Search
Close this search box.

News

National Minority Health Month

National Minority Health Month is observed the entire month of April. It is an inclusive initiative that targets the health needs of African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, Native Americans, and other minorities. It builds awareness regarding the unequal burden of preventable death and sickness in these groups. It also promotes action through health education and early management of disease complications. In a multicultural society such as the U.S., access to healthcare for everyone is paramount for the country’s continued progress.

 

HISTORY OF NATIONAL MINORITY HEALTH MONTH

The health and well-being of minorities are not just a modern-day concern. It had its roots many years ago when Booker T. Washington established the National Negro Health Week. Born on a slave plantation, he rose to become a leading African American educator. Washington believed that the key to the progress of African Americans was rooted in the connection between poverty and poor health. He advocated for economic progress not just through education but through improved living conditions that included better sanitation as well as access to healthcare.

In recent times, this has evolved into what is now known as National Minority Health Month. Launched by the National Minority Health Month Foundation, it strives to lessen the health disparities experienced by minorities in the U.S. Health disparities are the imbalance in the quality of health and health care experienced by groups based on their environmental condition, and their social, racial, ethnic, and economic status. These are often caused by inequalities based on income, as a poor person might not be able to seek the same medical care as someone with a higher income. Discrimination also contributes to this by prioritizing one group over another. The environment plays a part as well; people can’t eat healthy food if they have no access to it.

Now more than ever, minorities make up a huge part of the U.S. population. Taking their need to access proper health care seriously ensures that they can contribute not just to economic growth, but enrich the country with their cultural contributions as well.

 

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL MINORITY HEALTH MONTH

  1. Walk to boost your health

    Need to run an errand close by? Ditch the car and walk. You not only reduce pollution, but you are also getting your heart pumping and those feet stepping towards better health.

  2. Set Goals to Adopt Healthy Living

    It can be as simple as drinking more water, sleeping early, or adding more fruit and vegetables to your diet. Take this opportunity to add one healthy habit to your daily life and stick with it. In the long run, you’ll be glad you did.

  3. Move your community

    Get the neighborhood ladies together for a jog or an outdoor Zumba dance class. Host an active playdate for the kids at the playground or local pool. Organize a group run or bike route every weekend. Participating in group physical activities is more fun—and can add to your motivation!

     

    Source: https://nationaltoday.com/national-minority-health-month/

MyChart

Manage your health online, anytime.
You can connect with your health care team through a convenient, safe, and secure environment.

Already signed up?

To enroll in the patient portal

Skip to content