Prompt Cast
Addressing Racial Bias in Medical Technology: Scientists Develop Solutions for Non-White Individuals
TLDR A team of young black scientists have developed new solutions, including electrode clips and EEG caps, to address the issue of medical tools not working effectively for non-white individuals. Their work aims to combat racial bias in medical technology and promote inclusivity and innovation in the field.
Timestamped Summary
00:00
A team of young black scientists joined forces with hairdressers to address the issue of pulse oximeters and other medical tools not working as effectively for non-white individuals, with a particular focus on the EG (electroencephalogram) device used to measure electrical activity in the brain.
04:10
A neurologist named Jesse had to spend three hours removing a patient's weave in order to get the electrodes on and make the EG device work, highlighting the breakdown in the system and the need for a solution to the issue of medical tools not working effectively for non-white individuals.
08:56
The EEG device has not been designed with black hair in mind, leading to difficulties in using it on black individuals, but a research associate named Arnell has come up with a new electrode clip design that can work with black hair.
12:48
Arnell has developed a new electrode clip design that can be used with cornrows to improve the EEG signal for black individuals, and Letzel Jones wants to address the issue of researchers not knowing how to work with black hair during EEG setups.
16:49
Letzel Jones and Nina Woodley found that braided styles can actually improve the EEG signal for black individuals, contradicting the assumption that braids would interfere with the electrodes.
20:58
Letzel and Nina found that braided and bun hairstyles can improve the EEG signal for black individuals, and their goal is to make their guide for using the EEG accessible to everyone in order to address the issue of racial bias in medical technology.
25:08
The scientists faced roadblocks in getting others to take their work seriously and had to deal with pushback and criticism for their approach, but they believe that addressing racial bias in medical technology requires a different perspective and the inclusion of personal experiences.
29:30
Scientists have made progress in addressing racial bias in medical technology by developing new solutions, such as electrode clips and EEG caps, that accommodate different hair types and styles, and there is hope that this work will lead to a broader shift in awareness and innovation in the field.
