Though significant data exist highlighting the extent of health disparities there is limited data specifically on dermatologic health disparities. Melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer outcomes are poorer for ethnic minorities, people of low socioeconomic status, less educated, elderly, and uninsured. Recent reports indicate that atopic dermatitis is more prevalent among ethnic minorities; however it is unclear if morbidity is also increased in these populations. Given the current dermatology workforce shortage, the increased patient load may have an adverse effect on dermatologic care access. Additional concerns include the state of dermatologic training, insufficient research involving ethnic minorities, and a lack of investigations of dermatologic health disparities. As the U.S. demographics shift to become more racially diverse, the need to address and reduce dermatologic health disparities will increase.

No abstract

Concern over sentence disparity has prompted several states in recent years to alter their sentencing strategy by removing sanctioning authority from juries and investing judges with this power. Little research, however, has examined the difference between sentences imposed by judges and those imposed by juries. This article reviews sentencing patterns in six southern states over a twenty-five year period from 1957-1982. Three states utilizing only judge sentencing, two states using solely jury sentencing, and one state which changedfrom jury to judge sentencing during this time period were examined. The data reveal that while states utilizing judge sentencing gave more consistent sentences from 1957 to 1977, recent trends indicate that the disparity in judge sentencing has risen to a level that approximates the disparity in jury imposed sentences. The data also indicate a substantial increase in the mean sentence given to robbery defendants during the past five years regardless of the sentencing authority.

No abstract