Getty ImagesResearches are getting in touch with community groups in the Humber region to seek their help in clinical trials.
The research, by the Academic Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism (Adem) team based at Allam Diabetes Centre in Hull, is used to develop treatments and cures.
The team is keen to have more participation from black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) people, those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and people living in rural communities.
Research team manager Lisa Baldwin said: “It’s really important that the clinical research we do represents the local population and that the work we do can be translated into clinical care for those that need it.”
She added: “The only way that we can achieve this is to engage with local community leaders and get the word out there about the work we’re doing.”
According to the NHS Humber Health Partnership, only about one in every eight patients registered with the research team is known to be from a BAME background.
However, they have a higher chance of developing some of the conditions treated by the unit, such as type 2 diabetes, at a younger age, the partnership said.
Dr Sajida Ita, from Hull, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 18 years ago, and she said it had been a struggle trying different drugs.
“They all have their benefits but equally they all have their side-effects,” she said.
Since taking part in the clinical research with the Adem team, Dr Ita has found a way to manage her diabetes, and she’s encouraging other people to get involved.
“The more people who feel included in this research, the more impact it will have,” she said.
The researchers are also keen to speak to people experiencing hormone-related issues, such as thyroid problems and adrenal gland issues.
The research ranges from online questionnaires through to drug trials.