– Systemic racism in healthcare affecting Black lives
– Impact of systemic racism on Black health.
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As the world grapples with issues of racial inequality, a concerning trend has emerged in the field of medicine – the practice of adjusting medical tests based on a person’s race or ethnicity. This practice, known as “race-based medicine,” has raised significant questions about its validity and impact on patient care.
One such example of race-based medicine came to light when a UK-based study highlighted the use of race adjustments in routine kidney tests. These adjustments were based on the assumption that Black individuals have higher levels of creatinine in their blood, a waste product that indicates kidney function. However, the study found that these adjustments actually led to an overestimation of kidney health in Black patients, potentially delaying the diagnosis and treatment of kidney disease.
The Origins of Race Adjustment
The use of race adjustments in medical testing can be traced back to the development of equations to calculate estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a key indicator of kidney function. These equations, such as the MDRD and CKD-EPI equations, included specific multipliers for Black individuals based on assumptions about muscle mass and ethnicity.
However, the scientific rationale behind these adjustments has come under scrutiny. Studies have shown that the original basis for these adjustments, such as the MDRD study conducted in 1999, had limited sample sizes and questionable conclusions about the relationship between race, creatinine levels, and muscle mass.
The Impact on Black Patients
The use of race adjustments in eGFR calculations has had significant implications for Black patients, leading to delays in diagnosis, treatment, and access to specialized care. Studies have shown that Black individuals are more likely to develop end-stage kidney disease and face disparities in transplant waiting times due to the use of race adjustments in medical testing.
Furthermore, the reliance on race-based medicine has perpetuated inequalities in healthcare and hindered efforts to provide equitable care to all patients. By challenging the validity of race adjustments in medical testing, healthcare professionals can work towards eliminating racial bias and improving health outcomes for all individuals.
Moving Towards Equity
Recent efforts to address racial bias in medical testing have shown promise. Institutions in the US and UK have begun to reevaluate the use of race adjustments in eGFR calculations, with some organizations opting to remove these adjustments altogether. By acknowledging the limitations of race-based medicine and prioritizing evidence-based practices, healthcare providers can better serve diverse patient populations and promote health equity.
As we continue to confront issues of racial inequality in healthcare, it is essential to critically evaluate the use of race-based medicine and work towards implementing fair and unbiased medical practices. By prioritizing the health and well-being of all patients, we can create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system for everyone.
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– systemic racism in medicine putting Black people’s lives at risk
– systemic racism in medicine and Black people’s health risks.
