Antiracism in the Field of Neonatology: A Foundation and Concrete Approaches

Area of Science:

• Neonatal medicine
• Health equity research
• Social determinants of health

Background:

• Historically marginalized communities face unequal healthcare access and outcomes.
• Race and ethnicity are critical factors in understanding health disparities.
• Racism, at multiple levels, significantly impacts newborn health in the NICU.

Purpose of the Study:

• To educate neonatal clinicians on race, racism, and antiracism in medicine.
• To provide actionable strategies for promoting antiracism and health equity in neonatology.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on race, racism, and health equity in neonatology.
• Analysis of how different forms of racism affect neonatal health outcomes.
• Development of practical recommendations for healthcare professionals.

Main Results:

• Understanding race and racism is crucial for addressing health inequities.
• The NICU is a key setting for implementing antiracist interventions.
• Clinicians can actively contribute to health equity through specific actions.

Conclusions:

• Antiracism efforts in neonatology are essential for improving health outcomes.
• Addressing structural and interpersonal racism can reduce health disparities.
• Neonatal clinicians play a vital role in achieving health equity for all infants.