National Minority Health Month

National Minority Health Month: Bridging Health Equity Gaps

April is National Minority Health Month (NMHM), a time to highlight health disparities affecting racial and ethnic minorities and to promote initiatives that advance health equity. Established in 1915 by Dr. Booker T. Washington as “National Negro Health Week,” the observance has grown into a national campaign to address the systemic social determinants of health that disproportionately impact minority communities.

This year’s theme, “Bridging Health Equity,” focuses on innovative ways to close gaps in healthcare access, improve health literacy, and create equitable communities.

Three Facts:

1. Minority communities experience higher rates of chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity due to disparities in access to healthcare and preventive services.
2. Black and Hispanic people in the United States were disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for better healthcare responses in racial minorities.
3. Social determinants of health, such as housing, education, and employment opportunities, greatly influence well-being and are key factors in health equity.

How You Can Help:

1. Advocate for policy changes that ensure healthcare accessibility for all communities, including expanded Medicaid and affordable care programs.
2. Share health literacy resources tailored to minority communities or host events highlighting free screenings and vaccinations.
3. Support organizations working to address inequalities in public health systems.

Three Resources:

1. Office of Minority Health (OMH) – Resources, events, and funding insights for minority health initiatives.
2. CDC: Minority Health – Data and strategies focused on eliminating health disparities.
3. National Minority Health Month Website – Information on NMHM activities and impacts.