Benign Esophageal Disorders: The Thing About Race and Ethnicity

Abstract

The aim of this review is to highlight the racial and ethnic differences in the prevalence, presentation, management, and outcomes of benign foregut disorders. Gastroesophageal reflux disease and achalasia make up the most common benign esophageal disorders. There are limited data in the literature regarding racial and ethnic disparities in the care and management of these disorders. However, studies have shown that racial and ethnic disparities play a role in the management of these disorders. To minimize the impact of these disparities, more effort is needed in identifying the interplay between race, insurance status, socioeconomic status and their underlying mechanism.