Treatment Disparities

Evidence indicates that South Asian patients receive different IBD treatments than white patients in Western countries. Prior studies have documented that South Asian IBD patients have lower use of surgery, lower prescription of thiopurines and multiple biologics, more corticosteroid use, and delayed initiation of advanced therapy. This study adds qualitative detail about possible decision-making influences on disparities but does not prove that patient preferences or barriers explain the treatment differences observed. Immigration-related concerns as a driver of healthcare disparities deserve dedicated study among immigrants, refugees, and newcomers. Treatment differences between South Asian and white IBD patients are associated with poorer outcomes, including disease progression and increased need for surgery.