Black History Month

Addressing Health Disparities & Empowering Wellness

Black History Month is an important time to celebrate the contributions of Black Americans and also highlight the ongoing efforts to address health disparities in the community. Due to historical and systemic factors, Black men and women face higher risks for:

• Hypertension and Heart Disease: Black Californians have the highest rates of hypertension among all racial and ethnic groups. Regular blood pressure checks and a heart-healthy diet are essential.

• Diabetes and Its Complications: Early screenings and consistent blood glucose monitoring can reduce the risk of severe complications.

• Cancer: African American women should consult their doctor to assess their breast cancer risk by age 30 and begin annual screenings at 40. Black men should also speak with their physicians about prostate cancer screening. Colon cancer also disproportionately affects the Black community, where the rates are the highest of any racial/ethnic group in the US. African Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups.

• Maternal Health: Black mothers in Los Angeles County face a maternal death risk three times higher than other groups.

At Torrance Memorial, we are deeply committed to advancing health equity through:

• Community outreach and partnerships for culturally responsive care and wellness education

• A Health Equity Steering Committee to reduce disparities in care delivery

• Data-driven efforts focused on Social Determinants of Health 

Words from Dr. W. Alexander Ellis, Family Medicine Physician with Torrance Memorial:

"Many African Americans and minorities do not feel heard, even at the doctor's office. However, avoiding medical treatment has serious long-term effects. Finding a doctor who meets your needs and attending annual physicals is crucial. There are so many things we can catch early on before they become serious."

Your health is your power—let’s honor Black History Month by prioritizing health and wellness.

For more information on the link between race and health disparities, check out the National Library of Medicine's August 2023 article in the Western Journal of American Medicine: “Race, Healthcare, and Health Disparities: A Critical Review and Recommendations for Advancing Health Equity.”