Health care disparities in critical illness.

Disparities in critical illness are evident in a variety of racial and ethnic groups. Most data available in the literature reflect variations in the incidence, presentation, diagnosis,treatment, and outcomes between African Americans and whites. Most research in critical care concerning disparities relates to cardiovascular illnesses. Significantly less in-formation is available regarding disparities in common ICU diagnoses. Data are significantly lacking delineating the reasons for disparities in the critically ill. Further re-search is required to elucidate the root causes for racial or ethnic differences, provide adequate education for health care providers, and develop and implement evidence-based interventions targeted for specific patient groups.