A recent study has uncovered significant racial disparities in genetic testing for children with neurological disorders in the United States. The research, published in the journal Neurology, sheds light on the challenges faced by Black children in accessing crucial genetic investigations, potentially impacting their diagnosis and treatment.
The study, conducted at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, analyzed electronic health records of 11,371 children seen at pediatric neurology outpatient clinics over an 18-month period. Despite similar rates of genetic test requests by neurologists, Black children were nearly half as likely as White children to complete at least one genetic test.
Dr. Jordan Janae Cole, the study’s lead author from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, expressed concern over the findings. “While pediatric neurologists’ requests for genetic tests were consistent across racial groups, Black children had a lower rate of completing these tests,” she noted. The disparity was particularly stark in insurance denials, with 23% of requests for Black children rejected compared to only 10% for White children.
The research also revealed that children with public insurance were 41% less likely to complete genetic testing than those with private insurance. However, insurance type alone did not fully explain the racial disparities observed. Dr. Cole suggested that other factors, such as systemic racism, wealth inequality, and implicit biases, may contribute to these inequities.
The implications of these findings are significant, as genetic testing plays a critical role in the diagnosis and management of pediatric neurological disorders. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to eliminate barriers and ensure equitable access to genetic testing for all children, regardless of race or socioeconomic status.
As the medical community grapples with these disparities, the researchers emphasize the importance of keeping equity at the forefront of efforts to improve access to genetic testing. By addressing these issues, healthcare providers can work towards reducing health disparities and improving outcomes for all children with neurological disorders.
See: “Racial Disparities Unearthed for U.S. Neurologic Genetic Testing in Children” (February 14, 2025)
