Diversity and Representation in Cardiovascular Research

Evidence Gaps, Emerging Models, and Policy Implications

Bibliographic Data

ID15466927
AuthorsSimran Grewal (0000-0002-7377-8740, OLVG), James E Wildish (Glasgow School of Art), James Wildish (0009-0007-2475-4391, Department of Research, The Original Fit Factory, Glasgow G62 7LW, UK), Catherine Chalmers (Glasgow School of Art), Christine Dedding (0000-0003-3296-4245, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam), Jeanine Suurmond (0000-0001-6872-2067, Radboud University Nijmegen), Charles Agyemang (0000-0002-3882-7295, Johns Hopkins University), Nimrat Grewal (0000-0001-9981-8336, Yale New Haven Hospital, corresponding author)
Year2026
Volume23
Issue2
Pages241-241
Publication date2026-02-14
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1661-7827 • E-ISSN: 1660-4601
PublisherMultidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (PUBLISHER • CH)
DOI10.3390/ijerph23020241
PMID41752323
OpenAlexW7128925253
LanguageEN
References cited115

Although cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality globally, it remains insufficiently understood in large parts of the world. The scientific foundations underpinning CVD risk prediction, diagnostics, and treatment are extensively derived from homogenous datasets, primarily including White, male participants from high-income countries. This lack of diversity and inclusion can lead to biased evidence, which in turn contributes to reduced diagnostic accuracy and the under-representation of key populations, and ultimately limits the generalizability of trial results and guidelines. In this paper, we discuss that diversity in cardiovascular data is a scientific necessity for valid and globally applicable knowledge and not just a matter of fairness. Drawing from emerging initiatives in genomics, digital health, and participatory research, we propose a global roadmap to reshape how cardiovascular research is conducted. This includes strategies such as data donation frameworks, inclusive biobanking, equitable AI development, and international policy change. Only by integrating diversity into scientific methodologies can we ensure that cardiovascular guidelines are effective, inclusive, and just

Citizen journalism · Disease · Diversity (politics · Generalizability theory · Generalization · Inclusion (mineral · Representation (politics · Underpinning · Acute Myocardial Infarction Research · Cardiovascular Health and Risk Factors · Sex and Gender in Healthcare

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