Health Disparities for African Americans

Health disparities are population specific diversities involving disease, healthcare, and outcome. Among the African American population aids, asthma, coronary heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, sickle cell anemia, and stroke are intensely impacted by disparities.   For example, the African American population experiences:

• Diabetes about 70% more than white Americans.
• Infant mortality about twice as much as white Americans.
• Cancer survival rates of about 15% lower than white Americans.

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What Is Being Done

Community health programs stress prevention and control of chronic diseases. Education and screening efforts are up. Pharmaceuticals are reaching out to aid those who cannot afford their medications. Research has become part of doctors’ clinical practice.

What You Can Do

• Know your risk. Many of these diseases are hereditary, so know your family history.
• Avoid unhealthy habits. Do not become vulnerable due to unhealthy habits. That includes cigarette smoke and alcohol. Exercise instead.

• Be aware of your ph level. High acidity creates a suitable atmosphere for disease.  Low alkaline diets and plenty of distilled water will help keep your ph level in balance.

Photo by Deborah Mazon