Research on ethnicity, identity, and health. Covers code-switching, traditional health practices, immigration and disease, and patient communication.
A new UK Biobank study analyzes data on nearly half a million participants and finds that Asian and Black groups have lower all-cause mortality rates compared to White groups. The study also identifies specific risk factors associated with each ethnic group, such as mental health diagnoses for Asians and parasitic diseases for Blacks.
The Holocaust Centre North has been awarded a £105,000 grant from the Claims Conference to expand its collection of Holocaust-related materials. The project will digitize the centre's physical archive and increase its size by 50%, making it more accessible to researchers and the public.
The ENIGMA Initiative aims to bridge knowledge gaps on brain aging factors in developing countries, particularly in India. The study will collect comprehensive data on risk and protective factors through clinical interviews, bloodwork, and brain MRI to identify universal and population-specific predictors of dementia.
Researchers identified a higher rate of premature arteriovenous graft failure among African American patients undergoing dialysis access interventions. The study, published in Radiology, found that these patients were more vulnerable to experiencing early dialysis access dysfunction and failure.
A new Cornell University-led study finds 'staggering' disparities in national sheltered homelessness rates across race and ethnicity, with Black and Indigenous Americans disproportionately affected. The report highlights a need for more comprehensive data to inform policies targeting those most at risk of homelessness.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant disparities in childcare disruption and missed preventive checkups among low-socioeconomic status families. Research highlights the need to investigate the association between delayed appointments and child health outcomes.
A new study from Trinity College Dublin identifies groups most at risk of vitamin D deficiency, including those with dark skin and low intakes. The research highlights the need for better awareness and promotion of adequate vitamin D intake through foods and supplements.
A new study found that Black and Hispanic patients are more likely to experience persistent symptoms or be diagnosed with a new medical condition after COVID-19. The study analyzed data from over 60,000 patients and found significant racial and ethnic disparities in the frequency and types of post-COVID-19 symptoms.
A study found that cystatin C-based eGFR was strongly correlated with creatinine-based eGFR and that 27% of patients would be classified as having a more severe chronic kidney stage based on cystatin C test results. The use of cystatin C can lead to changes in CKD staging, which can impact clinical management.
Research highlights the intergenerational impact of prepregnancy heart health on offspring, with low pre-pregnancy cardiovascular health linked to pregnancy complications and higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Improving women's heart health before pregnancy could reduce these risks and have a positive impact on future generations.
A study found that lower state-average educational quality was more common among Black individuals, associated with a higher dementia risk. Differential investment in high-quality education due to structural racism may contribute to these disparities.
A University of Massachusetts Amherst epidemiologist is leading a team to better understand the effects of chronic stress on future health risks. They will examine metabolites in blood samples from a large, racially diverse population to identify potential biomarkers for heart disease, diabetes and cognitive decline.
A study of 3,284 London adolescents found associations between air pollutants and blood pressure. Higher nitrogen dioxide exposure was linked to lower systolic blood pressure in girls, while higher particulate matter 2.5 exposure was linked to higher systolic blood pressure in boys.
Female residents face higher risk of unintended attrition, while underrepresented groups also experience elevated risk. The study highlights the need for strategies to support and retain diverse surgical residents.
A new study found that primary care visits addressing mental health concerns rose by almost 50% over a decade, with Black and Hispanic patients facing barriers to access. Primary care physicians welcome the opportunity to address mental health concerns but need better support systems.
A recent NTU Singapore study reconstructed the history of The Sundaland using paleogeography and population genetics to show that rapid sea-level rise drove early settlers to migrate, increasing genetic diversity. This finding provides insight into how climate change can profoundly impact human populations.
A recent study found that recurrent stroke risk has declined over the past 20 years, with a greater decrease observed among women compared to men in South Texas. The study analyzed data from nearly 6,000 first-time ischemic stroke survivors and found that lifestyle changes and medication can help prevent recurrent strokes.
A new study found that Black and Hispanic stroke survivors in the US are less likely to receive treatment for common complications, despite improved overall stroke survival rates. Researchers analyzed electronic health records from 2002 to 2022 and matched patients based on 41 factors to minimize biases.
A new study finds that Mexican American stroke survivors are less likely to receive intensive rehabilitation services compared to non-Hispanic white peers. Nearly one-third of all stroke survivors in the study did not receive any rehabilitation within 90 days of their stroke.
A study found that stock photography sites have limited representation of diverse populations, particularly people with darker skin tones and lower socioeconomic status. This limitation makes it challenging for organizations to develop effective communication tools to reach these groups.
A new study by Cornell University researchers has discovered the benefits of positive everyday racial encounters for Asian Americans. The study found that experiencing 'racial uplifts' - such as bonding over ethnic music or food, or sharing culture with others - reduces negative feelings and increases positive feelings and self-esteem.
The study analyzed all-cause and cause-specific mortality rates among pregnant and recently pregnant women in the US. It found significant racial and ethnic disparities in mortality rates, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address health inequities.
A diabetes screening program in an urban emergency department found high rates of undiagnosed prediabetes and type 2 diabetes among racial and ethnic minority individuals and low-income patients. The study suggests that targeted outreach to those with higher hemoglobin A1c levels may be more cost-effective.
A recent study found that Black and Hispanic veterans experienced longer wait times for cardiology and orthopedic services compared to white veterans, highlighting racial disparities in healthcare access
A nationwide study using Google Street View images found that predominantly White neighborhoods had better neighborhood conditions associated with good health, such as fewer neglected buildings and more greenery. In contrast, neighborhoods with residents who were primarily Black or of other minority races had fewer green spaces and mor...
Researchers identified geographic, racial and ethnic, socioeconomic, and clinical characteristics as key contributors to the elevated suicide risk among cancer patients. Timely symptom management and targeted psychosocial interventions are crucial for preventing suicide in individuals diagnosed with cancer.
Research from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that genetic analysis can identify up to 65% more A2 donors, increasing potential kidney transplants for recipient candidates with blood type B. This could improve availability and equity in kidney transplantation.
A new study finds delayed appendicitis diagnosis is more common in non-Hispanic Black adults, particularly in lower-quality hospitals with fewer minority patients. Hospital integration that serves diverse populations may improve clinical care and create a sustainable healthcare system.
A recent study from West Virginia University found that states permitting nurse practitioners to exercise full practice authority (FPA) tend to have a more diverse and racially aligned NP workforce. In FPA states, Black NPs serve 2.8% more Black Medicare beneficiaries than in non-FPA states.
Researchers at Boston Medical Center discovered that Black and Hispanic patients had significantly worse vision outcomes after surgical treatment for retinal detachment compared to their White counterparts. The study suggests higher rates of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) may contribute to these findings.
A Canadian study found that prison subcultures hinder the spread of radicalized messages, with key factors including local norms, beliefs, and behavioral expectations. The research suggests that sociocultural influences play a crucial role in understanding the relation between radicalization and prisons.
A recent study found that strong ethnic identity can buffer feelings of depression and low self-worth when Black men experience sexual objectification by white men online. Conversely, a strong commitment to ethnicity intensified feelings of low self-worth when rejected by those of their own race.
A study of 4,768 patients with cancer found that SARS-CoV-2 infection led to delayed or discontinued cancer treatment, exacerbating existing survival inequities. Racial and area-level social determinants were associated with these delays.
More than one-quarter of U.S. adults aged 71 and older had vision impairment in 2021, according to a nationally representative survey study. The prevalence of vision impairment was associated with factors such as older age, lower education and income, non-white race, and Hispanic ethnicity.
A new study found that teenagers who reported feeling optimistic, happy, and loved had better cardiometabolic health outcomes in adulthood. Despite this, racial disparities remained apparent, with Black teens facing increased health risks due to structural racism.
Research published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society indicates social isolation is common among older U.S. adults and increases their likelihood of developing dementia. Nearly one-quarter of participants were socially isolated, and being isolated was associated with a 28% higher risk of dementia over 9 years.
A study by Kingston University found that Covid-19 conspiracy theories led to a lower engagement with health prevention methods among the UK Black community. The research revealed that perceived racial injustice and mistrust of institutions contributed to this phenomenon.
The meta-analysis of 47 studies and 1 million patients suggests a vital role for social determinants of health variables in developing strategies to achieve equity. Incorporating these variables can significantly impact prostate cancer–specific mortality and overall survival among men with prostate cancer.
A study by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found a link between recreational cannabis legalization and increased asthma prevalence among teens, especially minority racial and ethnic groups. Exposure to secondhand smoke is a key risk factor for asthma in children.
A large study found that greater adherence to healthy eating patterns was associated with a lower risk of total and cause-specific mortality. The study followed 119,000 participants over 36 years and showed consistent associations across different racial and ethnic groups.
A quality improvement program implemented to reduce disparities in blood pressure control between Black and white patients resulted in improved outcomes. However, disparities were not eliminated, suggesting a need for further targeted interventions.
A survey of US neonatal nurse practitioner education programs found that underrepresented groups make up less than 20% of faculty and students. Despite disparities in NICU admissions, there is no significant difference in racial/ethnic composition between NNP faculty and students.
Researchers identified six genes associated with dementia risk in people of African ancestry, differing from those found in European populations. The study highlights the need for increased representation of non-European ancestry groups in genetic research to address health disparities.
A UCR-led analysis recommends culturally sensitive mental health screenings for schools, focusing on identifying social determinants of health and strengths. These screenings can help schools build resilience, address needs like food insecurity, and combat disproportionate referrals for special education or exclusionary discipline.
The Inflation Reduction Act offers significant benefits for public health through its tax credits and financial incentives. The law aims to reduce the adverse health effects of climate change by targeting greenhouse gases, conventional air pollutants, and carcinogenic chemical contaminants. By providing a more politically feasible appr...
Studies found underrepresentation of American Indian, Asian, Black, and Latinx groups in obstetrics and gynecology research. The disparity varies by race, ethnicity, subspecialty, and funder, with some subspecialties having more diverse trials than others.
Non-Hispanic Black patients are less likely to undergo minimally invasive mitral valve surgery and experience poorer outcomes compared to non-Hispanic white patients. Increasing access to private insurance and high-volume surgeons may be necessary to address these disparities.
A new Northwestern Medicine study found that all U.S. OB-GYN subspecialties lack racial and ethnic representation in clinical trials and research publications. This absence has negative consequences, including biased tools for diagnosing endometrial cancer and unacceptably low sensitivity in the Black female population.
Over three decades, glycemic control stagnated among US adults with diabetes, exacerbating racial and ethnic disparities. Improved insulin access may optimize glycemic control and reduce disparities in this population.
Firearm-related deaths among children and adolescents show racial and ethnic disparities, with Black youths bearing the highest burden. The study reveals a recent increase in mortality rates, potentially linked to the COVID-19 pandemic and social unrest.
The study found that representation of women in academic medicine increased with time, while underrepresented groups like Hispanic populations experienced modest gains with variability across institutions. Despite progress, significant disparities remain in medical school faculty demographics.
A new study reveals that second-generation Indian American adolescents face discrimination as early as preschool, influencing their development of identities. The research found that these adolescents experience hate crimes, discriminatory comments from peers, and difficulties balancing their Indian identity with their desire to be see...
A study of 38,000 child homicides from 1999 to 2020 found declining rates in some groups, but recent increases across several subpopulations. The researchers emphasize the need for targeted strategies to address firearm violence and racial disparities.
A study of 11,000 participants found that pandemic-associated hardships and behaviors were linked to increased traumatic stress symptoms in mothers from diverse backgrounds. Researchers emphasize the importance of designing effective mental health programs during public health crises like COVID-19.
A recent study suggests that taking pride in one's identity can help protect mental health from online hate, with Asian Americans showing increased resilience. The research found that those who affirmed their identities were more likely to experience better psychological and physical health, as well as stronger personal relationships.
A UCLA study conducted by Zili Liu and Chéla R Willey found that white, Asian American, and recent Asian immigrant college students performed similarly on a well-known visual perception test, known as the rod-and-frame task. The results suggest that basic visual functions are largely independent of cultural variation.
A new study found that Black women with depression more often report somatic and self-critical symptoms than traditional depression symptoms. The study suggests that health care providers may miss these symptoms, resulting in underdiagnosis and undertreatment.
A new study finds that discrimination influences the central and enteric nervous systems, altering the bidirectional signaling between the brain and gut microbiome. This leads to changes in systemic inflammation, emotional arousal, and psychological symptoms across different racial and ethnic groups.
A new study calls for anti-racist and holistic models of care to address ethnic inequalities in mental healthcare. The research highlights the need to consider social factors, racism, and cultural aspects of illness to produce equitable care.
A survey of over 1,300 parents found significant racial and ethnic differences in swimming skills, with White parents reporting higher comfort levels and more children receiving swim lessons. Culturally tailored programs to address these disparities may help reduce drowning rates among Black and Latine communities.