October 21, 2020

Variation in Racial/Ethnic Disparities in COVID-19 Mortality by Age in the United States: A Cross-Sectional Study

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Public Health Policy and Practice

Keywords (Tags): disparities, mortality, public health

Racial and ethnic disparities in COVID-19 mortality rates are particularly strong among younger people. A cross-sectional study reported that as of July 22, 2020, the age-standardized COVID-19 mortality ratios (compared to non-Hispanic white) were 3.6 for people who are non-Hispanic Black, 2.2 for those who are non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native, 2.2 for Hispanic people and 1.6 for non-Hispanic Asian or Pacific Islanders. These racial/ethnic disparities were even more pronounced in younger people (25-54 years old).

Bassett et al. (Oct 20, 2020). Variation in Racial/Ethnic Disparities in COVID-19 Mortality by Age in the United States: A Cross-Sectional Study. PLOS Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1003402