Scoping review highlights the prevalence of uterine fibroids in women of African and Caribbean descent, indicating significant research gaps in the UK healthcare context.
Background Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are common benign tumours affecting women in the UK. Globally, women of African and Caribbean descent report a higher prevalence, earlier onset, and greater symptom severity compared to other racial groups. Despite this known disparity, there is a paucity of evidence for this population within the UK healthcare context. Objective To review the existing UK-based evidence concerning uterine fibroids among women of African and/or Caribbean ancestry. Search strategy Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library in July 2025. Grey literature sources were also included in the searches. Selection criteria Studies conducted in the UK, focusing on African and Caribbean women, and reporting on uterine fibroids. Data collection and analysis Data was extracted from the included studies and analysed thematically. Main results The search identified six studies. Key findings include the evidence on genetic predispositions to uterine fibroids, the potential role of Vitamin D as a protective factor, rare presentions of the disease, and the use of minimally invasive surgical treatments with the potential for improved treatment outcomes, including recovery time and quality of life. Conclusion This review confirms a critical lack of focused research on uterine fibroids among Black women in the UK. Our findings underscore the need for further research in this population.
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Bruce et al. (2025) studied this question.
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