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• Indigenous heritage
• National origin
• Gender
SUMMARY
When compared to the general population, arthritis and depression in Hispanic and African American women represent
health disparities or preventable differences in health status. The physical limitations, pain, and comorbidities (obesity,
cardiovascular disease, diabetes) are more prevalent than would be expected based on statistical findings. This ‘disparity’
in health is described as a preventable difference. Social disadvantages associated with a lower social-economic status
contribute to disparity.
Recognizing the unique musculoskeletal comorbidities seen in African American and Hispanic populations, and taking steps
to accommodate cultural factors into patient care may improve their health. Screening for depression when joint pain and
physical impairment are evident has been
identified as key in addressing the spectrum of these comorbid conditions.
If the healthcare practitioner becomes culturally sensitive, aware of the spectrum and presentation of comorbidities for these
subpopulations, and better skilled at diagnosing depression, then patient care may improve. T
he healthcare practitioner can
positively impact the quality of care provided, thus alleviating or “preventing the difference” in health status noted in specific
subpopulations.