Articles tagged with Health Equity
A cross-sectional study of 172 venture capital-backed maternal health startups identified significant gaps in pregnancy care delivery, particularly for low-income populations. The study found that while startups have the potential to facilitate innovation, few address health equity concerns.
A retrospective cohort study found that language-concordant physician care significantly reduces all-cause mortality in both Francophone and Allophone patients. The study suggests prioritizing patient-physician linguistic matching and evidence-based interpretation services to improve long-term survival in Canada's increasingly linguist...
The American College of Cardiology introduces a new cardiogenic shock designation to address deadly gaps in heart attack care. The new designation aims to standardize protocols and improve outcomes for patients with life-threatening complications of a heart attack, particularly in underserved areas.
A new Global Burden of Disease study found that people are spending more years living with chronic disease and disability as global life expectancy increases. The analysis revealed that high-income countries face the widest morbidity gaps, while women consistently live longer but spend more years in poor health.
A new review of current research highlights the importance of culturally grounded approaches to food systems literacy in addressing global hunger and malnutrition. The study suggests that Indigenous knowledge and participatory methods can improve food systems resilience and support communities to maintain traditional food practices.
A global monitoring platform reveals that antimicrobial resistance in children is rising, driven largely by Gram-negative bacteria. The platform forecasts that last-line carbapenem antibiotics will be highly resistant to these pathogens by 2035, posing a significant threat to children's health.
A long-term study of 1,200 women in eastern Massachusetts found that those living in disadvantaged neighborhoods faced faster declines in heart health and worse cardiovascular risk before menopause. The research highlights the importance of addressing socioeconomic factors in preventing heart disease.
A new study found that simple weekly electronic symptom check-ins with care teams significantly improves the quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment for advanced cancer. The benefits were notable among patient groups that historically faced barriers to care, including Black patients and those with less formal education.
A new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease estimates that dementia-related costs across 30 high-income European countries total €221 billion annually. Family caregivers carry a significant portion of this burden, providing an estimated €128 billion in unpaid care.
A new five-year, $2.5 million grant will support a street medicine program serving unsheltered populations in urban and rural areas of southcentral Pennsylvania. The program aims to break down healthcare barriers and provide primary care within community settings.
The Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials Award Program is training a new generation of physicians to solve healthcare's representation challenge through immersive education and mentorship. The program has grown rapidly, drawing hundreds of applicants annually from medical schools across the country.
A new study finds that higher education and income have varying health benefits across different racial and ethnic groups in the United States. For non-Hispanic Black participants, higher educational attainment was only associated with a 4% reduction in type 2 diabetes prevalence, while higher income was linked to increased obesity rates.
A systematic review found that transmasculine people have pregnancy rates ranging from 6-9%, while postnatal depression rates are unknown. Testosterone use before pregnancy is associated with lower conception rates and higher miscarriage rates.
Hospital admissions for miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy have increased in England over the past two decades, with persistent socioeconomic inequalities observed. Deliveries declined significantly during this period.
A study revealed persistent disparities in cancer care for LGBTQ+ populations, particularly transgender individuals, who face significant challenges accessing breast and cervical cancer screenings. The research highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to bridge these gaps and ensure equitable care.
A landmark international study found that halving patient out-of-pocket costs for fertility treatment significantly increased births achieved through ART, with a 2.67-fold increase reported. Countries with lower cost-to-baby metrics consistently achieved higher levels of ART utilisation, highlighting the importance of affordability in ...
Researchers have identified high rates of overweight/obesity (82%) and hypertension (higher than statewide average) in Franklin Parish, with income levels linked to lower hypertension rates. Older residents are also more likely to have undiagnosed high cholesterol and diabetes.
A new study shows that a telehealth navigator program can significantly improve blood pressure control among Black patients with hypertension cared for at federally qualified health centers. The program was associated with a 31.4 percentage point increase in the likelihood of having controlled blood pressure.
A study of three Canadian cities found that children and older adults are less likely to live near bike lanes. Montreal made significant progress in closing the gap, while Vancouver and Victoria had more concentrated expansions in downtown areas.
Digital innovations and AI can address chronic pain management gaps, while mitigating online misinformation threats. However, concerns surround equitable access to longevity medicine due to high costs and health literacy barriers. Equitable AI design is crucial for inclusive care delivery.
The collaboration aims to eliminate barriers to screening and access for medically underserved women, leveraging data science and community-based research to develop targeted solutions. By listening to residents' experiences and challenges, USC and Novartis will create lasting improvements in breast cancer care.
The Robert A. Winn Clinical Investigator Pathway Program is launching its fifth cohort, welcoming 80 medical students from across the US and Puerto Rico for a six-week immersion in clinical research, community engagement, and improving clinical trial participation. Students will gain hands-on experience at leading institutions nationwide.
Scientists have identified a unique chimeric RNA called UBA1-CDK16 that plays important roles in women's blood cell development and disease severity. The findings suggest the chimeric RNA may serve as a natural brake to protect women from excessive autoimmune activity.
A new study reveals that improving one element of a healthcare system can lead to worse patient outcomes in low- and middle-income countries due to systemic interconnectedness. Enhancing trust in the healthcare system had the greatest impact on clinical outcomes, but increased demand from more patients can quickly overwhelm services.
A cross-sectional study found that colorectal cancer screening participation increased after an organized population screening program, but socioeconomic disparities remained. Younger age groups, single households, and lower-income individuals still lag behind in screening uptake.
FemTech has expanded over the past decade to become a major force for women's health worldwide, tackling issues like reproductive health, cardiovascular disease, and chronic conditions. International funding bodies are creating opportunities for innovation, enabling researchers to redefine how women access and experience medical care.
Keck Medicine of USC hospitals and USC Student Health have received the LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader 2026 designation, earning a perfect score in five criteria. The healthcare system demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and equity through various initiatives and programs supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
Eighty medical students from across the US and Puerto Rico are selected for a six-week summer experience to introduce them to clinical research early in their careers. The program aims to develop the next generation of clinical investigators equipped to engage communities and improve participation in clinical trials.
A novel study utilizing sharing circles reveals the need for holistic strategies that blend Indigenous and Western approaches to overcome systemic barriers. Key findings include the central role of humor as a culturally grounded mode of communication and the importance of storytelling in traditional teachings.
A new study found that one in three middle-aged American adults can't consistently read prescription instructions correctly or recall details from doctor visits involving chronic conditions. The researchers recommend simplifying health information using plain language to improve patient outcomes and reduce harm.
A study from Tokyo University of Science found that public preferences for immigrants shift towards high-income individuals when their participation in the welfare system is highlighted. The researchers also discovered a joint interaction between concerns about welfare systems and job security on attitudes toward immigration.
A pilot study by researchers at the University of California, Riverside found that a culturally adapted health program helped low-income Latina and Indigenous Mexican women make healthier changes in their daily lives. The program, led by trusted community health workers called promotoras, focused on nutrition education, healthy cooking...
A pilot study of the Participant Engagement Portal (PEP) tool shows that 84% of participants had a positive experience, with high usability and satisfaction rates. PEP facilitates two-way communication between patients and clinicians, allowing for self-reporting of social risk factors and future research opportunities.
A new study finds that immigrants who are socially integrated on some dimensions but not others experience worse health, particularly among minority groups. The 'acculturative discordance' phenomenon is associated with higher disability risks after age 65, affecting one in four adults aged 65 and older.
A new study found that demand for abortion and miscarriage hotlines increased by double digits before the Dobbs decision, with states later enacting abortion bans seeing a significant surge. The hotline saw a 210% spike in use from June 2022 to June 2023.
A difference-in-differences analysis found that Georgia's Pathways to Coverage program worsened mental health among low-income adults. This suggests that work requirements may create barriers to coverage and care access, affecting population health and equity.
LGBTQ+ adults over 50 face disparities in health care, mental health, and social connections compared to non-LGBTQ+ peers. They are more likely to experience discrimination and feel isolated from others.
A recent study analyzing 670,000 patients found a higher frequency of advanced disease among non-white men and differences in access to modern therapies. The study also revealed significant racial inequalities in treatment costs, with white patients receiving 16.2% more funding.
A study found that 14 million workdays are lost annually due to menopause, while women rely on online misinformation for medical advice. The authors advocate for open conversation and inclusive approaches to combat stigma and support women's health during this transition.
Two projects, BOOST-HP and BIONIC, use machine learning to analyze large datasets of medication exposure and outcomes. The findings highlight the need for more data and cautious design of machine learning models to accurately assess potential links between medications and pregnant women.
Researchers propose a new conceptual framework called Health Elements, which integrates technological factors alongside traditional domains as core drivers of health. The framework highlights the increasingly important role of digital infrastructures in shaping health behaviors and outcomes.
A review of nearly 50,000 patients found significantly higher mortality rates for community-acquired pneumonia in intensive care units of middle-income countries compared to high-income countries. The study highlights major inequalities in outcomes and underscores the need for improved healthcare access and quality.
The Journal of Medical Internet Research publishes a theme issue on digital inclusion in the Global South, examining access, agency, and impact. The focus areas include measuring digital access, gendered digital realities, and digital innovations across health and livelihoods.
The American College of Cardiology has issued a new Expert Consensus Decision Pathway to guide postpartum cardiovascular care, emphasizing comprehensive visits and effective management of CV emergencies. The guideline aims to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality by optimizing cardiometabolic outcomes.
Research in regional Australia found nearly a third of rural siblings experience low wellbeing due to insufficient access to formal mental health services. Resilience, community support, and understanding from local communities are critical for improving sibling outcomes and addressing emotional strain.
A recent trial in Japan found community-based ultrasound screening detected 8.7% of infants with developmental dysplasia of the hip, including those without clinical signs or known risk factors. The study suggests that comprehensive ultrasound screening could help catch missed cases without requiring hospital resources.
The Health Sciences Building will serve as a nexus of learning, engagement, and research for UofL's four health sciences schools and the community. The building features extensive medical simulation facilities, dedicated spaces for learning, research, and work.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A comprehensive analysis of US state and local sanctuary and anti-sanctuary policies reveals associations with immigrants' health outcomes. Sanctuary policies are linked to improved community trust, reduced crime, and higher employment rates, while anti-sanctuary policies increase deportation risk and negatively impact mental health.
A Canadian nephrologist shared common-sense, patient-centered solutions to address inequities in organ transplantation. His team co-developed practical approaches, including culturally safe spaces, navigation support, and storytelling through videos featuring Indigenous patients.
A study found that physicians' workload increases in early pregnancy, with surgeons returning to work sooner after childbirth. The study suggests that stronger workplace supports can improve physician well-being and retention.
A new global allocation system is being proposed to address inequities in organ allocation for heart transplants. The proposal aims to reduce disparities and ensure no viable donor heart goes unused globally.
The study aims to implement skills-based mental health and substance use training for community health workers, embedded with peer recovery coaches. Over 5000 patients will be followed to measure the approach's effectiveness in re-engaging patients with care.