{"id":169162,"date":"2024-02-23T02:12:00","date_gmt":"2024-02-23T09:12:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dherbs.com\/?p=169162"},"modified":"2024-02-21T17:43:39","modified_gmt":"2024-02-22T00:43:39","slug":"the-top-health-conditions-that-disproportionately-affect-the-black-community","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dherbs.com\/articles\/the-top-health-conditions-that-disproportionately-affect-the-black-community\/","title":{"rendered":"The Top Health Conditions That Disproportionately Affect The Black Community"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Although some conditions are more common among Black people, there are several conditions that disproportionately affect Black communities<\/strong>. In other instances, Black people may have worse outcomes, or develop conditions earlier, than other communities.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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<\/a> 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.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n How do these factors influence Black people\u2019s experiences with specific health conditions? Let\u2019s explore that and more below. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Statistically, Black adults are twice as likely as white adults to develop type 2 diabetes<\/a>. 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<\/a> to avoid complications.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n A stroke<\/a> 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<\/a>, stress, smoking, and diabetes contribute to stroke. Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle<\/a> can reduce the risk of stroke, even if you have a family history of the condition. Reduce your salt intake, quit smoking<\/a>, and learn more about the signs and symptoms of a stroke.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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\u2019s 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<\/a>, know your family history, check blood pressure regularly, make efforts to reduce blood pressure, and maintain a healthy weight.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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\u2019ve 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\u2019t as readily available and physical activity is challenging. To fight the obesity epidemic, help children develop healthy eating and exercise habits<\/a>. Support community efforts to make nutritious food options more accessible and engage in physical activity.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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<\/a>, limit your alcohol and salt intake, find ways to manage stress, maintain a moderate weight, exercise daily, and eat a balanced diet.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Diabetes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Stroke<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Heart Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Obesity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
High Blood Pressure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Kidney Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n