Black students in Ohio are disproportionately suspended for disobedience and disruption, with subjective terms like disrespect and insubordination leading to selective punishment. Racial and cultural differences between educators and students, as well as bias, contribute to these disparities. Toledo's public schools, under federal monitoring, are working to address the root causes of the disparity through culturally responsive training, mental health support, and social-emotional wellness teams. Teacher experience and training are key to preventing suspensions, as less-experienced teachers and subjective disciplinary decisions contribute to racial gaps. Researchers argue that more support for teachers and alternatives to suspensions could reduce racial inequities and improve academic outcomes for students.
CNN anchor Sara Sidner revealed her stage III breast cancer diagnosis, highlighting the striking racial disparity in breast cancer mortality rates, with Black women being 41% more likely to die from the disease than their White counterparts. Experts attribute this to a combination of biological and socioeconomic factors resulting from structural racism. Recent studies suggest that earlier breast cancer screening for Black women may be beneficial, and the US Preventive Services Task Force has proposed updating its recommendations to start screening at age 40 for all women at average risk. Additionally, data shows that annual breast cancer screening may lower the risk of all-cause mortality after a diagnosis. Experts advise women to be aware of their family history, consider genetic screening, and undergo regular mammograms, especially by age 45.
Sapelo Island, one of America's last intact Gullah Geechee communities, is at risk due to revamped zoning laws that allow for larger homes, potentially leading to million-dollar properties and higher property taxes. This could price out current homeowners and threaten the cultural heritage of the community. The situation is seen as a battle of rich versus poor, with racial disparity playing a role as well. The descendants of the community are concerned about the future of their historic enclave.
St. Louis has the highest rate of Alzheimer's dementia cases in Missouri, with 13% of residents 65 and older affected. A new study from Washington University's School of Medicine reveals that social factors such as income, race, and education impact access to treatment and diagnosis. Patients in less affluent neighborhoods and people of color are less likely to receive care from the memory clinic. Racial disparities in Alzheimer's risk have also been observed, with Black Americans facing double the risk compared to white Americans. Stigma, distrust of the medical community, and social determinants of health contribute to these disparities. Early diagnosis is crucial as new drugs are approved, but patients from marginalized communities often arrive at memory clinics with more advanced dementia, reducing the effectiveness of treatment. Multiple approaches, including community education and policy changes, are needed to address these disparities.
Olympic medalist Tori Bowie died in childbirth due to possible complications including respiratory distress and eclampsia, drawing attention to the maternal mortality crisis in the US. Black women are at least three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than White women. Serious and potentially life-threatening complications in labor include eclampsia, heart complications, and postpartum hemorrhage. Racial disparity in maternal mortality is a major challenge in public health, with poverty, discrimination, and poor care being contributing factors. Maternal deaths in the US increased 40% in 2021, marking a six-decade high, with risks greater for unvaccinated women.
