Unequal Health: Anti-Black Racism and the Threat to America's Health

Racial disparities in health and life expectancy are public health problems that have existed since before the US became a country and affect all American lives. This volume presents research from a broad range of academic disciplines, personal narratives, and historical sources to explain the origins of anti-Black racism and describe specific ways in which it threatens both Black Americans' health and the quality of their medical care. The authors analyze the critical roles of individual and systemic racial bias in these racial health disparities and their consequences for all Americans and identify current viable interventions that can reduce them.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Racial disparities in health and life expectancy are persistent public health issues that have plagued the United States since its inception. These disparities significantly impact the lives of all Americans, with Black individuals often facing poorer overall health outcomes and receiving lower-quality healthcare compared to their White counterparts. This comprehensive volume explores the origins of anti-Black racism and its detrimental effects on Black Americans' health and medical care. It brings together research from various academic disciplines, personal narratives, and historical sources to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue.

The authors, drawing on their expertise in research and public policy, analyze the critical roles of individual and systemic racial bias in perpetuating these racial health disparities. They shed light on the consequences of these disparities for all Americans, emphasizing the need for urgent interventions to address them.

The book offers valuable insights to professionals studying health disparities and lay individuals who are concerned about these issues. It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the origins. The origins of anti-Black racism, the impact of these disparities on Black Americans' health and well-being, and the strategies for reducing and eliminating them.

By examining the historical roots of anti-Black racism, the book reveals how it has shaped societal attitudes, policies, and practices, leading to unequal health outcomes for Black individuals. It also explores the systemic factors that contribute to these disparities, such as discrimination in healthcare, housing, education, and employment.

The authors then present specific interventions that can reduce current racial health disparities. They discuss policy changes, community-based initiatives, and healthcare reform efforts that aim to address the root causes of these disparities and promote equity and justice.

Unequal Health is a valuable resource for professionals, researchers, policymakers, and individuals who are committed to addressing health disparities and promoting equal health outcomes for all Americans. It provides a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to understanding and addressing these complex issues.

In conclusion, racial disparities in health and life expectancy are public health problems that have existed since before the US became a country. Black Americans face poorer overall health outcomes and receive lower-quality healthcare compared to their White counterparts. This comprehensive volume explores the origins of anti-Black racism and its detrimental effects on Black Americans' health and medical care. It offers valuable insights and interventions to reduce current racial health disparities and promote equal health outcomes for all Americans. By addressing the root causes of these disparities and promoting equity and justice, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Weight: 712g
Dimension: 159 x 237 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316519486