Genes, Culture, and Medicines: Bridging Gaps in Treatment for Hispanic Americans
Author: Carolina Reyes
Date Published: 2004
Hispanics are less likely to receive or use medications for asthma, cardiovascular disease, HIV/AIDS, mental illness, and pain, according to a new study. These disparities in pharmaceutical treatment are substantial and often persist even after adjustment for differences in income, age, insurance coverage, and coexisting medical conditions. This study brings together for the first time emerging research demonstrating that genetic and environmental factors have a significant impact on the effectiveness of medicines for Hispanic patients. It encourages physicians to tailor prescribing for Hispanics based on age, coexisting conditions, responsiveness to medications, and cultural perceptions of disease and treatment.
Date Published: 2004
Hispanics are less likely to receive or use medications for asthma, cardiovascular disease, HIV/AIDS, mental illness, and pain, according to a new study. These disparities in pharmaceutical treatment are substantial and often persist even after adjustment for differences in income, age, insurance coverage, and coexisting medical conditions. This study brings together for the first time emerging research demonstrating that genetic and environmental factors have a significant impact on the effectiveness of medicines for Hispanic patients. It encourages physicians to tailor prescribing for Hispanics based on age, coexisting conditions, responsiveness to medications, and cultural perceptions of disease and treatment.
