CHEST Guidelines-Ethnicity-in-Pulmonary-Arterial-Hypertension_2017

Ethnicity-in-Pulmonary-Arterial-Hypertension_2017_

Pdf Summary

The document discusses the role of ethnicity in the management of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and the potential for identifying novel disease phenotypes, which could lead to more personalized treatment options. Over the past 15 years, advancements in PAH treatment have significantly improved patient outcomes. However, understanding unique phenotypes within the disease could further optimize treatment strategies. <br /><br />The document suggests that ethnicity or race is a significant factor in PAH management, as preliminary research indicates differences in PAH presentation, outcomes, and treatment efficacies across different ethnicities. There are structural and genetic differences between ethnic groups that affect the right ventricle's function, pivotal in PAH. The lack of minority representation in clinical trials and registries presents a challenge to acquiring comprehensive data about ethnic influences on PAH.<br /><br />Current PAH treatment guidelines do not account for racial or ethnic differences, unlike guidelines for other cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, which recommend race-specific treatments. Registries and studies have shown discrepancies in PAH prevalence and outcomes among ethnic groups, hinting at variances in disease pathophysiology and access to care.<br /><br />The document emphasizes the need for further research to understand better how genetic, physiological, and socioeconomic factors contribute to these differences. There is a call for more inclusive clinical trials to gather data that reflects the diverse real-world population, which may lead to more effective personalized treatments.<br /><br />In conclusion, recognizing ethnic differences in PAH could become vital for personalized medicine, necessitating broader participation in clinical trials and further study into genetic and socioeconomic impacts on the disease.

Keywords

ethnicity

pulmonary arterial hypertension

PAH management

disease phenotypes

personalized treatment

ethnic differences

clinical trials

genetic factors

socioeconomic impacts

patient outcomes