According to the Health Resources and Services Administration, health disparities are defined as “population-specific differences in the presence of disease, health outcomes, or access to healthcare.” Considerable racial and ethnic disparities exist in women’s health which is problematic considering women make up 51% of the 309 million people who live in the United States. It is also well documented that African American women are disproportionately affected by conditions that negatively impact their health in comparison to their Caucasian counterparts. Both caregiver- and patient-influenced behaviors create disparity. The primary reasons cited by researchers include:
- Socio-economic status
- health behaviors related to culture
- access to health care
- environmental factors
- direct and indirect manifestations of discrimination.
It is important to recognize distinct patterns of health disparities, especially among African American women, and how they impact the cycle of chronic illness such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer (and sometimes multiple illnesses) within our community. The first step, however, is to understand the factors that lead to health disparities such as bias, prejudice, and stereotyping.
About National Women’s Health Week
During National Women’s Health Week each year, millions of women take steps to improve their health. The week serves as a reminder for women to make their health a priority and build positive health habits for life. The 19th annual National Women’s Health Week kicks off on Mother’s Day, May 13, and is celebrated through May 19, 2018. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health leads National Women’s Health Week to encourage all women to be as healthy as possible.
What steps can I take for better health?
To improve your physical and mental health, you can:
- Visit a doctor or nurse for a well-woman visit (checkup) and preventive screenings.
- Get active.
- Eat healthy.
- Pay attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.
- Avoid unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, texting while driving, and not wearing a seatbelt or bicycle helmet.
Why should I take these steps?
These steps are the foundation for a lifetime of good health. They can help you be as healthy as possible, whether you’re 20 or over 100! Find out what additional steps you can take, based on your age, for good health.
How can I participate in National Women's Health Week?
The Office on Women’s Health invites you to:
- Learn what steps you can take for good health, no matter your age.
- Take the National Women’s Health Week quiz to see how much you know about women’s health.
https://www.womenshealth.gov/nwhw/by-age - Show your friends how you’re making your health a priority with our easy-to-use social media resources. Use the #NWHW hashtag.
- Organize events or activities in your community.
May 13–19, 2018
