By Tyra Oldham
Black History Month is a pivotal time to uplift and recognize the contributions of Black people, yet care and health are connections to the future and sustainability of Black people.
Health can cripple the future and affect generational prosperity and longevity, reducing the overall transfer of wealth and the wisdom shared over time and impacting families and relationships.
During the month of Back History, it is time to concern ourselves with Black health considering our community has the highest rate of Hypertension than any other race in the US.
The Centers for Disease Control reported on March 29, 2021, that “The overall prevalence of high blood pressure is 54% among non-Hispanic Black adults, compared with 46% in non-Hispanic white adults, 39% in non-Hispanic Asian adults, and 36% in Hispanic adults.”
Further, Blacks are 60% more likely to have diabetes than White America. In addition, the American Cancer Society reports Blacks to have the highest mortality rate and the shortest survival rates of any other ethnic or racial group.
As my mother experienced Cancer, I found that good and healthy diets impact positive outcomes. These numbers reported by the CDC and American Cancer Association are staggering, yet eating healthy with the cost of food is challenging for many Black people in America.
It is essential to consider Black History month and how we wish to live and learn the role of health for the succession of our families.
During this month, take the pledge and honor Black health by doing the following:
- Take your Blood Pressure for excellent and healthy heart maintenance.
- Check your Cholesterol.
- Women and men have breast examinations.
- Check your skin for Melanomas. Use skin care blocks for healthy skin.
- Check your feet and see a Podiatrist.
- Check your gums and teeth by visiting your local Dentist.
- Women have a Mammogram and Gynecological exam.
- Men have a Urologist exam.
- Last, check on your eyes with your local Ophthalmologist.
Honor our people by respecting our bodies which is embedded in “Black Lives Matter.”