A recent study reveals that a common blood test used to detect ovarian cancer may be less effective in Black and Native American patients, leading to delays in treatment. The disparities in healthcare access and outcomes for minority groups have been increasingly recognized, with researchers working to address biases in medical tests. The Trump administration’s crackdown on diversity initiatives has put such research at risk, as universities face political pressure and grant scrutiny.
The study, published in JAMA Network Open, examined the CA-125 blood test used to detect ovarian cancer markers. Black and Native American patients were found to be less likely to have elevated levels at diagnosis, indicating the current thresholds may be set too high for these populations. The researchers suggest a new lower threshold that could lead to better outcomes for all patients and reduce disparities in treatment and survival rates.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania propose adjusting the CA-125 test thresholds to ensure all patients receive timely care when ovarian cancer is suspected. The study analyzed data from over 200,000 women with ovarian cancer and found that minority patients experienced delays in starting chemotherapy compared to white patients with elevated CA-125 levels. By addressing the limitations of the test across different racial and ethnic groups, healthcare providers can improve early detection and treatment for all patients.
The findings highlight the need for personalized medicine approaches that consider race and ethnicity to address disparities in cancer care. By adjusting testing thresholds and guidelines, healthcare providers can ensure that all patients receive prompt and effective treatment for ovarian cancer, ultimately improving outcomes for Black and Native American patients who are disproportionately affected by the disease.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
