Orthopaedic Diagnoses in the Black Pediatric Population

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Orthopaedics
• Health Disparities
• Racial Equity in Healthcare

Background:

• The Black pediatric population experiences significant unmet needs in orthopaedic care.
• Historical underrepresentation in research and biased standards (e.g., bone age) can lead to suboptimal treatment.
• Certain orthopaedic conditions and systemic diseases with orthopaedic implications occur at higher rates in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight specific orthopaedic conditions requiring higher suspicion in Black children.
• To underscore the orthopaedic manifestations of systemic diseases prevalent in this population.
• To emphasize the need for increased awareness and equitable care practices.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on pediatric orthopaedics and health disparities.
• Identification of specific conditions and diseases with racial disparities in incidence or presentation.
• Analysis of factors contributing to potential inequities in care.

Main Results:

• Conditions like slipped capital femoral epiphysis, Blount disease, and postaxial polydactyly warrant increased vigilance.
• Systemic diseases such as sickle cell disease, vitamin D deficiency, and obesity have significant orthopaedic consequences.
• Racial disparities impact prenatal care access, leading to conditions like cerebral palsy and myelodysplasia, and affect trauma evaluation.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced awareness of these issues is essential for orthopaedic surgeons.
• Addressing racial discrepancies in care is critical for improving outcomes in Black pediatric patients.
• Promoting equitable practices ensures better orthopaedic health for underserved populations.