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Publication Date
4-29-2026
Keywords
oregon, ppmc, ppmc gme
Disciplines
Medical Education
Abstract
Background and Aims: Prior studies have shown the impact of racial and ethnic disparities in outcomes of acute pancreatitis (AP). Data remains sparse for Native American populations, who may be uniquely affected by socioeconomic and geographic factors. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the disproportionate outcomes of AP in Native Americans compared to the general population in Northern Arizona. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of hospitalized patients with AP at two community hospitals in Northern Arizona. A total of 1,113 patients between Jan and Aug 2024 were included, comprising 413 Native American patients and 700 patients of other racial backgrounds. The key outcomes evaluated were alcohol and tobacco history, etiology of AP, and discharge outcomes. Results: Between groups, the Native American group had younger patients (p < 0.0001) with higher BMI (p < 0.04) and higher tobacco use (p < 0.0001). There was no difference in reported alcohol use (p = 0.86). Native American patients had a significantly higher proportion of alcohol-induced pancreatitis (p = 0.026). No difference was found in mortality, leaving against medical advice, or hospice enrollment. Conclusion: Alcohol use was reported equally across all groups, yet prevalence of alcohol-induced pancreatitis was significantly higher in Native Americans. Further studies are needed to investigate the impact of racial disparities, especially vulnerable populations such as Native Americans, on outcomes of AP.
Specialty/Research Institute
Graduate Medical Education
Specialty/Research Institute
Internal Medicine
