Considering Sex as a Variable at a Research University: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices.
Donna L Maney1, Katrina Karkazis2, Kimberly B Sessions Hagen3
1Department of Psychology, Emory University, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Journal of Women'S Health (2002)
|August 16, 2023
Summary
The NIH policy requires including both sexes in research, but many scientists face implementation challenges. More training and institutional support are needed to overcome these barriers and ensure inclusive biomedical research.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical research
- Sex as a biological variable (SABV)
Background:
- Historically, females were excluded from biomedical research, impacting study rigor and inclusivity.
- The National Institutes of Health (NIH) mandated consideration of sex as a biological variable (SABV) in 2016 to address this bias.
- Despite the policy, misunderstandings and barriers hinder its effective implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate barriers to implementing the NIH SABV policy at a home institution.
- To assess principal investigators' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding SABV.
Main Methods:
- Conducted semistructured interviews with principal investigators in biological sciences at Emory University.
- Assessed awareness of the SABV policy, its rationale, and its impact on research practices.
Main Results:
- Researchers generally hold positive attitudes towards SABV.
- Most principal investigators encounter challenges in implementing the SABV policy.
- Identified a need for enhanced training on policy details, sex definitions, and data analysis.
Conclusions:
- Institutional support and targeted training are crucial for successful SABV policy implementation.
- Addressing implementation challenges can improve the rigor, reproducibility, and inclusivity of biomedical research.
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