What is one consequence of overlooking ethnicity in health assessments?

Overlooking ethnicity in health assessments can lead to potential misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment. This is because different ethnic groups can have variations in genetic predispositions, cultural beliefs, and health behaviors that influence how they experience diseases and respond to treatments. When healthcare providers do not take these factors into account, they may misinterpret symptoms or risks, leading to incorrect diagnoses. Furthermore, treatments that may be effective for one ethnic group could be less effective or even harmful for another due to unique biological or cultural factors. This lack of consideration can result in poorer health outcomes and widen health disparities among different populations.