Uncovering Hidden Health Risks

The medical community has observed that COVID-19 disproportionately affects communities of color. The CDC reports Black, Hispanic and Native people experience higher COVID-19-related hospitalization and deaths than White populations—an alarming trend that unfortunately applies to many other health concerns as well. You might know that certain ethnicities are at higher risk of developing some diseases, but what factors drive these differences? And which health risks are important for minorities to be aware of?

Factors Driving Minority Health Disparities

In the United States, there are 19.9 million Asian Americans, 41.1 million Black Americans, 33.8 million multiracial Americans and 3.7 million people Native Americans/Alaskan Natives. Though the 2020 U.S. Census data showed that these populations have grown considerably over the last 10 years, equality in healthcare is still an ongoing concern. JAMA and associated journals produced over 800 articles on inequities in the past five years alone.

Many theorize that the COVID-19 health disparities observed in minority populations are due to several factors, including limited access to medical facilities, low income, education gaps, higher likelihood of being an essential worker, housing that prevents social distancing options and previous healthcare experiences. According to The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), other challenges might include living in food deserts, areas of high pollution or neighborhoods that lack adequate access to workout facilities.

Giving Your Community a Boost

Raising awareness about health disparities that continue to affect racial and ethnic minority populations is vital for all communities across America. Because of this, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Minority Health (OMH) designates every April as National Minority Health Month (NMHM).

In 2022, the theme they selected is "Give Your Community a Boost" as a part of their dedication to educating communities and debunking misinformation about COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.

However, being aware of health disparities and the cause of those differences isn't enough. We must also know which health conditions these ethnicities are at higher risk for developing and prevention methods. So, what can you do to lower your risk or the risks of those you care about in your community?

One study found that Black adults 49 and younger are twice as likely to die of heart disease, and one in three battle high blood pressure. Help your heart by incorporating more leafy greens in your diet and upping exercise. Only one in four adults get enough physical activity—which can be easy as taking a walk or downloading a free exercise app. It's also essential to find ways to reduce stress. Long-term stress increases cortisol levels, cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure.

Studies show that White Americans are more likely to see a primary care physician, specialist or schedule vaccinations than other races—even if they have the same insurance provider (like Medicare). Regularly visiting a physician helps you manage chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, asthma, and heart disease, which minorities experience at higher rates than their White counterparts. For example, The American Journal of Managed Care reports Black children are twice as likely to develop asthma versus their peers. Meanwhile, Asian Americans experience hepatitis B, liver cancer, tuberculosis and lung cancer more frequently.

JAMA reports that gestational diabetes is generally rising, but the highest rates are among Indian Americans and other South Asian ethnicities. The journal also found that Black women are at higher risk of death due to pregnancy complications, followed by Native American women. The Kaiser Family Foundation reports maternal mortality is often caused by cardiovascular conditions, which can be prevented through diligent healthcare and screenings.

Back