Being Black in America: Healthcare Edition

    Health inequity and disparity in the United States affect many marginalized groups. I have experienced discrimination and neglect by the healthcare system. For this reason, I will be researching and discussing how health inequity impacts the Black community. I am torn, however, about possibly focusing specifically on black women. Overall, I am aware that the Black community has a shorter life expectancy compared to their white counterparts. The short life expectancy can be attributed to their high risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, and kidney failure. Black people are also predisposed to sickle cell disease. Amongst Black women, they are at a higher risk of prenatal issues and pregnancy-related death. Most recently, the Black community has been disproportionately impacted by covid-19. Another sad factor is that the mortality rate for Black people is higher than for white people. Lastly, fewer Black people have healthcare coverage than white people. 

    There are many issues impacting the health and lifespan of the Black community. For my research, I need to find sources defending the accuracy of my claims. Additionally, I must research data and statistics about how the Black community is disproportionately affected.