J Natl Med Assoc
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National data indicate low intentions for COVID-19 vaccination among a substantial minority of Black Americans, and disproportionately lower vaccination rates among Black Americans than White Americans. ⋯ High mistrust around COVID-19 vaccines may lower vaccine confidence. Social network members' attitudes can be influential in encouraging vaccination. Public health communications could use transparent and clear messaging on safety and efficacy, and acknowledge historical and ongoing discrimination and racism as understandable reasons for low confidence in COVID-19 vaccines. Future research is needed to consider vaccine access challenges in tandem with mistrust as contributing to low vaccination rates across health conditions.
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The aims of this study were to understand the prevalence and sociodemographic characteristics associated with diabetes among adults in Namibia and South Africa. ⋯ Prevalence of diabetes is high in South Africa and relatively low in Namibia using reliable laboratory diagnostic indices. Strategies to address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases like diabetes are needed in sub-Saharan Africa.
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The field of dermatology is one of the least racially diverse specialties. We aimed to identify ways in which minorities become underrepresented within dermatology. ⋯ URM are taking out more loans, pursuing research fellowships more often than their White counterparts, publishing more, completing the same number of away rotations and interviews, yet have lower match rates leading to underrepresentation in the field. It is important to realize how Step scores might reflect and reproduce disparities between different racial/ethnic backgrounds, in turn influencing the racial composition of dermatology residency programs.
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Kikuchi-Fujimoto (KF) disease, also known as necrotizing histiocytic lymphadenitis, is a rare cause of fever of unknown origin. Most commonly seen in Japanese populations, it presents with fever and diffuse lymphadenopathy. KF can present a diagnostic challenge as its presentation can mimic sepsis, autoimmune disease, and/or malignancy. We present a case of KF disease presenting with innumerable pulmonary nodules and suspected sepsis. ⋯ Patients with innumerable pulmonary nodules and fever of unknown origin should be evaluated early in their hospital course for KF as early diagnosis can reduce excessive testing and shorten hospital stay.
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The goal of this study was to identify factors that influence the selection of Neurology as a career choice for Black medical students. ⋯ Neurological disorders are important contributors to morbidity and mortality. It is imperative that the field attract medical students toward careers in Neurology, particularly those students from traditionally and persistently underrepresented backgrounds. Our findings suggest that Black medical students consider Neurology as a specialty choice less frequently than their counterparts do, and this decision may be made prior to training. We conclude that a multifaceted approach is best to improve the racial/ethnic diversity within the neurological workforce, which should include targeted interventions prior to and after matriculation to medical school.