Public Health England report published into BAME risk of Corona
Ansar Ahmed Ullah
Contributing Editor,Shottobani
London: Following the UK’s Chief Medical Officer Instructions Public Health England (PHE) to investigate disparities in risk and outcomes of COVID-19, ‘Disparities in the risk and outcomes of COVID-19’ report has now been published.
The report confirms that there is clear evidence that COVID-19 does not affect all population groups equally. The PHE review of disparities in the risk and outcomes of COVID-19 shows that there is an association between belonging to some ethnic groups and the likelihood of testing positive and dying with COVID-19. This review found that the highest age standardised diagnosis rates of COVID-19 per 100,000 population were in people of Black ethnic groups (486 in females and 649 in
males) and the lowest were in people of White ethnic groups (220 in females and 224
in males).The evidence describing risk of severe COVID-19 is mixed. More, high quality research is needed before any conclusions can be reached. The emerging evidence suggests excess mortality due to COVID-19 in BAME populations. Individuals of Black African or Black Caribbean and Asian ethnic groups may have the highest increased risk.
The literature review and stakeholder feedback indicate that risks associated with COVID-19 transmission, morbidity, and mortality can be exacerbated by the housing challenges faced by some members of BAME groups. The most recent research from the UK suggests that both ethnicity and income inequality are independently associated with COVID-19 mortality. Individuals from BAME groups are more likely to work in occupations with a higher risk of COVID-19 exposure. They are more likely to use public transportation to travel to their essential work. Historic racism and poorer
experiences of healthcare or at work may mean that individuals in BAME groups are less likely to seek care when needed or as NHS staff are less likely to speak up when they have concerns about Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) or risk.
The evidence describing risk of severe COVID-19 among BAME populations is unclear. More, high quality research is needed before any conclusions can be reached.