Work

Unequal Access to Evidence-Based Cardiometabolic Therapies: Racial Disparities in SGLT2 Inhibitor and GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Use Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The pharmacologic management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure, has advanced significantly with the introduction of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is), therapies that provide substantial cardiovascular and renal benefits. Despite robust evidence supporting their use, access to and utilization of these agents remain unevenly distributed across patient populations. This literature review explores disparities in the prescribing patterns of GLP-1 RAs and SGLT2is, with particular attention to the influence of race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status. By integrating findings from recent studies, this review aims to uncover the root causes of these disparities and outline approaches to ensure more equitable delivery of cardiometabolic care.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.106266

Authors: Mukosolu F Obi, Shardil Ahmad, Kamsy Ezechukwu

Institutions: Ochsner Medical Center, Brooklyn Hospital Center, Louisiana State University

Language: English

Topic: Diabetes Treatment and Management

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7147618554