Are you interested in learning more about the diseases African Americans are most prone to? Knowing what ailments are statistically more likely to affect African Americans can help us become better informed and proactive in leading healthier lives. Being aware of our risk factors is an important part of staying healthy and managing our health care. In this blog post, I will be taking a look at the top 10 diseases that African Americans are most at risk of acquiring. Keep reading if you’d like to learn more about the leading causes of illness affecting this population so that we can start discussing what preventive measures can be taken.
Heart Disease
African Americans can be especially vulnerable to developing certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among African Americans in the United States and often goes untreated or recognized until symptoms worsen with time. It’s incredibly important that African American communities are able to access preventative care to reduce their risk for this and other diseases.
This includes practicing healthy lifestyle habits like eating nutrient-dense foods and regular exercise, consuming alcohol in moderation, quitting smoking, and getting regular check-ups from a primary care doctor. These small changes can have long-lasting effects on improving overall health outcomes in the African American community and reducing the likelihood of these top 10 diseases gaining a foothold. Taking an active role in promoting health today will help ensure a healthier tomorrow!
High Blood Pressure
High Blood Pressure is a major health concern for African Americans. It is one of the top 10 diseases African Americans are most prone to and can cause severe damage to the body when left uncontrolled. Unfortunately, due to high levels of stress, dietary deficiencies, certain medications and limited access to healthcare, African American adults are almost twice as likely than white adults to develop high blood pressure.
The good news is that there are steps we can all take to help manage or prevent symptoms: consistently engage in physical activity, maintain a balanced diet well-stocked with fresh fruits and veggies, get plenty of rest and see your doctor regularly! By staying proactive in your health care you can be sure you’re doing what you can to stay healthy and avoid hypertension.
Obesity Â
One of the top 10 diseases that African Americans are most likely to suffer from is obesity. While many of us have heard the term before, it’s important to understand what it actually means and how it can be prevented. Obesity is characterized by an excessive amount of body fat, which occurs when a person’s energy intake (calories consumed) exceeds their energy output (activity level). This can quickly become a chronic condition that can cause medical issues, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and even heart disease.
Fortunately, diabetes, as well as any other disease associated with obesity is preventable through lifestyle changes like increasing physical activity levels or engaging in healthy eating habits. You don’t have to do it all on your own – seek out support from family and friends or even enlist the help of a wellness coach for the motivation and guidance you need to make sustainable, positive changes towards your health today.
CancerÂ
African Americans are certainly more prone to developing cancer than other ethnic and racial groups, which calls for increased scrutiny when it comes to self-care practices and preventive measures. Cancer disparities stem from a myriad of factors, including life experiences, societal influences, minority stressors, biological makeup, genetic vulnerability and access to healthcare services.
It’s important to note that the American Cancer Society recommends everyone have a thorough discussion with their provider about their personal risk factors so that they can tailor screening and early detections to meet each individual’s needs. Additionally, taking everyday steps such as eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active and limiting alcohol use can help reduce this incredibly dangerous risk factor.
DiabetesÂ
Diabetes is not a simple or straightforward disorder, and African Americans are disproportionately affected. It can be devastating to one’s body, but with conscious effort it is possible to manage the condition. African Americans should take advantage of regular diabetes screenings, as these can help diagnose any precursors or damage done by diabetes early on and limit how much control the diabetes has over your life.
Individuals who find themselves dealing with pre-diabetes or have already been diagnosed with the full-blown disorder have to make changes in lifestyle such as diet, exercise, weight loss and possibly medication to regulate their glucose levels so that they stay healthy. A good rule of thumb is that if you tend towards being overweight then you should at least get yearly checkups to make sure your health remains in top shape.
Asthma
According to the CDC, African Americans are 40% more likely to suffer from asthma than any other racial group in America. This is due, in part, to inequalities in access to health care and clean environments. Asthma can cause inflammation of the airways, leading to chest tightness, coughing, breathlessness and wheezing. If left unmanaged, it can lead to serious complications such as bronchitis or Emphysema.
Taking control of your health by quitting smoking (if you do smoke), limiting exposure to indoor allergens and outdoor pollutants, regularly exercising and maintaining a healthy diet can go a long way in helping manage asthmatic symptoms. Developing an asthma action plan with your doctor is also a great resource for living comfortably with this particular medical condition.
StrokeÂ
African Americans are more likely to experience a stroke than people of any other race. Stroke can be very serious and lead to permanent disability if not caught in time. African Americans should take proactive preventative measures such as making sure to lower their blood pressure, eating healthy diets, and exercising regularly.
Additionally, remaining mindful of any traditional stroke risk factors that may increase the risk for African Americans as compared to other races such as older age, diabetes and sickle cell anemia is key for prevention. Even though genetic risk factors play a role in susceptibility to stroke, non-genetic factors can also contribute significantly; thus having regular check ups with your physician is crucial for managing stroke risks.
Peripheral Artery DiseaseÂ
African Americans are more than twice as likely to suffer from peripheral artery disease as any other ethnic group, highlighting the importance of preventative health care for this population. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which blood flow to arms and legs is restricted due to cholesterol buildup in arteries. This can lead to leg pain and fatigue, especially when walking or climbing stairs.
If left untreated, it can turn into an ulcer or even amputation of limbs. PAD can often be prevented with lifestyle changes. When we quit smoking, monitor diabetes and cholesterol levels, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly and eat nutrient-rich foods, we can prevent PAD. A health coach that specializes in African American risks can provide invaluable insight on how to make healthier lifestyle choices that will keep PAD at bay and maintain a healthy heart in the future.
Sickle Cell DiseaseÂ
Sickle Cell Disease is a blood disorder, primarily found in African Americans, which can be devastating for those with the disease. This disorder affects the red blood cells and causes them to become hard and sticky, trapping oxygen away from the body’s vital organs. Symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, and pain in the hands or feet. While there is no cure for Sickle Cell Disease, treatment is available to manage symptoms and prevent further complications from arising.
Get regular blood-work done. Early detection of Sickle Cell disorder can assist with making sure that you experience fewer problems with Sickle Cell Disease during your lifetime. Overall, as an African American it is wise to keep an eye out for symptoms associated with this debilitating chronic illness. Taking full advantage of medical attention whenever needed could potentially save lives by allowing people living with the disease to live comfortably and normally.
Chronic Liver DiseaseÂ
Chronic liver disease is a major health problem among African Americans and it merits serious attention to help ensure better outcomes. Alcohol, viral infections, certain drugs, autoimmunity and metabolic disorders may cause chronic liver disease. While prevention is key in reducing chronic liver disease in African American communities, it’s just as important for those already living with the condition to receive proper treatment through lifestyle modifications and physician supervision.
Improving access to health care resources and services can help reduce the risk of complications from this potentially life-threatening condition. By taking preventative actions today we can truly make a difference for generations of African Americans now facing chronic liver disease.
Preventing Disease to Close the Gap for African Americans
The health disparities found among African Americans are undeniable, and it is essential to work together to reduce the gap between this population and other ethnicities. Making healthy lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, eating a nutrient-rich diet, managing diabetes, controlling cholesterol levels and quitting smoking can significantly reduce one’s risk for the abovementioned and other diseases. Eliminating barriers to healthcare such as cost of insurance or transportation are essential in helping African Americans have access to quality health care. In addition, having education resources available can help instill the importance of preventive care and create a pathway for improved health outcomes.
By taking these steps, we can ensure that African Americans receive the treatments and services needed to maintain healthy lifestyles and ultimately close the healthcare gap. Together, we can work towards a healthier future for African Americans everywhere. By committing to these efforts, we can create sustainable change that will truly make a difference in the health of African American communities across the nation. It is important to cultivate a healthy lifestyle and focus on your well-being daily.
Together, we can ensure that African Americans have access to the resources they need to maintain healthy lifestyles and achieve better health outcomes. We can make a difference one step at a time by making healthier lifestyle choices. Making these lifestyle changes now is essential for improving the lives of African Americans now and in the future. With dedication to bettering health outcomes, we can make a significant difference in helping close the healthcare gap between African Americans and other ethnicities. By taking preventive steps today, we can truly create sustainable change for generations to come. By working together, we can ensure that African Americans have the resources and support they need to improve their health and live longer, healthier lives.
Sources:
Healthgrades:https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/symptoms-and-conditions/8-conditions-with-higher-risk-for-african-americans
CentraState: https://www.centrastate.com/blog/7-common-health-concerns-african-americans-should-monitor/