The Canadian Cancer Trials Group (CCTG) is set to eliminate gender-inclusive language from documents associated with U.S.-funded trials. This adjustment aims to comply with an executive order signed by President Donald Trump. Critics argue that this move represents political overreach and threatens the integrity of scientific research.
Based at Queen’s University, CCTG collaborates with academic groups around the globe and is the only non-American partner within the U.S. National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN). Out of 170 trials, six will be affected by this change. The alterations stem from a directive requiring a shift in language used in protocol and informed consent documents.
In an internal communication, CCTG’s director of compliance indicated that the organization would modify its trial protocols to align with the U.S. executive order. Changes include replacing “gender” with “sex” and removing terms like “intersex” and “gender if different than birth.” Participants in these trials will only have the option to self-identify as male or female.
The CCTG, involving over 85 member institutions and more than 2,100 Canadian investigators, relies heavily on grants, including a significant sum from the U.S. National Institutes of Health and National Cancer Institute. Despite these changes, the primary objectives of the trials, such as testing treatments for leukemia, remain unaffected, though discussions on the future direction are anticipated.
The directive has sparked criticism from various quarters. Health research bodies emphasize the importance of incorporating both sex and gender in research designs. Experts warn that ignoring these considerations undermines scientific progress and introduces discriminatory practices.
Concerns also extend to broader U.S. policies influencing Canadian research. Recent actions from U.S. federal agencies have scrutinized Canadian projects for alignment with political agendas, raising alarms over potential impacts on academic independence and integrity. Canadian institutions are urged to resist such interference to maintain research objectivity.
The Impact on Research and Society
This shift in language and policy could have significant implications for the research community and broader society. For researchers, the changes may hinder the capacity to explore and understand how gender impacts health outcomes. This could restrict the development of more personalized and effective treatments, ultimately affecting patient care and medical advancements.
Beyond research, these policies may influence societal attitudes towards gender and science, potentially fostering environments less welcoming to diversity and inclusivity. The shift could also signal a broader trend of political influence over scientific endeavors, posing challenges to the independence and credibility of research institutions both in Canada and globally.
