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Metabolic Disparities

Meaning

Metabolic disparities describe the observed, measurable differences in the prevalence, incidence, and outcomes of metabolic and endocrine disorders—such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and thyroid dysfunction—among various population groups, often stratified by socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, or geographic location. These disparities are not rooted in inherent biological difference but are the direct result of systemic, non-biological factors, including unequal access to preventative care, nutritional resources, and quality clinical diagnostics. Addressing metabolic disparities is a critical public health and ethical imperative to ensure that the benefits of advanced hormonal science are equitably distributed. Clinical practice must account for these underlying societal influences on patient physiology.