People Fixing the World, Tackling bias in health

People Fixing the World

Tackling bias in health

April 29, 2025

23 minutes

Available for over a year

Bias in the way medical research is carried out means that new medicines for diseases such as cancer – as well as the tools used to diagnose patients with some conditions – are disproportionally tested on people of European heritage. This can lead to those not represented in the data being misdiagnosed as well as some treatments not working as well as they should.

From the Ghanaian scientist helping to develop cancer treatments which work better for African people, to the team in England using AI to diagnose dementia in communities where English isn’t widely spoken, in this programme we will meet the solution-seekers trying to make healthcare more equal.

People Fixing The World from the BBC is about brilliant solutions to the world's problems. We'd love you to let us know what you think and to hear about your own solutions. You can contact us on WhatsApp by messaging +44 8000 321721 or email [email protected]. And please leave us a review on your chosen podcast provider.

Presenter: Myra Anubi

Producer/reporter: Craig Langran

Egypt reporter: Nadine ElShiaty

Editor: Jon Bithrey

Sound mix: Hal Haines

(Image: Dr Yaw Bediako in a laboratory, Yemaachi Biotech)