J Natl Med Assoc
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This study aims to describe the mammographic findings in a population of Nigerian women and to explore the relationships between abnormal mammographic findings, breast malignancy, and breast composition. ⋯ Poorly defined margins were positively correlated with BIRADS ratings suspicious for malignancy. The presence of a breast mass was positively correlated with a higher BIRADS score when other possible cofounding variables were not accounted for. Patient age did not correlate with breast density in this study.
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Outcome differences driven by variation in Blacks' biologic response to treatment may contribute to persistent racial disparities in asthma morbidity and mortality. This review assessed systematic variation in β2 agonist treatment outcomes among Blacks compared to other groups. ⋯ Evidence suggests the potential for differences in β2 agonist outcomes among Blacks compared with other groups. This literature, however, remains small and significantly underpowered for substantive conclusions. There are notable opportunities for adequately-powered investigations exploring safety and efficacy of β2 agonists among Blacks, including pharmacogenomic modifiers of response.
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Chronic pruritus dramatically disrupts quality of life, impairs sleep, and is difficult to treat. The pathogenesis and severity of chronic itch can vary significantly with race. Black skin has inherent structural and molecular characteristics that exacerbates pruritus, leading to unique presentations of pruritic conditions and added challenges in finding effective therapies. The aim of this review is to discuss structural variances in black skin, the subsequent epidemiological disparities in chronic pruritic conditions, and clinical management pearls for the management of itch in black patients. ⋯ Pruritus and chronic pruritus disorders disproportionately affects black patients. Management of pruritus of special importance in black patients includes low pH skin care products to protect the skin barrier along with emollients to diminish trans-epidermal water loss. Further mechanistic studies are needed to characterize racial differences in biomarkers and therapeutic targets of chronic itch.