Community
Research shows that for minority populations in the United States, health inequities have resulted in higher chronic disease rates and health complications, increased financial issues and shorter lifespans.
Consider the following:
- The fatality rate for Black and Hispanic Americans is generally higher than whites for heart disease, stroke, cancer, asthma, hypertension, influenza and pneumonia, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and HIV/AIDS
- Data from 2019 shows the uninsured rate of non-Hispanic Black Americans increased to 10.1% compared to a 6.3% of non-Hispanic White Americans, compared to 2018
- In some locations, Black and Hispanic Americans experience food insecurity upward of 10 times more than that of white, non-Hispanic groups
Other factors, including socioeconomic status, geographic location, social network and transportation options, also decrease access to health and preventative care education, social and community support, and availability of fresh food, clean water and air. For instance, people may reside in what is known as a “food desert,” an area with limited access to affordable, nutritious foods. Others may live in “food swamps,” which have a lot of junk food available, rather than healthy offerings.
These environmental and social issues, generally known as Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), prevent many people from living healthy lives.
Increasing awareness and education
Every April, National Minority Health Month helps to promote health through educating individuals and organizations about the need for early detection and control of disease complications in minorities. It also builds awareness about health inequities.
Change through quality nutrition
Medically tailored meals can help close health equity gaps. Ensuring that anyone struggling with a chronic health condition or food insecurity receives the quality nutrition they need to manage their health at home, can help improve health outcomes and total cost of care.
Mom’s Meals® knows that good nutrition is the foundation for good health, and we’re committed to improving lives with delicious, ready-to-heat-and-eat meals. We deliver to homes nationwide – even to the most remote locations. Find out more.
Resources for you
Discover more in our free white paper, Food as Medicine: What Health Care is Doing and What is Working. You’ll also learn how our nutritious home-delivered meals can help improve health outcomes while advancing health equity.
To learn more about how the Mom’s Meals team can help you support your members and clients, please contact us.
