1
|
Viswanathan VS, Parmar V, Madabhushi A. Towards equitable AI in oncology. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024:10.1038/s41571-024-00909-8. [PMID: 38849530 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-024-00909-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) stands at the threshold of revolutionizing clinical oncology, with considerable potential to improve early cancer detection and risk assessment, and to enable more accurate personalized treatment recommendations. However, a notable imbalance exists in the distribution of the benefits of AI, which disproportionately favour those living in specific geographical locations and in specific populations. In this Perspective, we discuss the need to foster the development of equitable AI tools that are both accurate in and accessible to a diverse range of patient populations, including those in low-income to middle-income countries. We also discuss some of the challenges and potential solutions in attaining equitable AI, including addressing the historically limited representation of diverse populations in existing clinical datasets and the use of inadequate clinical validation methods. Additionally, we focus on extant sources of inequity including the type of model approach (such as deep learning, and feature engineering-based methods), the implications of dataset curation strategies, the need for rigorous validation across a variety of populations and settings, and the risk of introducing contextual bias that comes with developing tools predominantly in high-income countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Vani Parmar
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India, Mumbai, India
| | - Anant Madabhushi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Atlanta Veterans Administration Medical Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kaur R, Schick-Makaroff K, Dang P, Sasaki A, Neves P, Mucsi I, Gill J. Navigating Living Kidney Donation and Transplantation Among South Asian Canadians: The ACTION Project. Am J Kidney Dis 2024; 83:750-761.e1. [PMID: 38242424 DOI: 10.1053/j.ajkd.2023.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE & OBJECTIVE South Asian (SA) Canadians with kidney failure have a 50%-77% lower likelihood of kidney transplant and are less likely to identify potential living donors (LDs). This study aimed to identify health system-, patient-, and community-level barriers and facilitators for accessing LD kidney transplantation in the SA community to inform the development of health system- and community-level interventions to address barriers. STUDY DESIGN Qualitative study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS 20 SA recipients of an LD or deceased-donor kidney transplant, 10 SA LDs, and 41 general SA community members. ANALYTICAL APPROACH In-depth multilingual interviews were conducted with recipients and LDs. Gender-, language-, and age-stratified focus groups were conducted with general SA community members. Summative content analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS Hesitancy in approaching potential donors, fear about the health of potential LDs, information gaps, language barriers, and challenges evaluating out-of-country donors were highlighted as significant barriers by recipients, and financial concerns and information gaps were identified by donors. Cultural barriers in the SA community were highlighted by donors, recipients, and community members as critical factors when considering donation and transplant; women and elderly SA Canadians highlighted nuanced challenges. Participants reported generally a favorable perception of their health care teams, citing SA representation in the teams as important to providing culturally and linguistically sensitive care. LIMITATIONS Limited geographic, race, and cultural representation and reliance on virtual data collection. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights several culturally relevant barriers to donation and transplant that are potentially modifiable through patient-, health system-, and community-focused engagement and education.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reetinder Kaur
- Providence Health Care Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Phuc Dang
- Providence Health Care Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ayumi Sasaki
- Providence Health Care Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Paula Neves
- Centre for Living Organ Donation, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Istvan Mucsi
- Ajmera Transplant Center, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Division of Nephrology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jagbir Gill
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, and Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcomes Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lui E, Gill J, Hamid M, Wen C, Singh N, Okoh P, Xu X, Boakye P, James CE, Waterman AD, Edwards B, Mucsi I. Racialized and Immigrant Status and the Pursuit of Living Donor Kidney Transplant - a Canadian Cohort Study. Kidney Int Rep 2024; 9:960-972. [PMID: 38765593 PMCID: PMC11101831 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2024.01.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Both immigrant and racialized status may be associated with the pursuit of living donor kidney transplant (LDKT). Methods This study was a secondary analysis of a convenience cross-sectional sample of patients with kidney failure in Toronto, obtained from our "Comprehensive Psychosocial Research Data System" research database. The exposures included racialized, immigrant, and combined immigrant and racialized status (White nonimmigrant, racialized nonimmigrant, White immigrant and racialized immigrant). Outcomes include the following: (i) having spoken about LDKT with others, (ii) having a potential living donor (LD) identified, (iii) having allowed others to share the need for LDKT, (iv) having directly asked a potential donor to be tested, and (v) accept a hypothetical LDKT offer. We assessed the association between exposure and outcomes using univariable, and multivariable binary or multinominal logistic regression (reference: White or White nonimmigrant participants). Results Of the 498 participants, 281 (56%) were immigrants; 142 (28%) were African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB); 123 (25%) were Asian; and 233 (47%) were White. Compared to White nonimmigrants, racialized immigrants (relative risk ratio [RRR]: 2.98; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.76-5.03) and racialized nonimmigrants (RRR: 2.84; 95% CI: 1.22-6.65) were more likely not to have spoken about LDKT with others (vs. having spoken or planning to do so). Both racialized immigrant (odds ratio [OR]: 4.07; 95% CI: 2.50-6.34), racialized nonimmigrants (OR: 2.68; 95% CI: 1.31-5.51) and White immigrants (OR: 2.68; 95% CI: 1.43-5.05) were more likely not to have a potential LD identified. Conclusion Both racialized and immigrant status are associated with less readiness to pursue LDKT. Supporting patients to communicate their need for LDKT may improve equitable access to LDKT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Lui
- Ajmera Transplant Center and Division of Nephrology Department, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jasleen Gill
- Ajmera Transplant Center and Division of Nephrology Department, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marzan Hamid
- Ajmera Transplant Center and Division of Nephrology Department, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Cindy Wen
- Ajmera Transplant Center and Division of Nephrology Department, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Navneet Singh
- Ajmera Transplant Center and Division of Nephrology Department, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Princess Okoh
- Ajmera Transplant Center and Division of Nephrology Department, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Xihui Xu
- Ajmera Transplant Center and Division of Nephrology Department, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Priscilla Boakye
- Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carl E. James
- Faculty of Education, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy D. Waterman
- Department of Surgery and J.C. Walter Jr. Transplant Center, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Beth Edwards
- Ajmera Transplant Center and Division of Nephrology Department, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Istvan Mucsi
- Ajmera Transplant Center and Division of Nephrology Department, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
El-Khoury B, Yang TC. Reviewing Racial Disparities in Living Donor Kidney Transplantation: a Socioecological Approach. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024; 11:928-937. [PMID: 36991297 PMCID: PMC10057682 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01573-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Despite kidney transplantation having superior outcomes to dialytic therapies, disparities continue to exist among rates of kidney transplantation between Black and non-Hispanic White patients, which cannot be explained by differences in individual characteristics. To better evaluate the persistent Black/White disparities in living kidney transplantation, we review the extant literature and include the critical factors and recent development in living kidney transplantation in the socioecological approach. We also emphasize the potential vertical and hierarchical associations among factors in the socioecological model. Specifically, this review explores the possibility that the relatively low living kidney transplantation among Blacks may be a consequence of individual, interpersonal, and structural inequalities in various social and cultural dimensions. At the individual level, the Black/White differences in socioeconomic conditions and transplant knowledge may account for the low transplantation rates among Blacks. Interpersonally, the relatively weak social support and poor communication between Black patients and their providers may contribute to disparities. At the structural level, the race-based glomerular filtration rate (GFR) calculation that is widely used to screen Black donors is a barrier to receiving living kidney transplantation. This factor is directly related to structural racism in the health care system but its potential impact on living donor transplantation is underexplored. Finally, this literature review emphasizes the current perspective that a race-free GFR should be considered and a multidisciplinary and interprofessional perspective is necessary to devise strategies and interventions to reduce the Black/White disparities in living donor kidney transplantation in the U.S.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bashir El-Khoury
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA.
- Civilian Institution Programs, Air Force Institute of Technology, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH, USA.
| | - Tse-Chuan Yang
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA
- Department of Sociology, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Spencer A, Lavenburg LM, Sanders AP, Shah AD. Clearing the air: a review of the effects of air pollution on dialysis outcomes. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 2024; 33:192-202. [PMID: 38205827 PMCID: PMC10805370 DOI: 10.1097/mnh.0000000000000968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW An evolving body of literature indicates exposure to air pollutants is associated with adverse health outcomes in dialysis patients. As the prevalence of kidney disease increases, understanding the role of environmental agents on the health of dialysis patients is critical to reducing global morbidity and mortality. RECENT FINDINGS We identified 16 publications that investigated associations between pollutants including particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10 ), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ), and ozone (O 3 ) and health outcomes among dialysis patients. Eight studies examined the effects of particulate matter (PM) and four studies examined the effects CO exposure on dialysis patients. Exposure to PM was consistently associated with outcomes including all-cause mortality and a smaller body of literature suggested relationships with subclinical outcomes. Exposure to CO was associated with all-cause mortality, generalized inflammation, and uremic pruritus. An additional four studies examined multiple pollutant exposures including NO 2 , SO 2 , and O 3 and reported associations with all-cause mortality in dialysis patients. SUMMARY This review emphasized the nascent literature that demonstrates consistent relationships between air pollutant exposure and adverse outcomes among dialysis patients. Further research is needed to assess the impact of air pollutants, including how co-exposures will impact dialysis patient health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annika Spencer
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health
| | - Linda-Marie Lavenburg
- Renal-Electrolyte Division, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Alison P Sanders
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health
| | - Ankur D Shah
- Division of Kidney Disease and Hypertension, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hoffman AL, Westphal SG, Wekesa D, Miles CD. Impact of OPTN policy 3.7D providing waiting time modification for candidates affected by race-inclusive eGFR calculations: Early results from a single center. Clin Transplant 2024; 38:e15273. [PMID: 38516921 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.15273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION OPTN Policy 3.7D, implemented January 5, 2023, mandates that all kidney transplant programs modify waiting time for candidates affected by race-inclusive eGFR calculations. We report the early impact of this policy change. METHODS Our transplant program reviewed all listed transplant candidates and identified patients potentially eligible for waiting time modification. Eligible candidates received waiting time modification after submission of supporting evidence to the OPTN. We reviewed the impact on waiting time and transplant activity through October 1, 2023. RESULTS Forty-six adult patients on our center's active waiting list self-identified as Black/African American. 25 (54.3%) candidates qualified for waiting time modification. A median 451 (321, 1543.5) additional days of waiting time was added for qualifying patients. Of the 25 patients who qualified for waiting time modification, 11 patients received a deceased donor kidney in the early period following waiting time modification, including 5 patients transplanted within 1 month after modification. CONCLUSIONS Policy 3.7D is one of few national mandates to address specifically structural racism within transplantation. Implementation has yielded near immediate effects with greater than 40% of time-adjusted patients at our center receiving a deceased donor kidney transplant in the initial months after policy enactment. Early assessment demonstrates great potential impact for this policy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arika L Hoffman
- Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Scott G Westphal
- Nebraska Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Debra Wekesa
- Nebraska Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Clifford D Miles
- Nebraska Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hurst DJ, Cooper DKC. Pressing ethical issues relating to clinical pig organ transplantation studies. Xenotransplantation 2024; 31:e12848. [PMID: 38407936 DOI: 10.1111/xen.12848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Clinical pig heart transplant experiments have been undertaken, and further clinical experiments and/or clinical trials of gene-edited pig organ xenotransplantation are anticipated. The ethical issues relating to xenotransplantation have been discussed for decades but with little resolution. Consideration of certain ethical issues is more urgent than others, and the need to attain consensus is important. These issues include: (i) patient selection criteria for expanded access and/or clinical trials; (ii) appropriate protection of the patient from xenozoonoses, that is, infections caused by pig microorganisms transferred with the organ graft, (iii) minimization of the risk of a xenozoonosis to bystanders, and (iv) the need for additional public perception studies. We discuss why it is important and urgent to achieve consensus on these ethical issues prior to carrying out further expanded access experiments or initiating formal clinical trials. The ways forward on each issue are proposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Hurst
- Department of Family Medicine, Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | - David K C Cooper
- Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ng MY, Youssef A, Miner AS, Sarellano D, Long J, Larson DB, Hernandez-Boussard T, Langlotz CP. Perceptions of Data Set Experts on Important Characteristics of Health Data Sets Ready for Machine Learning: A Qualitative Study. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2345892. [PMID: 38039004 PMCID: PMC10692863 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.45892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance The lack of data quality frameworks to guide the development of artificial intelligence (AI)-ready data sets limits their usefulness for machine learning (ML) research in health care and hinders the diagnostic excellence of developed clinical AI applications for patient care. Objective To discern what constitutes high-quality and useful data sets for health and biomedical ML research purposes according to subject matter experts. Design, Setting, and Participants This qualitative study interviewed data set experts, particularly those who are creators and ML researchers. Semistructured interviews were conducted in English and remotely through a secure video conferencing platform between August 23, 2022, and January 5, 2023. A total of 93 experts were invited to participate. Twenty experts were enrolled and interviewed. Using purposive sampling, experts were affiliated with a diverse representation of 16 health data sets/databases across organizational sectors. Content analysis was used to evaluate survey information and thematic analysis was used to analyze interview data. Main Outcomes and Measures Data set experts' perceptions on what makes data sets AI ready. Results Participants included 20 data set experts (11 [55%] men; mean [SD] age, 42 [11] years), of whom all were health data set creators, and 18 of the 20 were also ML researchers. Themes (3 main and 11 subthemes) were identified and integrated into an AI-readiness framework to show their association within the health data ecosystem. Participants partially determined the AI readiness of data sets using priority appraisal elements of accuracy, completeness, consistency, and fitness. Ethical acquisition and societal impact emerged as appraisal considerations in that participant samples have not been described to date in prior data quality frameworks. Factors that drive creation of high-quality health data sets and mitigate risks associated with data reuse in ML research were also relevant to AI readiness. The state of data availability, data quality standards, documentation, team science, and incentivization were associated with elements of AI readiness and the overall perception of data set usefulness. Conclusions and Relevance In this qualitative study of data set experts, participants contributed to the development of a grounded framework for AI data set quality. Data set AI readiness required the concerted appraisal of many elements and the balancing of transparency and ethical reflection against pragmatic constraints. The movement toward more reliable, relevant, and ethical AI and ML applications for patient care will inevitably require strategic updates to data set creation practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madelena Y. Ng
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics), Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Alaa Youssef
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Adam S. Miner
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Daniela Sarellano
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Jin Long
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - David B. Larson
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Tina Hernandez-Boussard
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics), Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Curtis P. Langlotz
- Department of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics), Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Pavlakis M. A Restorative Justice Project in Kidney Allocation-The Wait Time Modification for Black and African American Candidates Affected by the Race-Based eGFR Equation. J Am Soc Nephrol 2023; 34:1618-1620. [PMID: 37488677 PMCID: PMC10561813 DOI: 10.1681/asn.0000000000000198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Martha Pavlakis
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center , Harvard Medical School , Boston , Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Williams P. Retaining Race in Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosis and Treatment. Cureus 2023; 15:e45054. [PMID: 37701164 PMCID: PMC10495104 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The best overall measure of kidney function is glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as commonly estimated from serum creatinine concentrations (eGFRcr) using formulas that correct for the higher average creatinine concentrations in Blacks. After two decades of use, these formulas have come under scrutiny for estimating GFR differently in Blacks and non-Blacks. Discussions of whether to include race (Black vs. non-Black) in the calculation of eGFRcr fail to acknowledge that the original race-based eGFRcr provided the same CKD treatment recommendations for Blacks and non-Blacks based on directly (exogenously) measured GFR. Nevertheless, the National Kidney Foundation and the American Society of Nephrology Task Force on Reassessing the Inclusion of Race in Diagnosing Kidney Disease removed race in CKD treatment guidelines and pushed for the immediate adoption of a race-free eGFRcr formula by physicians and clinical laboratories. This formula is projected to negate CKD in 5.51 million White and other non-Black adults and reclassify CKD to less severe stages in another 4.59 million non-Blacks, in order to expand treatment eligibility to 434,000 Blacks not previously diagnosed and to 584,000 Blacks previously diagnosed with less severe CKD. This review examines: 1) the validity of the arguments for removing the original race correction, and 2) the performance of the proposed replacement formula. Excluding race in the derivation of eGFRcr changed the statistical bias from +3.7 to -3.6 ml/min/1.73m2 in Blacks and from +0.5 to +3.9 in non-Blacks, i.e., promoting CKD diagnosis in Blacks at the cost of restricting diagnosis in non-Blacks. By doing so, the revised eGFRcr greatly exaggerates the purported racial disparity in CKD burden. Claims that the revised formulas identify heretofore undiagnosed CKD in Blacks are not supported when studies that used kidney failure replacement therapy and mortality are interpreted as proxies for baseline CKD. Alternatively, a race-stratified eGFRcr (i.e., separate equations for Blacks and non-Blacks) would provide the least biased eGFRcr for both Blacks and non-Blacks and the best medical treatment for all patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Williams
- Life Sciences, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Devraj R. Pharmacists role in techquity. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2023; 63:703-705. [PMID: 37208118 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
|
12
|
Al Jurdi A, Safa K. Impact of the New Glomerular Filtration Rate Formulas on Kidney Function Assessment in Living Kidney Donors and Candidates. Transplant Direct 2023; 9:e1460. [PMID: 36935869 PMCID: PMC10019160 DOI: 10.1097/txd.0000000000001460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
New estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) equations that do not include a race coefficient have been created to better estimate kidney function, reduce inequities in kidney disease care, and improve the historically limited access to transplantation in African Americans. The impact of these new equations on estimated GFR (eGFR) in living donors pre- and postdonation is not known. Methods To address this, we conducted a single-center retrospective cohort study of 150 kidney donors and donor candidates. We calculated pre- and postdonation eGFR using the old and new equations and compared them with measured GFR by 2.8 mCi Tc-99m diethylene triamine penta-acetic acid clearance (mGFRDTPA) and 24-h creatinine clearance (mGFRCrCl). We evaluated the impact of the new equations on donation eligibility and postdonation eGFR. Results We found that using the new eGFR equations resulted in higher predonation eGFR compared with the old equations but remained significantly lower than mGFRDTPA and mGFRCrCl. We also found that using the new eGFR equations would not exclude any potential donors based on our center's GFR criteria for donation. At 6 mo postdonation, the new equations resulted in higher eGFR values compared with the old equations. Conclusions The new eGFR equations continue to underestimate GFR in healthy donor candidates but would not exclude any potential donors from donation and resulted in higher eGFR predonation and postdonation in a predominantly White population. eGFR equations designed specifically for potential kidney donors are still needed for better kidney function assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Al Jurdi
- Division of Nephrology, Transplant Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Kassem Safa
- Division of Nephrology, Transplant Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Butler T, Cummings LS, Purnell TS. The Case for Prioritizing Diversity in the Transplantation Workforce to Advance Kidney Health Equity. J Am Soc Nephrol 2022; 33:1817-1819. [PMID: 35918144 PMCID: PMC9528324 DOI: 10.1681/asn.2022040429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Butler
- Division of Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Surgery, Crozer-Chester Medical Center, Upland, Pennsylvania
| | - Lee S. Cummings
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, Missouri
| | - Tanjala S. Purnell
- Departments of Epidemiology and Surgery/Transplantation, Johns Hopkins Schools of Public Health and Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hassan MO, Balogun RA. The Effects of Race on Acute Kidney Injury. J Clin Med 2022; 11:5822. [PMID: 36233687 PMCID: PMC9573379 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11195822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Racial disparities in incidence and outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) are pervasive and are driven in part by social inequities and other factors. It is well-documented that Black patients face higher risk of AKI and seemingly have a survival advantage compared to White counterparts. Various explanations have been advanced and suggested to account for this, including differences in susceptibility to kidney injury, severity of illness, and socioeconomic factors. In this review, we try to understand and further explore the link between race and AKI using the incidence, diagnosis, and management of AKI to illustrate how race is directly related to AKI outcomes, with a focus on Black and White individuals with AKI. In particular, we explore the effect of race-adjusted estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) equation on AKI prediction and discuss racial disparities in the management of AKI and how this might contribute to racial differences in AKI-related mortality among Blacks with AKI. We also identify some opportunities for future research and advocacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muzamil Olamide Hassan
- Department of Medicine, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife 220005, Nigeria
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Rasheed Abiodun Balogun
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Panchal S, Serper M, Bittermann T, Asrani SK, Goldberg DS, Mahmud N. Impact of Race-Adjusted Glomerular Filtration Rate Estimation on Eligibility for Simultaneous Liver-Kidney Transplantation. Liver Transpl 2022; 28:959-968. [PMID: 34558791 PMCID: PMC8943444 DOI: 10.1002/lt.26310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is adjusted for Black race in commonly used formulas. This has potential implications for access to simultaneous liver-kidney transplantation (SLKT) as qualifying criteria rely on eGFR. We performed a retrospective study of United Network for Organ Sharing national transplant registry data between February 28, 2002, and March 31, 2019, to evaluate the proportion of Black patients who would be reclassified as meeting SLKT criteria (as defined per current policies) if race adjustment were removed from 2 prominent eGFR equations (Modification of Diet in Renal Disease-4 [MDRD-4] and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration [CKD-EPI]). Of the 7937 Black patients listed for transplant during the study period, we found that 3.6% would have been reclassified as qualifying for chronic kidney disease (CKD)-related SLKT with removal of race adjustment for MDRD-4, and 3.0% would have been reclassified with CKD-EPI; this represented 23.7% and 18.7% increases in SLKT candidacy, respectively. Reclassification impacted women more than men (eg, 4.5% versus 3.0% by MDRD-4; P < 0.05). In an exploratory analysis, patients meeting SLKT criteria by race-unadjusted eGFR equations were significantly more likely to receive liver transplantation alone (LTA) compared with SLKT. Approximately 2.0% of reclassified patients required kidney transplantation within 1 year of LTA versus 0.3% of nonreclassified patients. In conclusion, race adjustment in eGFR equations may impact SLKT candidacy for 3.0% to 4.0% of Black patients listed for LTA overall. Approximately 2.0% of patients reclassified as meeting SLKT criteria require short-term post-LTA kidney transplantation. These data argue for developing novel algorithms for glomerular filtration rate estimation free of race to promote equity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarjukumar Panchal
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Marina Serper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Department of Medicine, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Therese Bittermann
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Sumeet K. Asrani
- Baylor University Medical Center, Baylor Scott and White, Dallas, Texas
| | - David S. Goldberg
- Division of Digestive Health and Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
| | - Nadim Mahmud
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Department of Medicine, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA,Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA,Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology & Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Helling TS. Addressing Socioeconomic Inequities in Kidney Transplantation for Black Recipients. JAMA Surg 2022; 157:e221295. [PMID: 35507382 DOI: 10.1001/jamasurg.2022.1295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas S Helling
- Department of Surgery, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Eneanya ND, Boulware LE, Tsai J, Bruce MA, Ford CL, Harris C, Morales LS, Ryan MJ, Reese PP, Thorpe RJ, Morse M, Walker V, Arogundade FA, Lopes AA, Norris KC. Health inequities and the inappropriate use of race in nephrology. Nat Rev Nephrol 2022; 18:84-94. [PMID: 34750551 PMCID: PMC8574929 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-021-00501-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease is an important clinical condition beset with racial and ethnic disparities that are associated with social inequities. Many medical schools and health centres across the USA have raised concerns about the use of race - a socio-political construct that mediates the effect of structural racism - as a fixed, measurable biological variable in the assessment of kidney disease. We discuss the role of race and racism in medicine and outline many of the concerns that have been raised by the medical and social justice communities regarding the use of race in estimated glomerular filtration rate equations, including its relationship with structural racism and racial inequities. Although race can be used to identify populations who experience racism and subsequent differential treatment, ignoring the biological and social heterogeneity within any racial group and inferring innate individual-level attributes is methodologically flawed. Therefore, although more accurate measures for estimating kidney function are under investigation, we support the use of biomarkers for determining estimated glomerular filtration rate without adjustments for race. Clinicians have a duty to recognize and elucidate the nuances of racism and its effects on health and disease. Otherwise, we risk perpetuating historical racist concepts in medicine that exacerbate health inequities and impact marginalized patient populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nwamaka D Eneanya
- Renal-Electrolyte and Hypertension Division, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - L Ebony Boulware
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer Tsai
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marino A Bruce
- Program for Research on Faith, Justice, and Health, Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, University of Houston College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chandra L Ford
- Center for the Study of Racism, Social Justice & Health, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christina Harris
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Leo S Morales
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael J Ryan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter P Reese
- Renal-Electrolyte and Hypertension Division, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Roland J Thorpe
- Program for Research on Men's Health, Hopkins Center for Health Disparities Solutions, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michelle Morse
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Valencia Walker
- Department of Paediatrics, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Antonio A Lopes
- Clinical Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit of the Edgard Santos University Hospital and Department of Internal Medicine, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Keith C Norris
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang HE, Landers M, Adams R, Subbaswamy A, Kharrazi H, Gaskin DJ, Saria S. OUP accepted manuscript. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2022; 29:1323-1333. [PMID: 35579328 PMCID: PMC9277650 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocac065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Health care providers increasingly rely upon predictive algorithms when making
important treatment decisions, however, evidence indicates that these tools can lead to
inequitable outcomes across racial and socio-economic groups. In this study, we
introduce a bias evaluation checklist that allows model developers and health care
providers a means to systematically appraise a model’s potential to introduce bias. Materials and Methods Our methods include developing a bias evaluation checklist, a scoping literature review
to identify 30-day hospital readmission prediction models, and assessing the selected
models using the checklist. Results We selected 4 models for evaluation: LACE, HOSPITAL, Johns Hopkins ACG, and HATRIX. Our
assessment identified critical ways in which these algorithms can perpetuate health care
inequalities. We found that LACE and HOSPITAL have the greatest potential for
introducing bias, Johns Hopkins ACG has the most areas of uncertainty, and HATRIX has
the fewest causes for concern. Discussion Our approach gives model developers and health care providers a practical and
systematic method for evaluating bias in predictive models. Traditional bias
identification methods do not elucidate sources of bias and are thus insufficient for
mitigation efforts. With our checklist, bias can be addressed and eliminated before a
model is fully developed or deployed. Conclusion The potential for algorithms to perpetuate biased outcomes is not isolated to
readmission prediction models; rather, we believe our results have implications for
predictive models across health care. We offer a systematic method for evaluating
potential bias with sufficient flexibility to be utilized across models and
applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Hadi Kharrazi
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School
of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Darrell J Gaskin
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School
of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Suchi Saria
- Corresponding Author: Suchi Saria, PhD, Department of Computer
Science and Statistics, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Malone
Hall, 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mohottige D, McElroy LM, Boulware LE. A Cascade of Structural Barriers Contributing to Racial Kidney Transplant Inequities. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2021; 28:517-527. [PMID: 35367020 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Stark racial disparities in access to and receipt of kidney transplantation, especially living donor and pre-emptive transplantation, have persisted despite decades of investigation and intervention. The causes of these disparities are complex, are inter-related, and result from a cascade of structural barriers to transplantation which disproportionately impact minoritized individuals and communities. Structural barriers contributing to racial transplant inequities have been acknowledged but are often not fully explored with regard to transplant equity. We describe longstanding racial disparities in transplantation, and we discuss contributing structural barriers which occur along the transplant pathway including pretransplant health care, evaluation, referral processes, and the evaluation of transplant candidates. We also consider the role of multilevel socio-contextual influences on these processes. We believe focused efforts which apply an equity lens to key transplant processes and systems are required to achieve greater structural competency and, ultimately, racial transplant equity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dinushika Mohottige
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Center for Community and Population Health Improvement, Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC.
| | - Lisa M McElroy
- Division of Abdominal Transplant, Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - L Ebony Boulware
- Center for Community and Population Health Improvement, Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC; Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wilson EM, Chen A, Johnson M, Perkins JA, Purnell TS. Elucidating measures of systemic racism to mitigate racial disparities in kidney transplantation. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2021; 26:554-559. [PMID: 34456271 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000000913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Given recent national attention to the role of racism in perpetuating racial inequities in society and health, this review provides a timely and relevant summary of key measures of systemic racism in kidney transplantation. More specifically, the review identifies current and promising interventions, whereas highlighting the need for more sustainable and impactful interventions. RECENT FINDINGS Racial disparities persist in kidney transplantation. Black and Hispanic individuals are less likely to receive a kidney transplant than non-Hispanic Whites despite disproportionately higher rates of kidney failure. Studies demonstrate that socioeconomic factors do not fully explain existing racial disparities in transplantation. Systemic racism at all levels, individual, interpersonal, institutional, and structural, is at the core of racial disparities, and current interventions are insufficient in mitigating their effects. Thus, targeted and sustainable interventions must be implemented to mitigate systemic racism in kidney transplantation. SUMMARY Systemic racism in all its forms continues to influence disparities at all stages of kidney transplantation. This paper highlights recent findings that shed light on how racism contributes to racial disparities in kidney transplantation. Using these findings to identify targets and strategies for mitigation, relevant interventions and policies that show promise are detailed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena M Wilson
- Epidemiology Research Group in Organ Transplantation, Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Andy Chen
- Epidemiology Research Group in Organ Transplantation, Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Morgan Johnson
- Epidemiology Research Group in Organ Transplantation, Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City, New York
| | - Jamilah A Perkins
- Epidemiology Research Group in Organ Transplantation, Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tanjala S Purnell
- Epidemiology Research Group in Organ Transplantation, Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Neal RE, Morse M. Racial Health Inequities and Clinical Algorithms: A Time for Action. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol 2021; 16:1120-1121. [PMID: 34597267 PMCID: PMC8425626 DOI: 10.2215/cjn.01780221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard E. Neal
- Committee on Ways and Means in the House of Representatives, Washington, DC
| | - Michelle Morse
- EqualHealth, Brookline, Massachusetts,Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Nissaisorakarn P, Xiao H, Doshi MD, Singh N, Lentine KL, Rosas SE. Eliminating racial disparities in kidney transplantation. Clin Transplant 2021; 35:e14397. [PMID: 34174786 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pitchaphon Nissaisorakarn
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Huiling Xiao
- Center for Abdominal Transplantation, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | | | - Neeraj Singh
- Willis Knighton Health System, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Krista L Lentine
- Center for Abdominal Transplantation, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Sylvia E Rosas
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Kidney and Hypertension Unit, Joslin Diabetes Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|