The American Academy of Pediatrics Overhauls Race-Based Medical Guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is undertaking a significant overhaul of its outdated race-based medical guidelines, beginning with those concerning urinary tract infections (UTIs) and jaundice in infants. Founded in June 1930, the AAP’s earlier directives often relied on race to inform diagnosis and treatment for various infant health issues, which led to unequal care, especially for non-white infants.

Eliminating Race-Based Medicine

In a newly released policy statement titled “Eliminating Race-Based Medicine,” published in the journal Pediatrics, the AAP has committed to removing these outdated guidelines, emphasizing that race is a social construct and not a valid biological indicator. The statement further details that in addition to assessing social determinants of health, the impact of racism must be integrated into clinical decision-making. This is crucial to avoid conflating race with physical characteristics that have historically been misused to justify discrimination.

Addressing Misconceptions

For example, the AAP previously subscribed to the unfounded belief that Black infants were at a lower risk for UTIs, a notion rooted in long-standing prejudices rather than scientific evidence. Their recent review identified that the primary risk factors for UTIs are prior infections and prolonged fever, which are unrelated to race.

Future Directions

The organization aims to comprehensively review and update its entire body of guidelines, with plans to reassess those concerning newborn jaundice, which currently suggests that infants of East Asian descent are at greater risk. Joseph Wright, the chief health equity officer at the University of Maryland Medical System, noted the importance of accountability in evaluating disease risk and health outcomes.

Learn More

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Conclusion

In summary, the AAP is actively working to eliminate race-based medical guidelines that have historically led to disparities in infant care. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to addressing systemic inequities in health outcomes.

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