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Published on: May 10, 2019
The Imperative for Racial Equality in Pain Science: A Way Forward
Staja Q Booker1, Emily J Bartley2, Keesha Powell-Roach1
1College of Nursing, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence (PRICE), University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
Systemic racism impacts pain research and care, particularly for Black Americans. Innovative, equitable approaches are needed to address pain disparities and improve scientific validity.
Area of Science:
- Pain research
- Racial equity in science
- Biopsychosocial impacts of inequality
Background:
- Systemic racism and police brutality in 2020 highlighted the impact of injustice on Black Americans.
- These societal events can directly influence the lived experience and expression of pain in Black communities.
- Current research methods may limit the reliability and validity of scientific discovery regarding pain disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the impact of systemic racism on pain research and care.
- To propose equitable and innovative approaches to advance pain science.
- To improve the understanding and treatment of pain disparities for underrepresented groups.
Main Methods:
- This is a perspective article, not an empirical study.
- It involves reflection on current research practices in pain science.
- It calls for a critical examination of systemic discriminatory and biased practices.
Main Results:
- Traditional research methods may perpetuate inequities in pain science.
- Systemic discrimination limits the understanding of pain disparities.
- A shift towards equitable and innovative research is necessary.
Conclusions:
- Eliminating inequities in pain care and research requires addressing systemic bias.
- Investing in equitable approaches is crucial for advancing pain science.
- Improved research practices will benefit Black Americans and all underrepresented groups experiencing pain.
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