Biliary tract cancer (BTC) is on the rise globally, with Europe seeing its own unique patterns. Unlike some regions, Europe doesn't have a single dominant risk factor. Instead, it's a mix of conditions like primary sclerosing cholangitis, gallstones, and liver cirrhosis, though many cases pop up without any clear cause. What's alarming is that more young people under...
Breast cancer is a serious health issue worldwide, and genetic testing can play a big role in managing it. However, many people in middle-income countries do not have access to this important tool. This is a big problem because genetic testing can help doctors understand if a person has a higher risk of getting breast cancer. This knowledge can lead to better prevent...
Asthma is a common issue among kids, but diagnosing it can be challenging. One major hurdle is how doctors measure lung function. They often use a tool called the Global Lung Initiative (GLI) equation. This equation doesn't consider race, which can lead to problems. Recent studies have shown that when this race-neutral equation is used, it can make it seem like Blac...
Medical aid in dying, or MAID, is a significant topic in the United States. It's legal in many states, covering over one-fifth of the population. However, the majority of people who choose MAID are white and well-educated. This raises some important questions. Does everyone understand what MAID is? Do people's personal preferences align with how MAID is actually use...
Mental health and substance use disorders often go hand in hand, making treatment more complex. People dealing with both issues face a tough challenge, especially when services for both aren't easily available. A recent study looked into where these combined services are located and what might be stopping their spread. The study found that most of these inte...
In the United States, language barriers often stand in the way of quality healthcare for Spanish-speaking individuals. These patients, often classified as having Limited English Proficiency (LEP), face unique challenges. Despite the potential of digital health technologies to bridge these gaps, there's a noticeable divide. Spanish-speaking LEP individuals aren't usin...
Did you know that the Southeastern United States has some of the lowest kidney transplant rates in the country? It's true. And it's not just about numbers. There are big differences in who gets these life-saving procedures based on race and money. To tackle this, a study called RaDIANT was launched in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The goal? To make it ...
Imagine having major surgery. You might expect the best care to manage your pain afterward. But new research shows Black patients are less likely to get the top-notch treatment they deserve. Instead of using a combination of pain medicines that experts say work better and reduce the risk of addiction, many Black patients are just given opioid pills. This isn't fair, ...