Health Inequities in Pancreatic Disorders in the Black/African American Community

Pancreatic diseases, such as acute pancreatitis (AP), chronic pancreatitis (CP), and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), disproportionately affect Black/African American (AA) communities in the United States, leading to high incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates. This paper outlines disparities in pancreatic diseases among AAs and explores contributing factors beyond individual biology and behavior, emphasizing the role of social determinants of health (SDoH), including poor access to healthcare, lack of inclusion in research studies, and other crucial systemic and structural factors in historically marginalized AA communities. This review identifies barriers to pancreatic disease research in AAs and advocates for addressing healthcare disparities through community engagement, healthcare workforce diversity, partnerships with minority-serving healthcare facilities, and community-led initiatives targeting lifestyle modification. In conclusion, reducing pancreatic disease disparities in AA communities requires acknowledging systemic influences, engaging frontline communities, implementing innovative healthcare delivery models, addressing modifiable risk factors and structural inequities, and promoting inclusivity in research and healthcare.