Although some conditions are more common among Black people, there are several conditions that disproportionately affect Black communities. In other instances, Black people may have worse outcomes, or develop conditions earlier, than other communities.
The sad reality is that there are disparities between communities, and they are often complex and intertwined. Before we can delve into the conditions that disproportionately affect Black people in the United States, we have to address causes of racial disparities in health. Why do these disparities exist? In some cases, biology and genetics are the primary determining factors. In most cases, though, disparities are rooted in numerous systemic issues.
- Economic stability: Lacking income or employment can prevent stable housing and access to medical care and nutritious foods.
- Healthcare access and quality: In the United States, Black people are more likely to be uninsured or underinsured than white counterparts. Many reports indicate that they unfortunately receive a lower standard of care.
- Education access and quality: The level of your education is typically tied to income, but education itself can play a role in informing you about health and helping you live a longer life.
- Social and community context: The mistrust of the medical community may have deep roots in some pockets of Black communities.
- Environment: Where you live can impact your overall health. For example, living in an area with high rates of violence or pollution can expose you to adverse health problems or injuries.
How do these factors influence Black people’s experiences with specific health conditions? Let’s explore that and more below.
Diabetes
Statistically, Black adults are twice as likely as white adults to develop type 2 diabetes. That occurs when the body cannot produce sufficient insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Although genetic factors play into the development of diabetes, many socioeconomic factors and high obesity rates are at play. Complications from diabetes, such as kidney disease, are also more common in Black people. To fight back against diabetes, try to eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and maintain moderate weight. If you have diabetes, monitor and manage blood sugar to avoid complications.
Stroke
A stroke is usually a result of a blockage in an artery, which means that not enough blood can get to the brain. Similar to other conditions relating to cardiovascular health, stroke disproportionately affects Black adults in the United States. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, stress, smoking, and diabetes contribute to stroke. Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of stroke, even if you have a family history of the condition. Reduce your salt intake, quit smoking, and learn more about the signs and symptoms of a stroke.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming nearly 700,000 lives per year. Despite having lower rates than white people, Black people in the United States are 30% more likely to die from heart disease. Research indicates that heart disease is also more likely to affect Black adults at a younger age. It’s worth noting that Black Americans have higher rates of major risk factors for heart disease, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. You can reduce your risk of heart disease if you adopt heart-healthy habits, know your family history, check blood pressure regularly, make efforts to reduce blood pressure, and maintain a healthy weight.
Obesity
If you are obese, you significantly increase your risk of heart disease and diabetes, in addition to other health conditions. Surveys indicate that Black adults in the United States are 30% more likely to have obesity than white adults. For children and teens and women, the disparity is even greater at 50%. As we’ve stated in this article, obesity is a risk factor for many health conditions on this list, and it can worsen outcomes. The obesity disparity is largely attributed to economic and geographic causes. Some people may live in food deserts, where nutritional options aren’t as readily available and physical activity is challenging. To fight the obesity epidemic, help children develop healthy eating and exercise habits. Support community efforts to make nutritious food options more accessible and engage in physical activity.
High Blood Pressure
The American Heart Association (AHA) estimates that 55% of Black adults in the United States have high blood pressure. That is one of the highest rates for high blood pressure in the world. Additionally, high blood pressure typically affects Black people earlier in life than it affects white people. Both obesity and diabetes are two contributing factors to high blood pressure, but so are racial discrimination and stress. If you want to reduce blood pressure levels, limit your alcohol and salt intake, find ways to manage stress, maintain a moderate weight, exercise daily, and eat a balanced diet.
Kidney Disease
The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) states that Black Americans are more than three times as likely as white people to have kidney failure. Diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure, all of which affect Black Americans disproportionately, can increase the risk of kidney problems. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) test assesses kidney function. Doctors state that this test often estimates that Black people have higher kidney function than they actually do, which can delay detection and treatment. For this reason, the NKF eliminated this calculation and is currently working on better tests to properly assess kidney function because the key to kidney management is early detection.
