Racial Disparities in Orthostatic Intolerance

Objectives. Existing literature suggests that higher number of Whites report with symptoms of Orthostatic Intolerance (OI). We aim to analyze racial and ethnic disparities in reporting of OI symptoms and suggest likely policy measures to reduce these disparities. Methods. Adult patients (N= 28673) surveyed for the presence of chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms through random mass telephonic interviews were retrospectively assessed for the presence of OI symptoms. OI was defined as the presence of symptoms such as dizziness, unsteadiness, rapid heart beat, shortness of breath, tiredness, weakness, loss of energy, loss of strength, loss of memory and or concentration, temporary periods of blindness, eye insensitivity to lights, and tingling in hands and feet. Racial/ethnic differences in the presence of OI symptoms and associations with history of active drug, onset of disease and socioeconomic status are assessed. Results. Whites are more likely to report to clinics to manage OI symptoms compared to African-Americans (AA). However AA have a higher incidence of symptoms of OI such as dizziness, weakness and less energy. Conclusions. Racial/ethnic disparities in reporting of OI are evident between AAs and Whites due to variety of factors such as lower socioeconomic status, decreased medical access, provider communication issues, cultural and social beliefs. Health disparities can be reduced by implementing language friendly and culturally sensitive community outreach health-education programs.