April is National Minority Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the health disparities that disproportionately affect minority populations in the United States. Despite significant advances in health equity initiatives in recent decades, racial and ethnic minority groups continue to experience increased risks for ongoing health conditions — including chronic illnesses like hypertension, diabetes and certain types of cancer — compared to White populations.
In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), African Americans are 30% more likely to die from heart disease than non-Hispanic whites, while Asian Americans are the only U.S. population suffering cancer as the leading cause of death. Hispanic/Latino populations have the highest uninsured rates in the U.S., leading to critical gaps in care.
In addition to physical health, minority populations experience higher rates of psychiatric and behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Stigma around mental health within these populations may prevent people from getting the help they need.
What are Health Disparities?
The CDC defines health disparities as preventable differences in the burden of disease, injury, violence or opportunities to achieve optimal health experienced by socially disadvantaged populations. Health disparities are directly tied to underlying social determinants of health, the conditions in which people live and work that have an impact on their overall health. Non-medical factors that greatly influence health include poverty, lack of education, limited access to nutritious foods and racism.
Gaps in access and quality of care impede health outcomes of minority populations. Systemic barriers to care include lack of health insurance coverage, literacy and language barriers, transportation and geographic issues and discrimination and bias from health care providers.
What is National Minority Health Month?
As National Minority Health Month unfolds, individuals, organizations and policymakers will rally together to advocate for action and inclusivity in the health and well-being of all. This year’s theme, “Be the Source for Better Health,” affirms we all have a role to play in improving health outcomes through our cultures, communities, and connections.
It takes collective action, no matter how big or small, to chip away at the health inequities experienced by minorities. You can get involved by promoting the FDA’s virtual webcast and spreading the word about this important observance on social media using #NMHM2024. The FDA has a wealth of resources, including fact sheets and brochures, available to download year-round.
How CTI-OK Can Help
At CTI-OK, we witness the real-life toll of health inequities on our clients and their families. That's why it's important to not only recognize the problem but to take action to address it. Our holistic approach to care addresses both physical and mental well-being. In addition to substance use, mental health and behavioral health treatments, we also offer primary health care services on site at our Tulsa facility.
We work to break down barriers for our clients by providing services designed to be culturally- and age-appropriate. Our providers are bilingual and bi-literate, and our team of experienced professionals guide clients every step of the way, providing personalized care to meet unique needs. We believe everyone deserves access to inclusive, affordable, quality care and support.
This National Minority Health Month, we hope you’ll join us in addressing minority health and searching for ongoing solutions designed to make our country a more inclusive place in all aspects of life. Together, we can all help drive change aimed at achieving health equity for all.
Comments