Metrics details. Addressing obstacles such as logistical complexities, social stigma, and the impact of historical traumas is essential for the successful inclusion of underrepresented groups in health research.
This article reviews engagement and interview techniques used to ethically engage recently settled Afghan refugees in Oklahoma and rural Mexican-born women in Illinois in research.
The paper concludes with a reflective discussion on the challenges and lessons learned. Community engagement is essential at all stages of research for building trust in hard-to-reach populations, achieving inclusivity in health research, and ensuring that interventions are culturally sensitive and effective. Hard-to-reach populations such as ethnic and immigrant communities, people experiencing homelessness, refugees, sex workers, and those affected by disasters or conflicts are frequently marginalized in research.
This underrepresentation arises from geographic isolation, cultural and linguistic barriers, economic disadvantages, and historical mistrust in healthcare systems of these groups, which translates into a limited or absent understanding of their unique health needs [ 11 , 40 ].
Yet incorporating diverse communities in research is crucial for a better understanding of the causes of health disparities and achieving health equity.
