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ASTS Celebrates Black History Month: Advancing Equity in Transplantation

Feb 3, 2025, 17:48 PM by Anna Shults
The American Society of Transplant Surgeons (ASTS) proudly celebrates Black History Month, a time to reflect on the achievements and contributions of Black individuals in our communities while reaffirming our commitment to advancing equity in transplantation.
 
One significant step toward equity in transplantation was ASTS’s advocacy for removing race-based adjustments in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) calculations. The outdated use of race in eGFR disproportionately delayed access to kidney transplantation for Black patients. By championing the shift to race-neutral eGFR calculations, ASTS helped eliminate a structural barrier that perpetuated health disparities, improving equity for Black transplant candidates.
 
We are also proud to highlight our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Award, which honors individuals and initiatives that actively foster diversity and advance equity in transplantation. This award reinforces our ongoing commitment to building an inclusive transplant community and addressing the challenges faced by underrepresented groups.

 

Meet this year's DEI Award recipient!

 

Furthering our commitment, ASTS continues to invest in research through the Socioeconomic and Racial Disparity Grant, providing $50,000 in funding to support studies focused on eliminating health disparities in transplantation. This initiative acknowledges the profound impact of socioeconomic and racial inequities on transplant outcomes and underscores our determination to drive meaningful change through research and advocacy.
 
Achieving equity requires continuous action, advocacy, and collaboration to ensure that every patient and professional in the transplant community has the opportunity to thrive. As we celebrate Black History Month, our commitment to these principles remains stronger than ever.
 
Let us not only honor past contributions but also work together to build a future where equity is at the core of everything we do.