Strategies to optimize the engagement of culturally and linguistically diverse populations in cardiac research: a systematic review

Aims Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) populations remain underrepresented in cardiovascular disease (CVD) research despite their higher disease burden compared with non-CALD populations. The purpose of this review is to synthesize the available literature on strategies to engage CALD participants in CVD research. Methods and results Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) were searched for literature up until May 2024. Qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods studies were included if they focused on CVD research, included participants who identified as coming from a CALD background, and the study included a description of their recruitment strategies. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, and findings were analysed through a narrative synthesis. A total of 34 studies were included in this review, with the largest proportion conducted in the USA. The African American population was the most common CALD group. The most commonly used strategies to recruit CALD participants were strategically undertaking recruitment from places frequented by CALD communities; using CALD-specific promotional and advertisement material; offering monetary incentives; creating translated and jargon-free material; and improving staff diversity and cultural competency. The success of recruitment strategies was assessed in seven studies showing mostly positive results. Conclusion The findings of this review highlight cultural- and language-specific strategies that can be used to improve recruitment of CALD participants in CVD research. CALD communities must be included in CVD research to ensure cultural barriers are addressed when developing evidence-based CVD prevention guidelines.