Who We Are
Welcome to a supportive and empowering community dedicated to addressing the urgent issue of health inequities among African Americans. Our community is designed to provide a safe space for open discussions, where individuals can share their experiences, gain knowledge and insights, and receive support.
We are committed to spreading awareness and educating our members on a range of health topics that disproportionately affect African Americans, including heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes, stroke, sickle cell disease, and more. By sharing information and resources, we aim to empower our members with the tools and knowledge needed to lead healthy lives and prevent these diseases.
Our community recognizes that the fight against race-based disease inequities requires a collective effort. By joining us, you'll be part of a movement that is actively working towards positive change. Our mission is to revolutionize the landscape of health and expand our footprint, creating a better future for all. So why not join us today and be a part of this inspiring movement?
Improving lives through EDUCATION and INFORMATION
Dr. Daniel Evans, Internal Medicine - Northwestern Hospital
“I find this map of health literacy in the U.S. horrifying. (http://healthliteracymap.unc.edu/)
Your approach might have more potential to break through.”
African Americans in the United States are known to have a higher risk of dying at an early age from various health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. This alarming trend is often attributed to a combination of social, economic, and environmental factors that create a unique set of challenges for this population.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), African Americans have a life expectancy that is about 3.5 years shorter than that of non-Hispanic whites. This disparity is even more pronounced when looking at specific health conditions. For instance, African Americans are twice as likely to die from diabetes as non-Hispanic whites. The risk of high blood pressure is also higher in this group, which increases the likelihood of developing other health complications such as heart disease and stroke.
Several factors contribute to the higher prevalence of these health issues in African Americans. One key factor is genetics. African Americans have a higher incidence of genes that predispose them to certain conditions, such as sickle cell anemia, which can lead to stroke. Additionally, African Americans are more likely to have a gene variant that makes them more susceptible to high blood pressure.
Another significant factor is lifestyle. African Americans are more likely to live in areas with limited access to healthy food options, safe spaces for exercise, and healthcare facilities. They are also more likely to experience high levels of stress due to discrimination, economic hardship, and other social factors. All of these factors can contribute to an increased risk of developing health problems.
To address these disparities, there is a need for more targeted efforts to improve the health outcomes of African Americans. Our goal is to provide our members with valuable information and resources that they can use to take control of their health and prevent the diseases that disproportionately affect African Americans. Through education and awareness, we strive to empower our community with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
The Disparity in Health Literacy
Blacks are 37.5% HIGHER in the Below Basic Category than Whites.
Also, the LOWEST among ALL ethnicities at being PROFICIENT in healthy literacy at 2%.
Who has an effective plan for reaching this target with live-saving information in a way that they will receive?
We do (BHRT), and our performance with other health topics like prostate cancer proves it.
Below Basic in Health Literacy (percent)
Proficient in Health Literacy (percent)
Key Channels for Content Distribution
