#United States #Clinical Trials #Neuropathy Action Foundation #Santa Ana #patient participation

Neuropathy Action Foundation Releases Important White Paper on Neuropathy Clinical Trials

On November 18, 2025, the Neuropathy Action Foundation (NAF) took a significant step toward enhancing the treatment landscape for neuropathy patients by unveiling a critical white paper titled "Clinical Trials for Neuropathy Looking Ahead." This comprehensive document sheds light on the state of current clinical trials, highlights emerging therapies, and underscores the importance of patient involvement.

Dominick Spatafora, the board president of NAF, expressed pride in the foundation's commitment to enhancing the lives of neuropathy patients. He stated, "This study enables us to gain insights into what strategies are effective, what innovations are arising, and how we can continuously progress in treating and preventing neuropathy."

The report delves into several key categories currently being researched in clinical trials, including medications, biologics, regenerative therapies, and nerve-stimulation devices. It also encompasses advancements in technology, such as virtual reality programs and wearable monitors, illustrating a pivot towards integrating modern technology into treatment protocols.

One standout aspect of the report is its focus on innovation. It outlines how tools like precision medicine, artificial intelligence (AI), and novel trial designs could dramatically shorten the timeframe necessary to ascertain the effectiveness of new treatments. However, the report does not shy away from addressing the challenges faced by the neuropathy treatment landscape.

A major concern highlighted in the report is the limitation of federal funding for neuropathy research. Despite the biopharmaceutical industry allocating more than $200 billion to research and development in 2024, recent budget cuts have resulted in a significant decline in public funding aimed at neuropathy initiatives. This shortfall further emphasizes the need for increased private investment and active patient participation to ensure the continuity of new therapy development.

The white paper places significant emphasis on the necessity for diverse patient representation in clinical trials. It shines a light on the fact that specific demographics—including older adults, women, and people from racial and ethnic minority groups—remain underrepresented in neuropathy trials. The publication identifies various barriers to participation, such as transportation issues, inadequate information, language barriers, and general unawareness of the trials themselves.

Spatafora poignantly noted, "Inclusivity transcends being a scientific concern; it is fundamentally a moral obligation. To develop treatments that are effective for all, everybody must have an equitable opportunity to partake. Addressing these barriers and amplifying outreach will contribute to more robust, safe, and efficacious therapies in the future."

In closing, the paper advocates for greater discourse among clinicians, caregivers, and patients while encouraging community groups and advocates to disseminate credible information regarding trials and to motivate more individuals to inquire and become involved.

For those interested in exploring the full white paper, additional details can be found at www.neuropathyaction.org.

About Neuropathy Action Foundation

The Neuropathy Action Foundation (NAF) is a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring neuropathy patients receive vital resources and tailored treatments that enhance their overall quality of life. NAF strives to elevate awareness among healthcare providers, policy makers, and society about neuropathy as a serious and prevalent condition that demands appropriate medical attention. For more information, visit NAF's website.