Addressing Disparities in African American and Asian Populations
We have recently examined racial disparities in the management of ion channelopathies and SCD in ethnically diverse populations.2, 3 In one of these studies, Chahine et al. reported that AA/Black subjects were notably underrepresented in clinical trials on ion channelopathies and SCD.3 We highlighted limited genetic testing and the underuse of medical devices in managing these patients and proposed solutions to address these disparities, including early identification of genetic variants, diverse inclusion in trials, and tailored preventive management.3 A study by Zhao et al. found that socioeconomic and cardiovascular risk factors lead to approximately 65% excess SCD risk in AA/Black populations.4 The solutions proposed involve compliance with medical guidelines, facilitating referrals to cardiologists, and investing in the training and mentorship of underrepresented junior faculty in cardiovascular research to address the disparities in treating these patients.
A subsequent review by Zaveri et al. examined the racial and ethnic differences of Asian populations with ion channelopathies and SCD by compiling current research on cardiac ion channelopathies and genetic disorders.2 This study details the evolving understanding of SCD while examining differences in research, treatment, and outcomes between Asian and White populations, with an emphasis on Asian patients’ phenotypic abnormalities, device usage, and mortality risk. The review delves into the specific differences in SCD genetic risk factors in Asian populations compared to White populations.2 Similar to the study conducted by Chahine et al., Zaveri et al. proposed solutions such as early genetic screening, addressing barriers to medical care and device utilization, improving physician training, and enhancing patient education on risk factors.2, 3