#healthcaredisparities

[blackhistorychatgpt]

Tell me about income and wealth disparity in America

I went to a panel tonight on Reimagining Public Health in NYC - A Discussion on the Racial and Wealth Gap and Health Equity

Me:

Can you write an essay about the connection between redlining, income and wealth gap, and health outcomes in the Black community? Highlight the disparity in maternal mortality race based upon race

ChatGPT:

The connection between redlining, income and wealth gap, and health outcomes in the Black community is multifaceted and complex. Redlining, a discriminatory practice that involves denying financial services or access to housing based on race, has had a significant impact on the economic wellbeing of Black families. This, in turn, has contributed to the widening income and wealth gap between Black and white households, which has led to disparities in health outcomes.

Redlining began in the 1930s and was a federal government policy that allowed banks and other financial institutions to deny loans and insurance to people living in certain neighborhoods. These neighborhoods were typically populated by Black families and other minorities, and the practice was based on the assumption that these communities were risky investments. As a result, these neighborhoods were deprived of essential resources such as quality education, healthcare, and healthy food options.

The legacy of redlining has contributed to the income and wealth gap between Black and white households. According to a study by the Brookings Institution, the median wealth of white households is ten times that of Black households. This disparity is largely due to historical and ongoing discrimination that has limited Black families' access to education, employment, and housing opportunities.

The income and wealth gap has had a profound impact on the health outcomes of the Black community. Black Americans have higher rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, which are often linked to poverty and limited access to healthcare. They are also more likely to die from these diseases than white Americans.

One area where the impact of these disparities is particularly stark is maternal mortality. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women. This disparity cannot be explained by differences in income or education level, as it persists across all socioeconomic levels.

There are several reasons for this disparity, including the fact that Black women are more likely to experience complications during pregnancy, such as hypertension and pre-eclampsia. They are also more likely to receive substandard care during pregnancy and childbirth, including being ignored or dismissed when they report symptoms of distress. Studies have shown that implicit bias and stereotypes about Black women's pain and abilities to cope with childbirth are also factors.

To address these disparities, it is essential to address the root causes of redlining, income and wealth gap, and implicit bias in healthcare. Policies and initiatives that promote equitable access to education, employment, and affordable housing are essential. Additionally, healthcare providers must receive training to recognize and address implicit biases that may affect their care of Black patients. Finally, Black women must be empowered to advocate for their health and hold healthcare providers accountable for providing high-quality care.

In conclusion, the connection between redlining, income and wealth gap, and health outcomes in the Black community is a complex and multi-layered issue. The legacy of redlining has contributed to the income and wealth gap between Black and white households, which, in turn, has led to disparities in health outcomes, including maternal mortality. Addressing these disparities will require a comprehensive approach that involves addressing the root causes of redlining, income and wealth gap, and implicit bias in healthcare.

[ebookdata-store]

Mental Health Crisis: 1Alarming Stats & Urgent Solutions Worldwide

Mental health Crisis challenges and wellness issues vary significantly across regions, with distinct patterns emerging in India, the US, UK, Germany, Ireland, and globally. Below is an organized analysis based on recent data:

Global Overview

- 1 in 2 people may develop a mental health Crisis disorder in their lifetime, with depression as the leading cause of disability worldwide9. - Anxiety/depressive disorders caused 550,220 Years Lived with Disability (YLDs) globally in 20192. - Only 2% of health budgets are allocated to mental health care globally, worsening treatment gaps9.

India

Mental Health Crisis

- 13% of adolescents (13–17 years) in urban areas experience depression, anxiety, or substance abuse3. - 83% treatment gap exists for mental health Crisis conditions, with digital solutions emerging as alternatives3.

ADHD Crisis

- 11.32% prevalence among children in Coimbatore (higher than global averages)4. - Estimated 10 million children diagnosed annually, predominantly males (66.7%)410. - 25.7% of adults potentially affected by ADHD, though underdiagnosis persists10.

Stress Factors

- Urban youth face stress from academic pressure, parental expectations, and social norms3.

United States

ADHD

- Highest global childhood ADHD rate at 8.1%5. - Dominates 90% of the $11.9B ADHD pharmaceutical market6.

Mental Health

- 20% decline in psychiatrists projected by 2030, risking treatment access9. - Pandemic increased depressive symptoms from 10% (2019) to 21% (2021)8.

United Kingdom

Mental Health Crisis

- 20% of children (8–16 years) had probable mental disorders in 2023, doubling from 20178. - 1 in 6 adults experienced common mental health problems in 2014 surveys8.

Healthcare Strain

- £16.8B spent on mental health services in 2023/24, up from £12B in 20178.

Germany

Mental Health Crisis

- Highest EU in-patient discharge rate (1,463 per 100,000) for mental/behavioral disorders7. - 25% of discharges linked to mood disorders (429 per 100,000)7.

Vulnerable Groups

- Women and adults over 65 face higher risks1.

Ireland

(Note: Limited country-specific data in sources. EU-wide trends suggest similarities with Germany/UK.)

Cross-Cutting Issues

Screen Time & Wellness

- Digital mental health tools show promise but require privacy safeguards (India case study)3. - Workplace wellness programs are critical for prevention globally9.

Affected Demographics

- Children/Adolescents: High ADHD rates (India, US), stress from academics (India), and rising disorders (UK). - Women: Higher susceptibility to anxiety/depression in Europe17. - Low-Income Groups: Face systemic barriers to care in all regions39. This report highlights urgent needs for increased funding, workforce development, and culturally tailored interventions across nations.

How do mental health Crisis issues differ between urban and rural areas in India

Mental health Crisis challenges in India exhibit distinct patterns between urban and rural areas, shaped by socioeconomic, cultural, and infrastructural disparities. Recent data highlights both emerging and persistent trends:

Prevalence and Types of Disorders

- Urban Areas: - Historically higher rates of depression, anxiety, and neurotic disorders (13.5% prevalence in urban metros vs. 6.9% rural)54. - Stressors include social dislocation, academic/work pressure, and fast-paced lifestyles3. - Rural Areas: - Substance use disorders (alcohol/tobacco) are more prevalent (35–42% rural vs. 20–25% urban)41. - Anxiety is rising sharply, with 45% of rural respondents reporting symptoms in 2024, challenging the urban-centric narrative67. - Higher depression rates among older adults with multimorbidity (38.33% rural vs. 28.85% urban), linked to caste discrimination and healthcare access gaps2.

Contributing Factors

- Rural Challenges: - Agricultural distress, migration-induced family breakdowns, and lack of mental health Crisis infrastructure46. - 83% treatment gap due to stigma, low literacy, and minimal mental health funding13. - Elderly face isolation and caregiver shortages (73% rural households need constant care)6. - Urban Stressors: - Competitive environments, disrupted social networks, and financial instability3. - Higher reported mood swings among adolescents (43%) post-pandemic5.

Healthcare Access Disparities

- Rural: - Only 3% hire external caregivers; reliance on untrained family members (mostly women)6. - Fewer psychiatrists and clinics, with services often limited to periodic camps4. - Urban: - Better access to specialists but strained systems (20% psychiatrist shortage projected by 2030)35. - High costs and overcrowding limit effective care3.

Demographic Vulnerabilities

- Rural Elderly: Face compounded risks from chronic illnesses, disability, and social neglect26. - Urban Youth: Report heightened anxiety (40% in 18–25 age group) linked to academic pressures5.

Recent Shifts

- Rural Anxiety Surge: 53% of rural adults over 60 report anxiety, reflecting changing stressors like climate-related agricultural crises67. - Substance Use: Remains entrenched in rural male populations (66.7% of cases)14.

Policy and Interventions

- Rural Focus: Training ASHA workers and integrating mental health Crisis into primary care are prioritized45. - Urban Initiatives: School-based programs and digital tools aim to address adolescent mental health5. While urban areas still report higher rates of certain disorders, rural India faces a growing mental health crisis fueled by systemic neglect and evolving socioeconomic pressures. Bridging this divide requires culturally tailored solutions, increased funding, and workforce expansion.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic specifically impacted mental health Crisis in the UK

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly exacerbated mental health challenges in the UK, with distinct demographic disparities and systemic pressures emerging. Below is a structured analysis based on government records and peer-reviewed studies:

Overall Impact

- 25% global increase in anxiety/depression during the pandemic’s first year (1), with UK trends mirroring this rise. - 1 in 6 UK adults experienced common mental health issues by 2021, while 1 in 5 adults avoided seeking support due to perceived inadequacy of their symptoms (46). - Mental health Crisis referrals remain 20% higher than pre-pandemic levels as of 2024 (3).

Key Statistics

- 88% of young people reported loneliness worsening their mental health during lockdowns (4). - 58% of benefit recipients experienced poor mental health, highlighting economic vulnerability (4). - 10% of the UK population reported suicidal thoughts in early 2020 (5). - 42,000 premature deaths occurred among people with severe mental illness in the first pandemic year (3).

Most Affected Groups

- Young Adults (18–29): - Highest rates of suicidal ideation, with rising trajectories observed across lockdown waves (25). - Disrupted education and socialization led to long-term psychological impacts (36). - Women: - Disproportionately affected by anxiety/depression compared to men (27). - Low-Income Households: - Economic hardship and unemployment were strongly linked to depression and anxiety (78). - People with Pre-Existing Conditions: - Those with severe mental illness faced 3–4× higher COVID-19 mortality risk due to comorbidities and systemic inequities (36).

Healthcare System Strain

- Mental health Crisis services shifted to remote delivery but faced unprecedented demand: - NHS mental health spending rose from £12B (2017) to £16.8B (2023/24) (3). - Community mental health teams reported staff burnout and resource shortages (6). Read the full article

[jeraldnepoleon]

Grapes Space Mission for Healthcare: Robospace | Jerald Nepoleon

Introduction

In an age where technology and healthcare intersect more profoundly than ever, the vision of space exploration finds its roots in addressing critical healthcare challenges on Earth. The Grapes Space Mission for Healthcare, aptly named Robospace, is an innovative initiative launched by Jerald Nepoleon, aimed at harnessing cutting-edge aerospace technology to revolutionize healthcare solutions. Through the integration of artificial intelligence, robotics, and space technology, Robospace seeks to create a healthier future for all.

Background of Grapes Innovative Solutions

Grapes Innovative Solutions is known for pushing the envelope in technology-driven solutions. With a vision cantered on improving healthcare outcomes through innovation, the company has embarked on this ambitious endeavour to utilize aerospace advancements in solving terrestrial health challenges. By leveraging the knowledge gained from space missions and applying them to healthcare, Grapes is set to redefine possibilities within the industry.

Mission Objectives

The core objectives of the Robospace mission encompass a multifaceted approach towards healing and health management. Here are the primary goals:

Enhancing Diagnostic Capabilities: Using AI and machine learning systems originated from aerospace technologies to develop advanced diagnostic tools that can identify diseases with incredible accuracy.

Telemedicine Innovation: Expanding telehealth services to ensure accessible healthcare, especially in remote and underserved regions, by employing space technology for communication.

Robotic Surgery and Assistance: Integrating robotics for surgical procedures to enhance precision and minimize recovery times, echoing methodologies used in space missions.

Health Monitoring Systems: Utilizing satellite technology to monitor vital health metrics in real-time, enabling proactive health management globally.

Research and Development: Fostering an environment for innovative R&D that bridges the gap between healthcare needs and technological advancements derived from space explorations.

The Need for Innovation in Healthcare

The healthcare industry is facing unprecedented challenges, including rising costs, access disparities, and a growing burden of chronic diseases. Current systems often struggle to provide timely and effective care, particularly in isolated areas. The application of aerospace technology within healthcare is not just innovative; it is essential for delivering prompt, efficient, and expansive healthcare solutions globally.

Health Disparities and Accessibility

Access to quality healthcare remains a significant challenge in many parts of the world. Remote areas often lack sufficient medical facilities, professionals, and equipment. The Robospace mission addresses this gap by deploying innovative solutions that transcend geographical barriers, ensuring that healthcare is not confined by location.

Innovations from Robospace

1. Smart Diagnostic Tools

Robospace has initiated the development of smart diagnostic tools that utilize machine learning algorithms designed to analyze vast amounts of data. These tools can assist healthcare providers in diagnostics, resulting in more accurate and timely treatment for patients. By incorporating satellite images and data patterns, diagnostic systems can identify potential health risks even before symptoms arise.

2. Advanced Telemedicine Platforms

As part of Robospace, Grapes aims to enhance telemedicine platforms by utilizing satellite technology to improve communication between healthcare providers and patients. This will enable real-time consultations and follow-ups, making healthcare accessible to the marginalized populations who may otherwise face barriers due to distance.

3. Robotics in Surgery

The Robospace mission harnesses robotic technology developed for use in space to enhance surgical procedures. These robotic systems can make highly precise incisions and perform complex surgeries with reduced trauma to surrounding tissues. This results in shorter recovery times and minimizes the risk of infection.

4. Continuous Health Monitoring

By integrating wearable technology with satellite capabilities, Robospace aims to develop comprehensive health monitoring systems that keep track of vital signs and health metrics in real-time. This constant data flow enables healthcare providers to respond swiftly to potential health crises before they escalate.

5. R&D Collaborations

Jerald Nepoleon emphasizes the importance of collaboration in his mission. Grapes aims to engage with academic institutions, healthcare professionals, and government agencies to create a robust research framework. This collaboration will foster the development of ground-breaking technologies that derive inspiration from space exploration.

Conclusion

The Grapes Space Mission for Healthcare stands as a beacon of hope in an otherwise besieged healthcare landscape. With the mission's emphasis on innovation, accessibility, and advanced technology, Robospace is poised to impact the global healthcare system positively. The visionary approach led by Jerald Nepoleon not only promises to transform traditional healthcare practices but also ensures that no one is left behind, regardless of their geographic location.

As the world continues to evolve, the crossover between space exploration and healthcare will only grow more interconnected, paving the way for future advancements that can address some of the most pressing issues facing humanity. The Robospace initiative exemplifies this synergy, serving not just a mission but a lifeline for countless individuals seeking better healthcare solutions.

For More Get InTouch : 

📧 Contact us: grapeshms@gmail.com / sales@grapeshms.com

📞 Call us: +91 7356 78 9993 , +91 8606 98 4841

🌐 Visit: Grapes Innovative Solutions

[livefitforever]

Heart Attacks in Women Are Different Attacks | livefitforever

Heart attacks in women, which are alternatively referred to as myocardial infarctions, happen when the normal blood circulation to the heart muscle gets obstructed, typically caused by the accumulation of plaque in the coronary arteries. This blockage can lead to damage or death of the heart muscle if not promptly addressed. While chest pain is a common symptom experienced by both men and women during a heart attack, women may also exhibit atypical or subtle symptoms that are not commonly associated with cardiac events in men.

[usnewsper-politics]

Georgia Governor Expands Healthcare for Low-Income Residents, Helping Rural Hospitals and Creating Jobs #economicgrowth #governmentfundedhealthcare #healthcaredisparities #healthcarereform #lowincomeresidents #Medicaidexpansion #publichealthinsurancecoverage #ruralhospitals #staterunprogram #uninsuredpatients #workforcedevelopment

[elitestarmedical]

All people, regardless of ethnicity or financial status, should have equitable access to healthcare, according to Elite-Star Medical Transport. We are dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to high-quality healthcare services, especially in underprivileged locations. Learn more @ https://shorturl.at/wWZ14

[mariebenz]

New Kidney Function Equation Works Independent of Sex and Race

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Prof. dr. Pottel Prof. dr. Hans Pottel KU Leuven Kulak Department of Public Health and Primary Care Belgium MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response:  The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is used to diagnose patients with chronic kidney disease and is also used to adjust the dose of drugs that are eliminated by the kidneys. An accurate estimation of GFR is considered of importance in the management of kidney health in patients. In 2021 we published a new serum creatinine based equation, called the European Kidney Function Consortium (EKFC) equation (Pottel H. et al, Development and Validation of a Modified Full Age Spectrum Creatinine-Based Equation to Estimate Glomerular Filtration Rate : A Cross-sectional Analysis of Pooled Data. Ann Intern Med (2021) 174: 183-191): EKFC-eGFR = 107.3 / a x With a = 0.322 if Biomarker/Q is less than 1, and a = 1.132 if Biomarker/Q is 1 or more. The equation can easily be interpreted: the leading coefficient equals the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 107.3 mL/min/1.73m², which is the average GFR in healthy children (aged > 2 years), adolescents and young adults. The average healthy GFR remains constant until the age of 40 years, and starts decreasing beyond that age. The GFR is inversely related to the ‘rescaled’ biomarker. The rescaling factor (Q) is the average biomarker value for healthy people of a specific population (e.g. children, adult men, adult women, white people, black people, …). Biomarker/Q equals ‘1’ for the average healthy person, corresponding with eGFR = 107.3 mL/min/1.73m² (up to 40 years of age). It should be noted that for serum creatinine, the Q-value depends on sex and race. Our hypothesis was that the above equation is valid for any renal biomarker, on the condition that the biomarker is appropriately scaled. We showed that the same equation was able to estimate GFR from 2 years to oldest ages. In the current study we tested and validated our hypothesis by applying the above formula for appropriately ‘rescaled’ cystatin C. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Is there a practical advantage to the Cystatin-C based equation over eGFR, especially since the sex and race of patients are known?  Response: The main finding is that the above equation indeed works very well for appropriately rescaled cystatin C, with a scaling factor Q independent of sex and race. Our cystatin C based EKFC-equation can thus be used in Black and White patients, men and women, and potentially in patients of mixed ethnicity, in transgender patients, etc. Moreover, the equation can easily be extended to children by defining the scaling factor Q (which will be done soon in future research). This will make the equation applicable for all ages, avoiding implausible jumps at the transition between pediatric nephrology care and adult nephrology care. MedicalResearch.com: Does this equation have a cost advantage/disadvantage? Response: Currently the cost for cystatin C is about 10 times the cost for serum creatinine. In many countries the cost for cystatin C is not reimbursed by the social security agency. We are convinced that the current study might be a game changer. MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add? Any disclosures? Response: There is a variety in the quality of assays used to measure creatinine and cystatin C. One important requirement of our study was that serum creatinine was obtained with assays that were calibrated directly to the gold standard Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry method. For cystatin C all assays were calibrated against the international certified IFCC standard. Therefore, the current equation is only valid for high quality measurements of the biomarkers. One other important remark is that we included data from Black people in Europe and Africa, but we did not have high quality measurements of the biomarkers for African Americans. Therefore, the performance of our new cystatin C based equation should still be demonstrated in African Americans. Citation: Cystatin C–Based Equation to Estimate GFR without the Inclusion of Race and Sex Hans Pottel, Ph.D., Jonas Björk, Ph.D., Andrew D. Rule, M.D., Natalie Ebert, M.D., M.P.H., Björn O. Eriksen, M.D., Ph.D., Laurence Dubourg, M.D., Ph.D., Emmanuelle Vidal-Petiot, M.D., Ph.D., Anders Grubb, M.D., Ph.D., Magnus Hansson, M.D., Ph.D., Edmund J. Lamb, Ph.D., Karin Littmann, M.D., Ph.D., Christophe Mariat, M.D., Ph.D., et al. N Engl J Med 2023; 388:333-343 DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2203769 January 26 2023 The information on MedicalResearch.com is provided for educational purposes only, and is in no way intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any medical or other condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health and ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. In addition to all other limitations and disclaimers in this agreement, service provider and its third party providers disclaim any liability or loss in connection with the content provided on this website. Read the full article

[danielivankovich]

TRANSFORMING LIVES: I’ve Devoted My Career To Leveling The Playing Field Such That ALL Americans Have Greater Access To Health Care . . I’m Particularly Proud Of How OnePatient-Global Health Initiative Has Improved The Musculoskeletal Health Of African Americans In Chicago #BlackHistoryMonth #HealthCareDisparities #Leadership (at Chicago, Illinois) https://www.instagram.com/p/Btpa7UrjRH2/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1lxg8vw312p7y

[cfri]

CYSTIC FIBROSIS VESTS WORLDWIDE – CHANGING LIVES, ONE VEST AT A TIME

CF Vests Worldwide is a non-profit organization that provides therapy vests, portable oxygen concentrators, and nebulizers to CF patients all over the world.

Their mission is accomplished through donations - either monetary or by way of donated medical equipment. To date, the organization has distributed 154 vests to people with CF in 40 countries.

https://www.cfvww.org

[surveycircle]

Tweeted

Participants needed for online survey! Topic: "Healthcare experiences of non-autistic and autistic adults" https://t.co/OqboJrJCvm via @SurveyCircle #HealthcareDisparity #UniversalDesign #neurodivergent #autistic #autism #survey #surveycircle https://t.co/9BjDjPK6hn

— Daily Research @SurveyCircle (@daily_research) Feb 5, 2023

[hugochamberblog]

How Switzerland delivered health care for all -- and kept its private insurance Since the pandemic began, more America... #hugochamber #2020election #americanhealthcare #bankruptcy #comparingu.s.healthcare #competitivehealthcaremarketplace #costofhealthcare #forprofithealthcare #healthcarearoundtheworld #healthcaredisparity #healthcareforall #healthcareinamerica #healthcareinequality #healthcaremarketplace #healthcareoutcomes #hospitalbill #medicaldebt #nhs #pbs #pbsnewshour #switzerland #switzerlandhealthcare #thebesthealthcare #uninsuredpeople #universalhealthcare Source: https://hugochamber.org/how-switzerland-delivered-health-care-for-all-and-kept-its-private-insurance/?feed_id=38671&_unique_id=5f6653e264780

[mariebenz]

Disparities Persist Between Kidney Transplantation and Dialysis Facility Ownership

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Patzer Rachel Patzer, PhD, MPH Associate Professor Director, Health Services Research Center Department of Medicine Department of Surgery Emory University School of Medicine   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: We know that historically, for-profit dialysis facilities have been shown to have lower rates of kidney transplantation than patients who receive treatment in non-profit dialysis facilities. However, these studies are outdated, and did not examine access to living donor transplantation or include the entirety of the end-stage kidney disease population  MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response: .  The main findings of our study are that over the 17-year study period, there was a consistent disparity by dialysis facility ownership with respect to access to the national waiting list, as well as deceased and living donor transplantation. MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report? Response: Despite studies that called attention to this issue several decades ago, it does not appear as though there has been any improvements in access to kidney transplantation among patients who receive dialysis in for-profit dialysis facilities.  MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this work? Response: We cannot say for certain whether the disparities we see are due to leadership or provider practices within the for-profit dialysis facilities and whether these facilities are educating or referring fewer patients for transplant, because these data are not available in national surveillance data.  Our research team is working to collect better day on these endpoints to study earlier steps in the transplant process.  MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add?  Response: It is important for patients with late-stage chronic kidney disease or those who are starting on dialysis to have conversations about kidney transplant as a treatment option with their clinical providers, such as their nephrologist or social worker. The providers in dialysis facilities – regardless of profit status – are required by law to educate patients about transplant as a treatment option. Ideally this should include a thorough discussion with a chance for patients to ask questions about the risks and benefits of treatment options, and the steps necessary to get a kidney transplant. If this does not occur, patients should advocate for themselves and ask questions about their potential candidacy for transplant.    Citation: Gander JC, Zhang X, Ross K, et al. Association Between Dialysis Facility Ownership and Access to Kidney Transplantation. JAMA. 2019;322(10):957–973. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.12803 Last Modified:   The information on MedicalResearch.com is provided for educational purposes only, and is in no way intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any medical or other condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health and ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. In addition to all other limitations and disclaimers in this agreement, service provider and its third party providers disclaim any liability or loss in connection with the content provided on this website.   Read the full article

[mariebenz]

Latinos, But Not African Americans, Report Less Discrimination in California Health Care

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Schulson Lucy Schulson, MD MPH Section of General Internal Medicine Boston University School of Medicine Boston, Massachusetts MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? Response: Research in the early 2000s in California demonstrated that racial and ethnic minorities, immigrants, and those with limited English proficiency (LEP) experienced high rates of discrimination in healthcare. Since those studies were published, California has made concerted efforts at the state and local level to address health equity; these efforts may have impacted perceptions of discrimination in health care. However, it is not known how perceptions of discrimination in healthcare have changed over the last ten years overall and for specific groups. This study sought to compare perceptions of discrimination in health care in 2003-2005 compared to 2015-2017 overall, for racial and ethnic minorities, among immigrants, and among those with Limited English Proficiency (LEP).  MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report? Response: Perceptions of discrimination in healthcare have decreased by about 50% overall when comparing more contemporary rates to 2003-2005 rates. However, this decrease was only significant among self-identified Latinos, immigrants, and those with LEP. Notably, African-Americans continue to perceive high rates of discrimination in healthcare-- about 1 in 10 (10%) reported recent discrimination in healthcare. MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this work? Response: Future studies need to examine why Latinos and immigrants have experienced a decrease in perceived discrimination in health care in California while African Americans have not. Additionally, it important to see if these trends continue into the future, particularly if the broader political context changes.   Finally, as health care discrimination is associated with poor health outcomes it is critical to continue to create interventions to address discrimination in health care.  Our findings differ from those of another study with a national patient sample that found that African American were reporting less discrimination, while Latinos were not.1   Our findings may be specific to California, which has undertaken specific steps to improve care for immigrants and for patients with limited English proficiency. We need more research to understand what has worked in California -- -and what still needs to be done. No disclosures. Nguyen TT, Vable AM, Glymour MM, Nuru-Jeter A. Trends for Reported Discrimination in Health Care in a National Sample of Older Adults with Chronic Conditions. J Gen Intern Med. 2018;33(3):291-297. doi:10.1007/s11606-017-4209-5 Citation: Schulson LB, Paasche-Orlow MK, Xuan Z, Fernandez A. Changes in Perceptions of Discrimination in Health Care in California, 2003 to 2017. JAMA Netw Open. Published online July 03, 20192(7):e196665. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.6665 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2737102    The information on MedicalResearch.com is provided for educational purposes only, and is in no way intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any medical or other condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health and ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. In addition to all other limitations and disclaimers in this agreement, service provider and its third party providers disclaim any liability or loss in connection with the content provided on this website.   Read the full article

[mariebenz]

Chronic Pain in Cancer Patients Varies by Income and Insurance Status

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Jiang Changchuan (Charles) Jiang MD, MPH MSSLW Internal Medicine Residency Program Class of 2020 Ichan School of Medicine at Mount Sinai MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Chronic pain is one of the common side effects of cancer treatments and it has been linked to low life quality, lower adherence to treatment, higher medical cost. As the population of cancer survivors grows rapidly, chronic pain will be a major public health issue in this population. We know from previous studies that chronic pain is common in certain cancers such as breast cancer. However, little was known about the epidemiology of chronic pain in the cancer survivors until our study. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response: My colleagues and I used the national representative survey "National Health Interview Survey" to identified 4526 adult cancer survivors from 59770 participants in 2016 and 2017. 1 in 3 cancer survivors (34.6%) were found to have chronic pain, representing 5.39 million patients in the United States. The prevalence of chronic pains varied significantly based on patients insurance status and income level. Nearly 1 in 2 cancer survivors had chronic pain when their household income is under the federal poverty level.   MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report? 1) 1 in 3 cancer survivors suffered from chronic pain, representing 5.39 million patients in the United States. 2) 1 in 6 cancer survivors were limited by chronic pain in life and work activities, representing 2.51 million patients. 3) the prevalence of chronic pain varied remarkably by income level and insurance status. there are significant unmet needs in the cancer survivors' pain management. MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this work? Response: Further research is needed to reveal the reason for insurance disparity in chronic pain management. It would also be interesting to explore why chronic pain was more prevalence in certain cancers. These would all contribute to the large unmet needs of pain management in cancer survivors.   Citation: Jiang C, Wang H, Wang Q, Luo Y, Sidlow R, Han X. Prevalence of Chronic Pain and High-Impact Chronic Pain in Cancer Survivors in the United States. JAMA Oncol. Published online June 20, 2019. doi:10.1001/jamaoncol.2019.1439   The information on MedicalResearch.com is provided for educational purposes only, and is in no way intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any medical or other condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health and ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. In addition to all other limitations and disclaimers in this agreement, service provider and its third party providers disclaim any liability or loss in connection with the content provided on this website.   Read the full article