascular conditions are underrepresented in trials that shape treatment guidelines.
Lung & Respiratory Health
Environmental exposure, housing conditions, and access to care all influence respiratory health. Research that reflects these realities leads to better understanding and safer outcomes.
Skin & Inflammatory Conditions
Conditions like eczema and psoriasis can present differently across skin tones and genetic backgrounds. Inclusive research helps close gaps in diagnosis and treatment.
Obesity & Weight Health
Weight-related health is complex and influenced by environment, access, and culture. Research must reflect this complexity to avoid one-size-fits-all solutions.
Across all study areas, our commitments remain consistent:
No insurance is required to participate
Study-related care is provided at no cost
Compensation may be available, depending on the study
Privacy and informed consent come first
How Participation Works — With Clarity and Care
We know that participating in research can feel unfamiliar. That’s why transparency is not an add-on at Kalo — it’s foundational.
Here’s what the process typically looks like:
You begin by answering a few simple questions online. This helps determine whether a study may be a good fit. There is no obligation to move forward.
2. Meet the Team
If you qualify, we schedule a visit to talk through the study details. This is where consent becomes a real conversation — not a form to rush through. We take time to answer questions and explain what participation involves.
3. Participate in a Study
If you choose to move forward, you’ll receive study-related care from a compassionate, trained team. Visits are designed with respect for your time, comfort, and dignity.
4. Make a Difference
Participation helps shape future treatments for your family, your community, and generations to come. Your contribution supports safer, more inclusive medicine.
At every step, participation is voluntary. You can pause, ask questions, or choose not to continue — without pressure.
Moving Forward Together
Bringing balance to the data is not about checking boxes or meeting quotas. It is about restoring trust, honoring lived experience, and ensuring medicine reflects the people it is meant to serve.
At Kalo Clinical Research, we believe:
Data is stronger when communities are included
Ethics and quality go hand in hand
Clear communication builds confidence
People are partners in progress — not subjects
As we move into a new year, we remain committed to research that listens first, explains clearly, and protects the dignity of every participant.
If you’re curious about participating, learning more, or simply understanding how research works, you are always welcome to explore at your own pace.
In gratitude, we thrive!
