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A concerning trend in healthcare is the earlier onset of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke in African Americans compared to white Americans. While genetics might play a role in some cases, the bigger picture points to social and economic factors that significantly impact how African Americans prevent and manage these conditions. Black holistic doctor Atlanta is what you need if you wish to turn things around and break the chain.
Why Should You Consult Black Holistic Doctor Atlanta?
African Americans deal with health issues that are deep-rooted in the genes. Mainstream medical science caters to health issues using a common approach. However, functional medicine gets to the root of the problem which is exactly why they must trust a Black holistic doctor Atlanta.
Here are some reasons why:
Asthma
Asthma, a condition that narrows airways in the lungs and hinders breathing, disproportionately affects children residing in areas with poor air quality. Black communities, unfortunately, have often borne the brunt of environmental injustice, leading to increased exposure to air pollutants.
Statistics from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reveal a stark disparity: Black Americans are diagnosed with asthma 50% more frequently than white Americans. The impact goes beyond diagnosis, with Black people experiencing a fivefold increase in emergency room visits due to asthma attacks and a threefold increase in asthma-related mortality.
Diabetes
African Americans face a higher risk of diabetes compared to non-Hispanic whites. They are diagnosed with the condition nearly twice as often, and experience more severe complications. This includes an increased likelihood of kidney failure (end-stage renal disease) and amputations in the lower limbs.
Obesity
Black adults in the US are significantly more likely to struggle with obesity compared to white adults. This gap widens even further for children, teenagers, and particularly Black women, who are 50% more likely to be obese. This excess weight is a known risk factor for many health problems and can worsen existing conditions.
The reasons behind this disparity are often rooted in social and economic factors. Limited income can make it difficult to afford healthy food choices. Additionally, some communities lack access to fresh produce and grocery stores, creating what's known as a "food desert." Furthermore, safe spaces for physical activity may be scarce in certain areas. These challenges contribute significantly to the higher obesity rates observed in Black communities. Black holistic doctor Atlanta tackles this problem with a balanced approach.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major risk factor for heart disease and disproportionately impacts African Americans. Statistics show that around one-third of African Americans struggle with this condition. Unfortunately, managing high blood pressure often requires consistent access to healthcare, which can be a challenge for some communities. This disparity contributes to African Americans having higher rates of uncontrolled hypertension compared to non-Hispanic whites. Additionally, they tend to develop high blood pressure at a younger age and experience more severe readings.
Stroke
Strokes, caused by blood flow disruptions in the brain, are a significant health concern for Black adults in the US. They experience strokes more frequently and have a higher mortality rate compared to the national average.
Several factors contribute to this increased risk, including high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which are more prevalent in Black communities. However, other risk factors like high cholesterol, stress, and smoking also play a role. The good news is that adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle and consulting a Black holistic doctor Atlanta can significantly lower your risk of stroke, even if you have a family history of the condition.
Cancer
Cancer survival rates and mortality rates for Black Americans are concerningly lower than for any other racial group in the US, according to the American Cancer Society. This disparity is primarily linked to social and economic factors, as well as access to healthcare, rather than biological differences.
Here's a breakdown of some specific cancers:
- Breast cancer: Black women face a 41% higher mortality rate from breast cancer compared to white women.
- Prostate cancer: Black men are diagnosed with prostate cancer 73% more often than white men and are twice as likely to die from it.
- Colorectal cancer: Due mainly to screening disparities, Black people have a 20% higher chance of developing colorectal cancer, a disparity that emerged recently within the last three decades.
- Lung cancer: Black men are diagnosed with lung cancer 12% more frequently than white men. Both Black men and women tend to be diagnosed at a younger age.
- Multiple myeloma: This blood cancer affects Black people at twice the rate it does white people.
Kidney Disease
The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) reports a troubling disparity: Black Americans are more than three times more likely to experience kidney failure compared to white Americans. This increased risk is attributed to higher prevalence of conditions like diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure within Black communities.
However, a previously used kidney function test, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), has been found to be inaccurate for Black patients. This test often overestimates kidney function, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. The NKF has addressed this issue by eliminating the use of this specific calculation in their recommendations and is advocating for nationwide adoption of this change.
Early detection is crucial for managing kidney disease. Unfortunately, many Black Americans face barriers to healthcare access, leading to late-stage diagnoses. This lack of insurance or quality healthcare can significantly disadvantage People of Color in terms of early detection and treatment of kidney disease.
Seeking Wellness as a Black Atlantan? Trust Nina Ross Functional Medicine
Looking for a doctor who understands your unique health journey? Dr. Nina Ross is a trusted Black holistic doctor serving the Atlanta community. She takes a comprehensive approach to your health, focusing on the root causes of illness and promoting overall well-being.
Ready to invest in a holistic way to good health? Contact Nina Ross Functional Medicine today!
