Photo by Muhammad-Taha Ibrahim
World Health Day is a painful reminder of the worldwide imperative to prioritize health and well-being. This year, let us highlight the health inequities experienced by Africans and African Americans. Despite advances in science and technology, many groups continue to face disproportionately high rates of sickness and health issues. It is time to take action and address the underlying factors causing these inequities.
Africans and African Americans frequently experience comparable health concerns, including greater prevalence of chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, as well as inequities in access to adequate treatment. Poverty, prejudice, and a lack of education all contribute significantly to these inequities. Furthermore, cultural and historical injustices have contributed to distrust of the healthcare system in these areas, limiting access to care.
According to sources, South Africa’s anticipated TB incidence in 2021 was 304,000, with 55,000 people dying from the disease. South Africa received 172,194 TB case notifications, and all persons with bacteriologically diagnosed tuberculosis were tested for rifampicin resistance. A total of 7,239 patients were diagnosed with drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB), and all received treatment. According to the statistics, African Member States had an anticipated 236 million malaria cases (95% of world cases) and 590,935 malaria fatalities (97% of global deaths) in 2022.1 As in the previous year’s report, only four Member States account for over half of worldwide malaria cases: Nigeria (27%), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (12%), Uganda (5%), and Mozambique (4%). According to UNICEF, 20% of pregnant women living with HIV live in West and Central Africa, 48% are not on treatment, and 400,000 children live with HIV, with only 37% receiving life-saving care. Significant advancements have occurred throughout the last decade. Since 2010, treatment programs have expanded to include pregnant and nursing women with HIV, resulting in tens of thousands of saved lives. In 2022, around 50,000 children got HIV, a 41% decrease from 2010. Similarly, 16,000 teenagers acquired HIV, a 49% decrease from 12 years ago.
Taking Action for Change: A Multifaceted Approach to Health Equity
While the challenges faced by Africans and African Americans in achieving optimal health outcomes are significant, effective strategies exist to address them. Here, we explore two essential pillars for creating lasting change: focusing on preventative measures and tackling the social determinants of health.
A. Focus on Preventative Measures
Investing in preventative measures is crucial for reducing the burden of chronic diseases and improving overall health. Here are a few key strategies:
- Promoting Healthy Diets:
- Public Education Campaigns: It is essential to disseminate information about the importance of balanced diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
- Support for Local Farmers: Encouraging policies that support local farmers’ markets and access to fresh, affordable produce can improve dietary choices in communities.
- Regulation of Processed Foods: Implementing regulations to limit unhealthy ingredients like added sugar and trans fats in processed foods, along with clear labeling, empowers consumers to make informed choices.
Photo by Polina Tankilevitch
- Physical Activity Promotion:
- Creating Safe Spaces for Exercise: Investing in parks, recreation facilities, and safe walking/cycling paths encourages physical activity for all ages.
- School-Based Programs: Integrating physical activity programs into school curriculums can instill healthy habits from a young age.
- Workplace Wellness Initiatives: Encouraging companies to implement workplace wellness programs that promote physical activity through exercise breaks or on-site fitness facilities can benefit employees.
- Early Detection and Screening Programs for Chronic Diseases:
- Investing in Infrastructure: Expanding access to affordable diagnostic tools like blood pressure monitors, blood glucose meters, and basic cancer screenings is crucial for early detection.
- Mobile Health Clinics: Utilizing mobile clinics in rural areas can increase access to screening programs for underserved populations.
- Community Outreach Programs: Organizing community outreach programs that raise awareness about the importance of early detection and offer free or subsidized screenings can encourage preventative healthcare practices.
- Educational Initiatives on Healthy Lifestyles:
- Curriculum Development: Integrating health education into school curriculums can equip young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed choices about diet, physical activity, and overall well-being.
- Community Health Education Programs: Organizing workshops, seminars, and public health campaigns that educate adults about healthy lifestyles can empower individuals to take charge of their health.
- Utilizing Media and Technology: Leveraging television, radio, social media, and mobile apps to disseminate health information in a culturally relevant and accessible way can reach a wider audience.
Photo by Liliana Drew
B. Addressing Social Determinants of Health
The environmental and social conditions that influence health outcomes and social determinants of health play a significant role in health disparities. Here’s how we can address them:
- Advocating for Policies that Address Poverty and Food Insecurity:
- Social Safety Nets: Implementing policies that provide social safety nets for vulnerable populations can help alleviate poverty and improve access to nutritious food.
- Food Assistance Programs: Expanding access to food assistance programs that provide healthy options can address food insecurity, particularly in low-income communities.
- Supporting Sustainable Agriculture: Encouraging practices that promote sustainable agriculture and improve food production can contribute to long-term food security.
- Increasing Access to Affordable Healthcare:
- Universal Health Coverage: Advocating for policies that aim towards universal health coverage can ensure everyone can access essential healthcare services regardless of financial situation.
- Community Health Clinics: Establishing and supporting community health clinics in underserved areas can significantly improve access to primary care services.
- Telehealth Programs: Utilizing telehealth programs can remotely connect patients with healthcare providers, particularly in geographically isolated areas.
- Creating Healthy Living Environments:
- Safe and Affordable Housing: Investing in safe and affordable housing initiatives can contribute to better health outcomes. Overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions can exacerbate health problems.
- Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensuring access to clean water and sanitation facilities is essential for preventing the spread of infectious diseases and promoting overall well-being.
- Urban Planning for Active Living: Developing urban environments encouraging walking, cycling, and access to green spaces can promote physical activity and overall health.
Photo by Safari Consoler
Beyond World Health Day: Taking Action for Lasting Change
World Health Day catalyzes action, but pursuing health equity requires a sustained commitment throughout the year. Here are some ways you can get involved:
- Support Health Organizations: Numerous organizations work tirelessly to improve health outcomes in Africa and the African American community. Consider donating to or volunteering with these organizations. Here are a few examples:
- The World Health Organization (WHO) works globally to improve health outcomes, including initiatives focused on Africa. (https://www.who.int/about)
- The African Union (AU) has established the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) to address public health challenges on the continent. (https://africacdc.org/)
- The National Medical Association (NMA) in the United States advocates for health equity and works to improve health outcomes for African Americans. (https://www.nmanet.org/)
- Numerous local and regional organizations work on specific health issues in African communities and African American neighborhoods. Researching organizations in your area can allow you to support efforts that resonate with you.
- Advocate for Policy Changes: Policy plays a vital role in shaping health outcomes. You can make a difference by contacting your elected officials and urging them to support policies that address the social determinants of health, promote healthy lifestyles, and increase access to affordable healthcare.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Knowledge is power. Equip yourself with health disparities and the strategies for achieving health equity. Share this information with friends, family, and colleagues.
- Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle: Taking charge of your health is powerful. Make healthy choices about diet, physical activity, and preventive care. By prioritizing your well-being, you become a role model for others and contribute to a culture of health.
Together, We Can Create Change
The pursuit of health equity is a collective effort. By working together – individuals, communities, organizations, and governments – we can create a world where everyone, regardless of race or origin, has the opportunity to thrive. Here are some additional thoughts to inspire action:
- Invest in the Future: Investing in the health of children and adolescents is crucial for creating a healthier future generation. Support initiatives that promote healthy living habits in schools and communities.
- Embrace Innovation: Technological advancements can significantly improve health outcomes. Support initiatives that utilize technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, expand access to health information, and promote healthy behaviors.
- Celebrate Success Stories: While challenges remain, success stories exist. Highlighting these achievements can inspire continued efforts and demonstrate the power of collective action.
A Final Word: Building a Healthier World
Ultimately, achieving health equity is not just about treating diseases; it’s about creating a world where everyone can reach their full potential. By working together and taking action, we can build a world where health is a right, not a privilege. Let World Health Day be a springboard for lasting change, and let every day be a commitment to creating a healthier future for all.
Anand Subramanian is a freelance photographer and content writer based out of Tamil Nadu, India. Having a background in Engineering always made him curious about life on the other side of the spectrum. He leapt forward towards the Photography life and never looked back. Specializing in Documentary and Portrait photography gave him an up-close and personal view into the complexities of human beings and those experiences helped him branch out from visual to words. Today he is mentoring passionate photographers and writing about the different dimensions of the art world.
