Actionable Solutions to Achieve Health Equity in Chronic Liver Disease

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Public Health
• Health Disparities Research

Background:

• Chronic liver diseases (CLD) exhibit significant racial and ethnic disparities in disease burden.
• Hispanic populations face the highest risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
• Hepatitis B disproportionately affects Asian and African descent populations, while Hepatitis C impacts American Indian and Alaskan Native populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current racial and ethnic disparities in CLD.
• To identify actionable strategies for improving equity in liver care.
• To highlight the importance of social determinants of health in liver disease outcomes.

Main Methods:

• High-level review of existing literature on CLD disparities.
• Analysis of disease burden and treatment access inequities.
• Exploration of the role of social determinants of health.

Main Results:

• Marked disparities exist in CLD prevalence and access to treatments, including liver transplantation.
• Gender and geographic factors also contribute to disparities, particularly in alcohol-related liver disease.
• Social determinants of health are critical drivers of observed health inequities.

Conclusions:

• Achieving health equity in liver care requires addressing the root causes of disparities.
• Collaborative efforts among patients, communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers are essential.
• Implementation of actionable strategies can bridge gaps and promote equitable liver care.