Health Disparity
Articles tagged with Health Disparity
Research by Ochsner experts explores making behavioral health care more accessible
Hormone health climbs the policy agenda as endocrine leaders meet for European Society of Endocrinology’s first Summit of the Presidents
The summit brought together endocrine leaders to identify opportunities to work closely together on increasing the visibility of endocrine health in policy decisions. Early findings from a workforce survey revealed challenges including long patient waiting times and retention concerns among early-career clinicians.
Prisoners in England at 41-67 times greater risk of avoidable healthcare harms than general public
National Institutes of Health Grant terminations disproportionately impact minority scientists
A recent NIH grant termination survey found that BIPOC and LGBTQ+ researchers faced higher odds of termination, with disparities extending beyond representation. The study highlights concerns about the long-term impacts on the US scientific workforce.
People with poor mental health experience healthcare differently, survey reports
A survey of 32,419 adults across 18 countries found that people with poor mental health reported worse care quality and less confidence in the healthcare system. The study highlights a need for healthcare systems to rethink how they serve this growing population with more complex needs.
Study finds major gaps in dementia care across Mississippi
A new study by University of Mississippi researchers finds significant shortages in adult day services across the state, leaving thousands without daily support. The state would need an additional 910 centers to meet demand, with funding being a primary cause of shortages.
Why risk perception matters for quitting smoking
A recent study found that risk perceptions of e-cigarettes rose sharply during and after the EVALI outbreak, lingering even after scientists identified the cause. This shift in perception was more pronounced among non-white participants, potentially exacerbating existing health disparities.
Study finds regional differences in sickle cell disease in New York state
A new study reveals significant variation in sickle cell disease hospitalizations and costs across New York State, with regional differences in access to specialized care and treatment impacting outcomes. Long Island and New York City show high costs and complex cases, while Central New York has the longest average length of stay.
Mail-in test for colorectal cancer could help community health centers increase screening
Researchers found that a newer stool-based screening test, FIT-DNA, increased completion rates among participants from community health centers. However, follow-up colonoscopy tests remained low, highlighting the need for continued support and access to diagnostic services.
Opioids for dental pain still more common in US
A new study shows that while dental opioid prescription fills in the US have dropped by 27% since 2021, the rate remains higher than in other developed countries and the US territory of Puerto Rico. The study suggests that some US dentists are still overprescribing opioids.
The importance of health literacy for international students' health in Japan
A study found international students in Japan had poorer health than Japanese peers due to lower health literacy. Health literacy was key to bridging the gap, with international students reporting better health status among those with higher literacy levels.
Patients with higher markers of marginalization more likely to rely on emergency departments for concussion care, study finds
A new study found that patients experiencing socioeconomic marginalization are more likely to seek initial concussion care in hospital emergency departments, leading to lower follow-up rates. Patients without family physicians were up to 70% less likely to follow up.
Wayne State University and Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute researchers establish new digital engagement and cancer outcomes center with ACS grant
Researchers will build connections with Detroit's digital equity ecosystem and promote digital inclusion to link cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers with resources. The Digital Engagement and Cancer Outcomes (DECO) Center aims to advance interventions that improve outcomes at the individual level.
Federal housing assistance may lead to improved two-year survival among older people with prostate cancer
New research suggests that federal housing assistance may lead to better two-year survival chances among older men with prostate cancer. The study found a 12% lower risk of death in men who received housing assistance compared to those without it.
Millions suffering needlessly with curable hepatitis C, new analysis reveals
A new analysis found that prescriptions for curable hepatitis C drugs have declined sharply in recent years, leaving millions without treatment. The researchers urge swift actions to deliver the drugs to those who need them, including increased screening and system-level changes.
Korean women with CVD face gaps in risk factor control
A study analyzing Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data reveals higher awareness and treatment of major risk factors among Korean women with CVD, but lower control rates. Sex differences were observed in most management indicators, with men having more risk factors on average.
Hidden epidemic: Metabolic disorders drive the next wave of liver cancer
The study reveals that metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is emerging as a major contributor to liver cancer worldwide and in China. Researchers call for integrated global prevention and early detection strategies to address this growing burden.
Waiting to enter primary school may improve educational outcomes in low-income countries, with health benefits into adulthood and the next generation
A new study found that children who start primary school at older ages completed more years of schooling, had greater wealth in adulthood, and fewer teen pregnancies. This delay allowed them to develop greater literacy and was associated with better health outcomes, including lower rates of HIV infection and child death.
Pregnancy-related deaths rose during pandemic, remain elevated for Black women, study finds
A new study found that pregnancy-related deaths increased sharply during the pandemic, particularly among Black women, but rates have since returned to pre-pandemic levels for most groups. However, disparities persist, especially in later postpartum deaths, which remain elevated for non-Hispanic Black mothers.
New partnership broadens reach of Pennington generation study
The Pennington Generation study aims to explore the impact of physical activity, nutrition, and sleep on children's health and growth. The study will examine how these behaviors relate to weight gain and obesity over time.
New study reveals why some Chinese immigrants in the US may turn to China-based telehealth apps
A recent study found that 15% of Chinese immigrants use China-based telehealth apps for medical advice while living in the US. These apps are preferred due to lower costs, ease of access, and language support. However, reliance on foreign-based services raises concerns about patient safety, continuity of care, and regulatory oversight.
Study: How a new approach in community clinics helped low-income patients address high blood pressure
A team-based program in community health clinics helped low-income patients reduce their blood pressure more than standard care alone. After 18 months, patients in the team-based program saw a significant drop in systolic blood pressure and showed better adherence to hypertension treatment.
While healthcare struggled to keep up during COVID-19, community clinics never wavered
A nationwide study of community health centers found that these clinics consistently provided high levels of continuous care during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the study revealed significant gaps in care continuity along racial, ethnic, economic, and demographic lines.
Inuit recommendations to address high rates of tuberculosis in Nunavik, Quebec
Inuit communities in Nunavik, Quebec, are facing a devastating tuberculosis epidemic, with rates 1000 times higher than non-Inuit populations. The study's findings highlight the need for increased healthcare resourcing and community-led initiatives to address this crisis.
Childhood cancer is a substantial contributor to global childhood mortality and global cancer burden
According to a new study published in The Lancet, childhood cancer is the eighth-leading cause of death among children worldwide. Researchers found that over 377,000 new cases and 144,000 deaths occurred in 2023, with most cases in low- and middle-income countries.
Placing fruit and veg near store entrances can improve sales and diet quality
Researchers discovered that placing fruit and vegetable sections near supermarket entrances increases purchased portions by 2,525 per week. This led to improved women's diets and potential long-term health benefits.
AstraZeneca joins Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program as Funding Partner
The Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program has partnered with AstraZeneca to support five medical students participating in the Winn Clinical Investigator Pathway Program (Winn CIPP). The program provides immersive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience to prepare students for careers in clinical research.
Study: An Oregon policy required hospitals to offer more financial assistance. Medical debt plummeted
A new study by Tulane University found that Oregon's hospital financial assistance policy significantly reduced medical debt in collections. The policy was associated with 872-1,180 fewer people per county having medical debt in collections, and increased charity care spending.
Strong patient diversity in biobanks reveals new genetic links to disease risk, treatment response
Researchers analyzed genetic data from nearly 94,000 participants in UCLA's ATLAS Biobank, highlighting new connections between genes, disease risk and medicine response. The study found that genetics can predict how well patients respond to GLP-1 drugs for weight loss purposes, with varying response rates across ancestry groups.
Global maternal deaths fell to 240,000 in 2023, but more than 100 countries still fall short of the global maternal mortality target as progress slows worldwide
Global maternal deaths fell to 240,000 in 2023, but progress has slowed in recent years and remains uneven across countries. Improvements in access to quality care could substantially reduce mortality, particularly in high-burden regions.
Isolation and financial hardship linked with lower odds of receiving preventive health care in the U.S.
A study of 281,582 adults found that those experiencing social and physical isolation were less likely to receive preventive health services. Financial hardship was a significant factor contributing to these findings, with 82.1% of physically isolated individuals experiencing material deprivation.
For the first time, Robert A. Winn Career Development Award opens to neuropsychiatry investigator-physicians
The Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program is expanding its career development award to include neuropsychiatry researcher-physicians. This expansion aims to improve clinical trial enrollment and represent diverse patient populations affected by complex disorders.
Bilingual forms improve cancer treatment understanding among people with limited English
A new study found that bilingual consent forms significantly improve cancer treatment understanding among people with limited English, with understanding rising from 35% to 60%. The study, published in Supportive Care in Cancer, examined the impact of different translation approaches on cancer treatment understanding among Bengali- and...
Prior authorization may hinder access to lifesaving heart failure medications
A new study reveals that prior authorization requirements for heart failure medications can significantly delay pharmacy fills, particularly for those with lower socioeconomic status or Medicaid insurance. The study found that patients with prior authorization prescriptions took three times as long to fill their ARNI prescriptions and ...
Telemedicine remains popular, but who uses it varies widely
Telemedicine usage varies by patient demographics and location, with elderly people and Asian patients less likely to use it. Lower income brackets and those with better technology access are more likely to use telemedicine, with significant geographic and demographic disparities found.
New ACP papers say health care must be more accessible and inclusive for patients and physicians with disabilities
Two new ACP papers advocate for policy changes to improve healthcare access and inclusivity for people with disabilities. The papers offer recommendations to address health disparities, promote disability-inclusive medical education, and foster a supportive workplace environment.
Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology highlights new and open colorectal cancer trials in March
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology is spotlighting new trials for colorectal cancer in March, focusing on early detection methods and treatments for treatment delays and loss of appetite. The trials aim to improve patient outcomes, with several enrolling patients with newly diagnosed colon or rectal cancer.
Upcoming Alliance webinar highlights latest cancer treatment advances
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology will host a webinar highlighting recent clinical advances in breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and leukemia. Researchers will present key findings from ASH and SABCS meetings, impacting treatment outcomes.
Federal grant funds OU training program focused on care of people experiencing homelessness
The University of Oklahoma is launching a new five-year, $1 million federal grant-funded training program to address the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness. Residents in internal medicine and family medicine will receive immersive training in delivering compassionate, comprehensive care to this vulnerable population.
As health care goes digital, patients are being left behind
A new study by UCSF found that most healthcare systems are neglecting to ask patients if they have access and skills to use digital tools, despite increasing online care demands. The lack of assessment is particularly concerning for uninsured patients, who often experience worse health outcomes.
How well are international guidelines followed for certain medications for high-risk pregnancies?
A study found that international guidelines for preterm delivery are often not followed, leading to varying levels of exposure to life-saving medications. In high-income countries, there were significant discrepancies in the use of these treatments.
Medicare patients get different stroke care depending on plan, analysis reveals
A study by University of Virginia Health System researchers found that Medicare Advantage patients had better access to preventive care and rehabilitation after a stroke, leading to faster recovery times. In contrast, traditional Medicare patients were less likely to receive these services due to prior authorization requirements.
Barriers to mental health care leave many children behind, new data cautions
A new study by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute reveals that one in five US households reported a child needing mental health treatment, yet nearly a quarter didn't receive it. The study also found disparities among families with single parents, multi-child households, homeschooling families, and uninsured households.
New research finds state-level abortion restrictions associated with increased maternal deaths
Research found that states with five or more abortion restrictions had higher rates of maternal deaths from any cause, cardiovascular disease, and violence compared to those with fewer restrictions. Abortion is a medically safe procedure, and restricting access to it has real consequences, according to the study.
Merck Foundation grant supports heart care for formerly incarcerated Black men
The Merck Foundation grant will support a new primary care initiative focused on the cardiovascular health of formerly incarcerated Black men in Chicago. The program aims to provide integrated, comprehensive care that addresses high blood pressure and reduces the risk for heart attacks and strokes.
New resource supports trauma survivors, health professionals
A new online tool provides information and tools for clinicians to respond to emerging patient care needs, enhancing trauma-informed healthcare for individuals with C-PTSD. The resource was co-developed by researchers and survivors, aligning with best practices and patient-centered research.
Impact of the 2010 World Health Organization Code on global physician migration
A new study finds that the 2010 WHO Code initially reduced physician migration from World Health Organization-designated shortage countries, but did not improve their physician supply. The code showed promise in reducing physician emigration by approximately 2,600 fewer physicians each year, but its effects diminished over time.
Opioid use dropped in states that legalized recreational cannabis
A new study found that removing legal barriers to cannabis use may reduce daily opioid use and lower the risk of opioid-related overdoses among people who inject drugs. US states that legalized recreational cannabis saw a 9-to-11-percentage-point decline in daily opioid use among this population.
Diabetes management in disadvantaged communities improves significantly with financial incentives, study finds
A new study found that providing financial vouchers to offset medication costs can significantly improve glycemic control among patients with uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes. After six months, participants receiving performance-based incentives saw a clinically substantial reduction in HbA1c levels.
When specialization creates exclusion: the dangers of a compartmentalized medical system
A recent study highlights the dangers of a compartmentalized medical system and proposes three essential reforms to promote inclusive care. Patients with multiple conditions face difficulties in accessing care due to fragmented services, while interdisciplinary care ultimately leads to positive outcomes.
UC San Diego study cites link between mental health and long COVID in older women
A UC San Diego study found that older women with a history of depression and anxiety had a 78% higher risk of developing long COVID. The researchers analyzed data from the Women's Health Initiative and hope to inform preventative measures for public health officials and policymakers.
Research spotlight: Preventive HIV drugs under prescribed to young women at increased risk
Research reveals disparities in access to PrEP among young cisgender females and males, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve HIV prevention. The study analyzed data from over 7,000 visits to a Boston-based clinic, finding that only 17% of visits received PrEP for under-age females.
AI model identifies how every country can improve its cancer outcomes
A machine learning model has identified the most important drivers of cancer survival in nearly all countries, highlighting factors such as national wealth, access to radiotherapy and universal health coverage. The model provides data-driven roadmaps for policymakers to prioritize resources and close survival gaps.
New study highlights link between eviction rates and gun violence
A new study from the University of Chicago finds that every 1% increase in eviction rate is associated with 2.66 more shootings in Chicago neighborhoods. Eviction rates disrupt collective efficacy, a neighborhood's shared belief in working together to prevent gun violence.
Study links low lycopene intake to higher risk of severe gum disease in older adults
A study found that insufficient dietary lycopene is associated with a higher risk of severe periodontitis among U.S. adults ages 65-79. Adequate lycopene intake was linked to reduced likelihood of severe gum disease, with notable racial and sex disparities observed.
New study finds where you live affects recovery after a hip fracture
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that older adults living in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods spend significantly fewer days at home after a hip fracture. The researchers analyzed Medicare data and found that people in the most deprived areas spent about 23 fewer days at home compared to those in less disadvanta...
Black patients diagnosed with aggressive leukemia experience worse outcomes, but differences not linked to key genetic changes
A new study by University of Maryland researchers found that Black patients with aggressive leukemia have lower survival rates and are more likely to die from the disease compared to white patients. The disparity is attributed to younger age at diagnosis rather than genetic differences, according to Dr. Shella Saint Fleur-Lominy.
How do childcare tax credits affect children’s long-term health?
Research found that early childhood exposure to childcare tax credits affects children's physical and mental health outcomes differently based on their mothers' educational level. Children of more-educated mothers experienced worse health outcomes, while those of less-educated mothers showed improvements.
UN Member States pledge to increase access to diagnosis and inhaled medicines for the 480 million people living with COPD
The UN has pledged to improve access to diagnosis and treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which affects 480 million people worldwide. Inhaled medicines can reduce health and economic costs associated with COPD, but only 7% of pharmacies in low- and middle-income countries currently offer them.