Research on ethnicity, identity, and health. Covers code-switching, traditional health practices, immigration and disease, and patient communication.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified genetic variations in ERG associated with an increased risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in Hispanic children. These variations were more common and had a stronger effect in Hispanic children than in other ethnic groups.
A new study published in the Journal of Research on Adolescence found that 26% of LGBTQ teenagers use emerging sexual identity labels, highlighting the need for researchers to capture nuanced experiences. The study also notes a divergence in patterns of sexual identification based on ethnicity and gender identity.
A recent study by Arizona State University and DePaul University found that there are only four well-established mental health interventions for ethnic minority youth in the US, addressing issues like anxiety, disruptive behaviors, substance use, and trauma. Cognitive behavioral interventions were effective for Hispanic and Latino yout...
A study of 15 highest-ranked social sciences and public health universities reveals persistent gender disparities in senior positions, with women concentrated in junior roles. Ethnic minority representation also lags behind, with women of color severely underrepresented in senior positions.
African Americans, especially women, face a significantly higher risk of sudden cardiac death due to factors like low income and education. The study found that these disparities accounted for 65% of the difference in risk between African Americans and whites.
A study analyzing electronic health records found that Native Americans experience a higher incidence of ischemic stroke, with common risk factors including high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking. The study also revealed significant increases in these modifiable risk factors between 2000 and 2016.
A recent study by Rutgers University found that African-Americans are 5 times more likely to develop hypertensive emergency, a life-threatening condition. Targeted interventions to control diabetes, chronic heart and kidney disease, and anemia may reduce the risk of drastic increases in blood pressure.
African American women with a history of keloids are more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive, late-stage breast cancers. The study found a link between ethnic variations in tumor immune response and the unique cancer risk.
A UK study found lower cognitive scores and earlier dementia diagnoses in Asian and Black patients compared to White patients. The research highlights the need for tailored prevention initiatives and early diagnosis across ethnic groups.
A new study by University of Washington researchers found that free-floating bike share programs in Seattle have low helmet usage, with only 20% of riders wearing helmets. The study also showed that bikes were available in all neighborhoods across economic and racial lines, but more bikes were located in affluent areas.
A recent study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology analyzed data from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute's Severe Asthma Research Program. The research found that African American patients are more likely to experience emergency hospital visits for asthma and have poorer asthma outcomes due to socioecon...
Researchers found that South Asian men had high rates of calcification change in artery walls, similar to white men, and higher risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes at a younger age. Early detection of coronary artery calcium through CT scans may help guide treatment options for this population.
PhD students from underrepresented minority groups publish more research when their institutional culture is welcoming and sets clear expectations. Black students face challenges due to negative experiences in white settings, but these are mitigated by a sense of preparedness and belonging.
A new study links certain consumer behaviors, including flossing with Oral-B Glide, to elevated levels of toxic PFAS chemicals in the body. The findings suggest that consumers can limit their exposures by modifying their behavior and choosing flosses without PFAS.
Researchers found that while some peer crowds remain constant, new groups like 'anime/manga' fans and 'loners' have emerged, reflecting changing times. Academic anxiety is on the rise among high-achieving students, who fear disappointing their parents.
A team of researchers discovered that APOL1 risk variants, previously known to affect African and African American populations, are also found at appreciable frequencies in Caribbean and Latin American populations. This finding could help physicians tailor treatment more closely to their needs through precision medicine.
A new study reveals biases against immigrants with non-anglicized names in the US, particularly in moral dilemmas. The research suggests that anglicizing ethnic names may reduce bias towards immigrants, but cautioning against promoting equity through name changes.
A study analyzing genome-wide data from 693 individuals in the Democratic Republic of Congo found that present-day Kuba are genetically diverse and similar to neighboring groups, suggesting historical unification during state centralization. This research underscores the potential of genomics to reconstruct societal histories.
A new study found elevated mortality patterns among late-Gen X (38-45 year-olds) and early-Gen Y (27-37 year-olds), with non-Hispanic whites being disproportionately affected. The study suggests that economic difficulties during the Great Recession may have contributed to increased health impacts on these age groups.
Research reveals extreme ethnic inequalities in the care system, with disparities affecting children from minority ethnic groups. The study found that 'White British' children are ten times more likely to be in care than 'Asian Indian' children, and 'Black Caribbean' children are 20 times more likely.
A study of US medical schools found that implementation of diversity standards led to an increase in female and black students. However, disparities persist in the physician workforce, highlighting ongoing challenges to achieving diversity.
Researchers discovered 12 bacteria types consistently varying in abundance by ethnicity, highlighting a baseline for understanding healthy microbiome differences among individuals. The findings hold promise for developing personalized approaches to prevent and treat chronic diseases disproportionately affecting ethnic minorities.
The occurrence and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children are influenced by multiple factors, including preterm birth, genetic predisposition, HIV status, and access to kidney transplant. Clinicians must consider these competing issues when treating affected children.
Researchers found African Americans had significantly more weight regain than Caucasians, while both groups experienced rapid weight gain over time. The study highlights the need for future research into racial differences in bariatric surgery outcomes.
Researchers identified early career publications as a contributor to the racial gap in NIH funding, suggesting that mentoring interventions can help convert grant funding into competitive publication records. The study found that black or African-American scientists reported fewer papers and citations compared to their white counterparts.
A recent study sequenced ancient genomes from Alaska to Patagonia, debunking a long-standing theory about Paleoamerican presence in North America. The research found the Spirit Cave remains were genetically closer to contemporary Native Americans than any other ancient or contemporary group.
A new study reveals that racial and ethnic minorities face greater vulnerability to wildfires, with Native Americans being six times more likely to live in high-risk areas. The research used a 'vulnerability index' to assess wildfire risk in communities across the US, integrating physical risk with social and economic resilience.
A study found racial and ethnic differences in emergency pain relief for children with long bone fractures, with minority children more likely to receive pain medication but less likely to receive opioid analgesia. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes the importance of consistent pain management for all pediatric patients.
Research suggests that over 10 million US children live more than 60 miles from the nearest pediatric surgeon, with significant implications for treatment delays and added costs. The study aims to provide a framework for regionalization efforts based on patient location using publicly available data.
A new study found that gaps between screen time and outdoor time are most pronounced for girls, African American students, and eighth graders. Connection to nature plays a positive role in young people's physical health and psychological development, but contemporary children are spending less time outdoors than their predecessors.
A new study reveals children as young as 7 experience negative impacts of discrimination, with a strong sense of ethnic-racial identity acting as a protective factor. The research suggests that promoting understanding and belonging to one's ethnic group in early development can help mitigate these effects.
The Kessler Foundation's LU-RRTC aims to improve minority-serving institutions' capacity and infrastructure to engage in disability and rehabilitation research. The grant will empower these institutions to increase their output of disability and health research, fostering maximum social and economic independence for individuals with di...
A new study led by NYU School of Medicine found that a faith-based intervention delivered in churches significantly reduced blood pressure among African Americans. The intervention, which combined lifestyle changes with motivational interviewing, showed a 5.8 mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure after six months.
Researchers found a significant correlation between H. pylori infections and colorectal cancer incidence, especially in African Americans. The study analyzed data from over 4,000 cases and found that antibodies to four H. pylori proteins were most often present among those with colorectal cancer.
Less-educated African American women who experience high levels of racial discrimination are more likely to develop chronic diseases. Higher education may buffer against some negative health effects of bias, according to the study.
Researchers uncover evidence of ancient goiter and thyroid disease using science and art in a 2,000-year-old carved statue. The discovery challenges traditional theories about the statue's representation of achondroplasia, providing new insights into the health and diet of Native Americans.
A new paper by Cornell University researchers suggests dating apps should encourage users to filter out race and ethnicity, promoting inclusive community messages and algorithms. Simple design decisions could decrease bias against marginalized groups, the authors argue.
A study by Yale physicians found that minority residents experience daily bias and microaggressions, as well as being asked to serve as 'ambassadors' for diversity. The researchers emphasize the need for proactive efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in residency programs.
A new study explores the role of race/ethnicity in training experiences among minority resident physicians, revealing common scenarios including routine bias and lack of institutional support. The research highlights challenges faced by these physicians in balancing professional and personal identity.
Researchers analyzed 214 studies on 91,338 adolescents to find that racial and ethnic discrimination influences all aspects of daily life and well-being. Discrimination is linked to poorer mental health, lower academic achievement, and more negative behaviors.
The Gerontological Society of America has selected 20 reporters to produce in-depth aging-focused stories, covering topics such as retirement security and immigration policies. The fellows will have access to expert attendees and researchers at the GSA's annual scientific meeting.
A collection of JAMA articles explores the intersection of race, ancestry, and medical research, highlighting historical context and current challenges. The studies reveal the importance of accurately representing diverse populations in medical journals.
A meta-analysis found that perceived racial/ethnic discrimination is consistently linked to poorer mental health, lower academic achievement, and more engagement in risky or negative behaviors. Latino youth tend to exhibit higher levels of depression than their white and African-American peers in response to discrimination.
A study analyzing California hospital visits from 2005 to 2015 found that rates of law enforcement-inflicted injuries increased until 2009 but declined thereafter, with black individuals at greatest risk. The proportion of injuries involving firearms decreased, while those associated with behavioral health diagnoses rose
A new study from UC Berkeley Haas School of Business uses computational models to analyze how people treat others differently based on stereotypes. Researchers found that variations in perceived traits translate to differences in treatment, with warmer groups receiving more than competent ones.
A study by The BMJ reveals a small but significant pay gap between white and black minority ethnic (BME) hospital doctors in England. For consultant grades, the gap is larger, with white consultants earning an extra £4,644 per year compared to BME consultants. Further investigation into the reasons behind these differences is warranted.
Researchers found that high levels of aldosterone increase insulin resistance and impair insulin secretion, leading to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. African Americans with high aldosterone levels have almost a three-fold increased risk, while Chinese Americans are 10 times more likely to develop diabetes.
A study using machine learning analyzed over 2,500 participants to rank determinants of future affluence. Occupation and education were the best predictors, followed by location, gender, and surprisingly, delay discounting, a person's ability to wait for rewards.
A comprehensive case study found that Denver's parks don't adequately serve all city residents due to historical zoning codes and funding policies. The study suggests that improving park access for low-income people of color requires working with equity-oriented nonprofits and utilizing publicly owned land.
Keith E. Whitfield, PhD, is recognized for his contributions to the study of aging and health disparities among older African Americans. He has published extensively on biobehavioral aspects of cognitive aging and has received numerous awards for his mentorship and research.
A new study examines the link between socioeconomic status and racial & ethnic disparities in childhood cancer survival. The research found that socioeconomic status significantly mediate the association between race/ethnicity and survival for certain types of childhood cancers, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leuke...
A study of 506 black youths found that African American boys felt less safe in areas that were modestly more white than their usual hangouts. The researchers tracked the teens' locations using smartphones and asked them to rate their safety levels. Black boys felt less safe in poorer neighborhoods as well as those with higher white pop...
A study found that Medicare preventive care visits are lower in racial and ethnic minority patients, with income and education partially explaining the difference. The rate of use increased modestly since its introduction but remains low, highlighting the need to promote its use among beneficiaries and providers.
A University of Kansas study suggests that food prices in ethnic enclaves impact assimilation rates and consumer spending patterns among Mexican and East Asian immigrants. The researchers found that Mexican immigrants spend less on food, while East Asian immigrants spend more, which could explain the difference in assimilation rates.
A new UCL-led study found that dementia diagnosis rates are 25% higher among black women and 28% higher among black men compared to white counterparts. Researchers suggest that inequalities in care, stigma, and cultural background may contribute to these disparities.
A copper band discovered in coastal Georgia indicates that ancient Native Americans had a more extensive trade network than previously thought. The band was manufactured in the Great Lakes region and shows that the practice of cremation was used across a wider area than previously known, suggesting shared cultural values.
A Stanford study reveals that Native American tribes are increasingly asserting their rights to groundwater, with potential implications for Western US water management. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians' victory in federal court sets a precedent for tribal groundwater claims, which could lead to more tribes seeking resolution...
A new study by researchers from the University of South Carolina shows that US counties with a history of lynching events have higher contemporary mortality rates for both white and black populations. The study found significant associations between past lynchings and increased mortality rates, especially among African American females.
Carolyn B. Murray, a professor of psychology at UCR, has been awarded the 2018 Dr. William Montague Cobb award for her research and activism addressing health disparities in African American communities. She will receive the honor on July 16 at the Annual NAACP Convention.
Research found people selectively identify with ethnicities they view as positive while disregarding others. White respondents were more likely to embrace new racial identities if they felt others would still accept them.