Increasing Representation of Black Stroke Survivors in Aphasia Research: A Community Outreach Pilot

Skayina Boucard ¹, June Bracken ¹, Tina Harris ¹

⁰School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, PA.

American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology +

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August 19, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Community outreach aimed to increase Black stroke survivors with aphasia in clinical trials. The pilot identified knowledge and transportation barriers, and unmet needs like communication deficits, but did not significantly increase referrals.

Area Of Science

Neurology
Speech-Language Pathology
Health Disparities

Background

Black Americans experience higher stroke incidence and disability compared to White Americans.
Black stroke survivors with aphasia are underrepresented in clinical trials, limiting generalizability of research findings.
Addressing this disparity is crucial for equitable stroke recovery research.

Purpose Of The Study

To increase representation and engagement of Black stroke survivors with aphasia in research.
To identify barriers to aphasia research participation within this population.
To understand the unmet community needs of Black stroke survivors with aphasia.

Main Methods

A 12-month community outreach pilot in predominantly Black neighborhoods.
Led by a Community Outreach Ambassador, including site visits and community event tabling.
Qualitative analysis of semistructured interviews with Black stroke survivors with aphasia to identify barriers and needs.

Main Results

Over 100 individuals engaged, but new referrals were limited.
Identified barriers included lack of knowledge and transportation issues.
Unmet needs centered on communication deficits, social isolation, and mental health concerns.

Conclusions

The pilot identified key barriers to research participation for Black stroke survivors with aphasia.
While direct referrals were not substantially increased, positive community relationships were built.
Provides guidance for future community-engaged research with this population.