Articles tagged with Health Disparity
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
A study found that only 6% of FDA-approved drugs reflect the US racial and ethnic makeup, with a decline in Black and Hispanic enrollment between 2021 and 2023. The researchers recommend setting diversity goals at preclinical stages and collecting biological samples to understand how people's bodies react to medications.
A new study found that adults hospitalized with RSV often struggle with breathlessness, reduced ability to perform everyday activities, and lower quality of life six to 12 months after their hospitalization. The study also showed that younger adults can experience serious RSV infections requiring hospitalization, similar to older adults.
A recent study found that home-delivered groceries can significantly improve blood sugar control among adults with type 2 diabetes who experience food insecurity. The program provided culturally relevant, medically tailored groceries and education materials, leading to a clinically meaningful reduction in hemoglobin A1c levels.
Researchers measured dyadic alliance in support groups using computational algorithms and found verbal and nonverbal communication features, such as head poses and facial expressions, to be strong predictors of connection. The study suggests that AI can potentially identify behavioral markers of alliance and may have a role in mental h...
Black patients with acute myeloid leukemia are diagnosed at younger ages and have worse outcomes compared to white patients, according to a study analyzing data from 10 clinical trials over 34 years. The study found that Black patients had a higher risk of dying from AML and any cause, even when treated with similar mutations.
A new series of case studies by The Lancet highlights the social and cultural forces contributing to global health inequities. Medical anthropologist Carlos Martinez's study focuses on asylum seekers' access to healthcare, citing the need for clinicians to partner with community-based organizations to overcome challenges.
The program provides financial aid and unique clinical experiences to medical students, encouraging them to become community physicians. UCF College of Medicine hopes the program can be used as a national model to address the nation's primary care physician shortage.
A new study suggests that genetic differences passed down from ancient human ancestors and exposure to common chemicals could explain why some women are more likely to develop endometriosis. Researchers identified six genetic variants linked to the condition, which also occur in genes sensitive to modern pollutants.
The UCF Health Mobile Health Clinic provides free high-quality healthcare services to underserved communities, serving as a real-world classroom for medical and nursing students. The clinic aims to reduce preventable conditions and improve long-term health through comprehensive screenings, chronic disease monitoring, and education.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that only 13% of US adults with cardiovascular disease met optimal LDL-C management, highlighting significant gaps between guideline recommendations and clinical care. The study suggests actionable steps to improve adherence, including increased use of non-...
A new study analyzing dozens of published papers found that medical humanities approaches identified crucial barriers and opportunities for intervention, including systemic information gaps and stigma-related barriers. The study highlights the importance of a human-centered approach in understanding health inequities.
The study found that federal loan restrictions will place substantial financial barriers on aspiring physicians, potentially reducing workforce diversity and worsening existing physician shortages. The researchers urge policymakers and medical schools to consider targeted solutions like loan forgiveness or tuition reduction programs.
A University of California, Riverside-led study found a community-based health program improving lifestyle changes in low-income, rural Latinas. The program, ¡Coma, Muévase y Viva!, combined health education, cooking demos, and exercise, resulting in increased healthy habits, weight loss, and improved chronic disease management.
A new report warns that AI can worsen health disparities in brain disease diagnoses if proper safeguards are not implemented. Researchers call for diverse perspectives, AI education, and strong governance to ensure equitable implementation.
A new Lancet Series exposes the tactics used by UPF companies and outlines a roadmap for change. The series calls for government regulation, community mobilisation, and accessible healthier diets to address the growing consumption of ultra-processed foods.
A qualitative study found that physician responses to patient expectations contribute to pay gaps among Canadian physicians, particularly women, racialized, and immigrant physicians. Researchers suggest adjusting compensation models for extra time required for certain care types and examining fee schedules for underpaid services.
Headache disorders affect nearly one in every three people, causing significant disability and health loss. Migraine and medication overuse drive most of the global burden, emphasizing the need for improved prevention, management, and access to care.
The University of Houston is part of a statewide effort to fight the opioid epidemic by investigating opioid use disorder among people living with HIV in Harris County. Researchers aim to integrate prevention methods, including Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT), into treatment for those affected.
The study found CKD affects nearly 800 million worldwide, with diabetes and high blood pressure driving the greatest loss of healthy years. Access to kidney replacement therapies remains limited, highlighting the need for preventive measures and equitable care.
A study by Brown University and Harvard University found that premature deaths among adults aged 18-64 increased by 27% from 2012 to 2022, with Black Americans facing a 38% higher rate. This trend prevents many from accessing Medicare benefits, highlighting the inequities in the social safety net.
A new study estimates that about 14% of adults worldwide have chronic kidney disease, with 1.5 million deaths in 2023. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent severe interventions like dialysis and transplantation.
Immigration enforcement policies are producing widespread harm to physical and mental health, with family separation and fear affecting communities. Researchers call for an end to deportations and restrictive immigration policies, highlighting the need for community care and solidarity.
A study analyzing US birth records found that a cap-and-trade initiative to reduce ozone pollution significantly improved infant health outcomes, including higher birth weight and lower rates of low birth weight and very preterm birth.
A global survey of nearly 4,000 young women with advanced breast cancer found that nearly half have children under 18 and face significant hardship. The study also revealed delays in seeking care, unmet psychosocial needs, and limited access to precision diagnostics.
A new USC study identified five genes linked to aggressive prostate cancer in people of African descent, including ATM, BRCA2, CHEK2, HOXB13 and PALB2. The researchers developed a method combining genetic risk scores with family history and specific variant presence for personalized monitoring and treatment strategies.
The Family Heart Foundation has launched the Lp(a) AW(a)RE initiative to educate primary care clinicians, healthcare insurance providers, and policymakers about high lipoprotein(a). The program aims to increase awareness, screening, and diagnosis of this genetic risk factor for premature cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Harolyn Belcher is recognized for her significant contributions to advancing child and adolescent health, well-being, and equity through quality improvement, advocacy, practice, or research. Her work has had a far-reaching impact on the lives of marginalized communities.
A study of almost 10 million patients in Ontario found that those living over 30 km from their family physician were more likely to visit the emergency department for nonurgent reasons and had fewer visits with a family physician. The distance also negatively impacted preventive screening for certain cancers.
A University of Michigan study found that Medicaid coverage is linked to employment gains among low-income adults with serious health problems. Employment nearly doubled among enrollees who experienced improved health, from 26% to 47%. This suggests that Medicaid expansion may actually help individuals participate in the workforce.
A new study from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center identifies unique genetic signatures in cancer patients of non-European ancestry and finds adding immunotherapy can boost effectiveness for hard-to-treat follicular lymphomas. Additionally, researchers discover a web-based system to report head-and-neck cancer concerns, leading to...
The editorial highlights how biological sex and gender inequities contribute to suboptimal sepsis treatment, potentially compromising outcomes for women. Hormonal fluctuations, body composition, and renal clearance all influence drug processing, yet these variables are rarely considered in dosing algorithms.
The journal is launching a new section to popularize evidence-based strategic planning in digital health and provide comprehensive guidelines for its application. Papers can explore topics such as strategic planning frameworks, case studies of successful implementations, and stakeholder engagement.
A new framework harnesses generative AI to create personalized mental health treatment plans, addressing common barriers and improving outcomes for diverse individuals. The study uses a simulated client to explore pathways to mental health care and demographic disparities.
The study analyzed linked health data for over 57 million people in England, finding drops in cardiovascular disease incidence during the pandemic. However, diagnoses rates have returned to pre-pandemic levels, with increased cases of heart failure and inflammation of heart tissue observed after the pandemic.
A study measuring the impact of a data-driven health strengthening project in Madagascar demonstrates success with a 30% reduction in child deaths. The project provides universal access to basic healthcare, improving outcomes despite challenging conditions.
The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.
A new RNA-based therapy targeting Marfan syndrome shows promise in treating the genetic disorder, which can lead to aortic aneurysms and be fatal. The therapy, developed by Mizzou researcher Dunpeng Cai, aims to correct mutated RNA for those with Marfan syndrome.
A new study warns that dental shame can lead to lower self-worth and unfavourable oral health care behaviours, exacerbating existing oral health inequalities. Researchers emphasize the need for non-judgmental environments where patients feel empowered to prioritize their oral health.
Researchers found that Medicaid accountable care organizations (ACOs) can improve some maternal health outcomes if designed thoughtfully. The study highlights the importance of value-based care delivery design within Medicaid programs to support low-income women before, during, and after pregnancy.
A new report highlights how a California partnership, STOP COVID-19 CA, helped address health inequalities during the pandemic by bringing together researchers and communities. The network improved access to reliable information, testing, and vaccination, while laying the foundation for long-term health equity.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions calls for Medicaid payment parity, fairer valuation of CHD procedures, and new compensation models to support care for children and adults with congenital heart disease. This policy statement aims to improve outcomes by addressing economic inequities in the healthcare system.
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities account for more than one in five patients who have been in Ontario's mental health beds for over a year. Enhancing specialized supports both in hospital and community settings can reduce their length of stay and admission rates.
A new study found that over 40% of specialty clinics in the US turn away patients weighing 465 pounds or more due to lack of accessibility features. The study highlights a need for staff training on inclusive care and accommodations for patients with severe obesity.
A large-scale study of over 17,000 pupils and 2,300 teachers found dramatic differences in physical activity levels across England, with some schools achieving double or triple the levels of others. The research highlights growing evidence that children in deprived areas face bigger barriers to physical activity, even during school hours.
A study found that virtual care expansion in Ontario did not lead to a significant increase in specialists' practices in rural areas. Despite the widespread availability of virtual care and changes in remuneration, the researchers discovered that specialist physicians did not expand their reach to patients living at great distances.
A portable device using machine learning can detect signs of concussions in real-time, providing a more objective way to assess injuries. The Mizzou Point-of-Care Assessment System combines a force plate, depth camera and interface board to track movement, balance and reaction times.
The University of Bergen's 'Fair Choices on the Path to Universal Health Coverage' project aims to strengthen low- and middle-income countries in handling cuts in development aid. The project will improve priority setting through evidence-informed, context-specific approaches, collaborating with academic institutions and governing bodi...
A recent study analyzing data from the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Surveys (2016-2023) found that cardiovascular disease risk increased in Mexico between 2016 and 2023. The average 10-year CVD risk was estimated at 9.5% using region-specific tools, highlighting the need for accurate models to predict local disease burden.
A new study from IU researchers found that simple screening questionnaires performed better than advanced machine learning methods in measuring social needs. However, each method had gaps, particularly with financial strain, which was harder to identify.
A new study from Tufts University found nearly one in three young adults skipped dental visits due to cost and lack of insurance coverage. Young adults were more likely to skip medical care, struggle with copays, and report poor mental health or memory problems.
A new study reveals that population aging is the largest contributor to musculoskeletal disorders globally, accounting for approximately one third of countries and territories. The research highlights the need for targeted public health strategies and healthcare resource allocation to alleviate the burden of these disorders.
A UCLA Health study found that only a handful of top Alzheimer's disease organizations in Los Angeles County had features or tools to improve access for Latino and Hispanic families. The study highlights the need for accessible digital solutions to close the existing digital divide among these communities.
A new study reveals persistent disparities in telehealth access among rural US populations, with older adults, Spanish speakers, and those on Medicaid or Medicare facing significant barriers. The research highlights the need for policy reform and digital health equity efforts to address these disparities and improve virtual care access.
Only 4 in 10 US retail pharmacies carry buprenorphine, a highly effective opioid addiction treatment, with disparities persisting in minority neighborhoods. Tight pharmacy regulations discourage pharmacies from carrying the treatment, limiting access to vulnerable communities.
A new report from Emory University reveals that certain mental health conditions can raise the risk of developing heart disease by 50-100% and adverse outcomes from existing heart conditions by 60-170%. The study emphasizes a bidirectional relationship between cardiovascular disease and mental health, highlighting the need for an integ...