Despite growing evidence of their limitations, race-based practices in pediatric rheumatology—those that rely on race or ethnicity to influence diagnosis and treatment—continue to shape care, often reinforcing health disparities. The assumption that biologic or genetic differences exist between racial groups oversimplifies complex health issues and perpetuates health inequities. This article examines persistent race-based practices in pediatric rheumatology, particularly in the interpretation of laboratory results and clinical decision-making, and highlights their clinical limitations.
Authors:
Nayimisha Balmuri, Alisha Akinsete, Laura B. Lewandowski, Mallet Reid, Jordan E. Roberts, and Jennifer M. P. Woo
