Race-Based Medicine Is Racist

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Public Health Policy
• Sociology of Medicine

Background:

• Race is a social construct, not a biological determinant of health, making race-based medicine inherently racist.
• Historical racist laws and policies in the U.S. have perpetuated health inequities for people of color for centuries.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recognizes its historical role in perpetuating racism and commits to fostering health equity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically examine the concept of race-based medicine and its racist underpinnings.
• To advocate for a paradigm shift towards race-conscious medical practice.
• To highlight the role of social determinants of health in pediatric health inequities.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of historical medical practices and their connection to racist ideologies.
• Analysis of current health policies and their impact on child health equity.
• Examination of the American Academy of Pediatrics' (AAP) stance on race and equity.

Main Results:

• Race-based medicine is rooted in pseudoscientific justifications for slavery and systemic discrimination.
• Persistent myths about biological racial differences continue to influence medical practice and contribute to health disparities.
• Addressing social determinants of health is crucial for dismantling these inequities.

Conclusions:

• A transition to race-conscious medicine is essential for achieving health equity for all children.
• Pediatricians have a critical role in advocating for and implementing equitable healthcare practices.
• Recognizing and rectifying the historical and ongoing impact of racism in medicine is paramount for future generations.