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About Health Disparities
Despite notable improvements in the overall health of the
Nation in the last two decades, there continues to be striking disparities in
the burden of illness and death, experienced by African Americans,
Hispanics/Latinos, American Indian and Alaska Natives, Asian and Pacific
Islanders. A disease-specific example of racial and ethnic disparities in the
United States is a higher rate of cardiovascular disease in these populations.
In addition, adult African Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans have
approximately twice the risk as Whites of developing diabetes.
Compelling evidence shows that disparities persist in nearly
every aspect of health, including quality of health care, access to care,
utilization of health care, and health outcomes. These disparities are said to
be the result of the complex interaction among genetic variations,
environmental factors, and specific health behaviors. Disparities in health
care exist even when controlling for gender, condition, age, and socio-economic
status.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) is
addressing these health disparities through its multicultural education
resources to support heart health interventions in these ethnically diverse
groups.
The Institute's ethnic-specific training and education
tools and materials, while uniquely addressing the culture of each group,
promote heart healthy behaviors and lifestyles, such as eating healthy and
engaging in physical activity.
This Web site provides resources to help you initiate and
expand a heart health program to support the needs of your community. Through
your efforts we hope that ethnic diverse groups will engage in daily activities
to reduce the risk of disease, and to enjoy a healthier life for themselves and
their families.
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