Health Resources

Health Conditions A-Z

Comprehensive, culturally-informed information about health conditions that disproportionately affect the Black community. Knowledge is power.

Allergies

Allergies affect everyone, but the burden is not shared equally. Black Americans face higher rates of food allergies, more severe reactions, and significant barriers to the allergy care that could protect them. Research published in JAMA Network Open found that Black individuals report more frequent anaphylaxis and more emergency department visits for allergic reactions than white respondents — even when controlling for other factors. At the same time, Black patients are less likely to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, less likely to be referred to an allergist, and more likely to rely on emergency care rather than proactive allergy management. Environmental factors compound the problem: Black communities are disproportionately located near industrial sites and high-traffic corridors, exposing residents to air pollution that worsens allergic inflammation and drives higher rates of allergic asthma. Approximately 10.6% of Black Americans report food allergies (compared to 9.5% of white Americans), 51% of Black food allergy sufferers are allergic to multiple foods (the highest rate of any group), and food allergy rates among Black Americans are increasing at 2.1% per decade — double the rate for white Americans.

Alzheimer's Disease

Older Black Americans are twice as likely as older white Americans to develop Alzheimer's or other dementias, yet are far less likely to receive a timely diagnosis or access the newest treatments. Higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease in Black communities — driven by structural inequities — elevate Alzheimer's risk.

Asthma

Black Americans are 3x more likely to die from asthma than white Americans.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Black children are significantly less likely to be diagnosed with autism than white children, and when they are diagnosed it is often years later — frequently missing the critical early-intervention window. Research shows this gap is driven not by lower true prevalence but by systemic barriers: lower access to developmental screening, fewer specialist referrals, implicit bias in evaluations, and cultural stigma. Black children are also more likely to be misdiagnosed with behavioral or conduct disorders before their autism is recognized.

Balance Problems

Balance disorders and the falls they cause are a serious and underrecognized health issue in the Black community. Black older adults face higher rates of chronic conditions that contribute to balance problems — including diabetes, hypertension, and stroke — yet are less likely to receive balance screening, vestibular therapy, or fall-prevention counseling. Studies also show that Black patients are less likely to be referred for specialized vestibular testing, leading to underdiagnosis and untreated dizziness that increases fall risk.

Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

55% of Black adults have hypertension compared to 48% of white adults, and it develops earlier in life.

Breast Cancer

Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women.

COPD

COPD is a significant and growing health issue in the Black community. While smoking is the leading cause, Black Americans face higher exposure to air pollution, occupational hazards, and secondhand smoke, all of which increase risk. Black patients are more likely to be underdiagnosed, less likely to receive spirometry testing, and less likely to be referred for pulmonary rehabilitation. Black women in particular have seen rising COPD rates, and Black patients experience higher hospitalization and mortality rates due to delayed diagnosis and unequal access to care.

Cancer

Black Americans have the highest death rate and shortest survival of any racial group for many cancers. Black men are about 2.1 times more likely to die from prostate cancer than white men, and Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer despite having a lower overall incidence. These disparities are driven by later-stage diagnosis, lower screening rates, unequal access to quality treatment, and underrepresentation in clinical trials — not by inherent biological differences.

Cardiovascular Disease

Black adults are 30% more likely to die from heart disease than white adults.

Childhood Vaccines

Vaccination rates among Black children have historically lagged behind other groups due to barriers such as lack of access to healthcare, medical mistrust rooted in historical mistreatment, and misinformation. However, targeted community outreach and school-based programs have helped close much of this gap. Still, disparities remain in flu vaccination and HPV vaccination, and Black families are more likely to report concerns about vaccine safety — making culturally responsive education and trusted provider conversations essential.

Chronic Bronchitis

Black Americans are disproportionately affected by chronic bronchitis and COPD. While smoking is the leading cause, Black communities face higher exposure to air pollution, occupational hazards, and secondhand smoke, all of which increase risk. Black patients are also more likely to be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, less likely to receive spirometry testing, and less likely to be referred for pulmonary rehabilitation — contributing to worse outcomes and higher hospitalization rates.

Colorectal Cancer

Black Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and 40% more likely to die from it.

Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease has historically been considered more common in white populations, but rates among Black Americans are rising and are now similar to or approaching those of other groups. However, Black patients face significant disparities in care — they are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage, less likely to be referred to a gastroenterologist, and less likely to receive advanced therapies such as biologics. Black patients also experience higher rates of complications and surgery, often due to delayed diagnosis and unequal access to specialist care.

Depression

Black Americans face unique challenges with depression. While rates of depression are similar to or slightly lower than other groups, Black adults are less likely to receive treatment — only about one-third of Black adults with mental illness get help. Barriers include cost, lack of insurance, stigma, and a shortage of Black mental health providers. Black women in particular face the 'strong Black woman' expectation, which can delay seeking help. Untreated depression in the Black community is linked to higher rates of chronic disease, substance use, and suicide, which is rising among Black youth.

Diabetes (Type 2)

Black Americans are 60% more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than white Americans.

Dizziness and Vertigo

Dizziness and vertigo are common across all groups, but Black Americans face disparities in diagnosis and treatment. Black patients are less likely to be referred for specialized vestibular testing and vestibular therapy, leading to underdiagnosis of inner ear disorders such as BPPV and Meniere's disease. Black adults also have higher rates of conditions that contribute to dizziness — including hypertension, diabetes, and stroke — yet are more likely to have these symptoms dismissed or attributed to anxiety rather than fully investigated, increasing the risk of falls and related injuries.

Drug Use and Addiction

Black Americans face significant disparities in substance use and addiction care. While rates of drug use are similar to or lower than other groups, Black people are far more likely to face arrest and incarceration for drug offenses rather than treatment. Black patients are less likely to receive medications for opioid use disorder such as buprenorphine, and are more likely to be discharged from the hospital without addiction treatment after an overdose. The opioid crisis has increasingly affected Black communities, with overdose death rates rising faster among Black Americans than any other group in recent years.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Black children are 1.7x more likely to have eczema than white children.

Emphysema

Emphysema and COPD disproportionately affect Black Americans due to higher exposure to air pollution, occupational hazards, and secondhand smoke. Black patients are more likely to be underdiagnosed, less likely to receive spirometry testing, and less likely to be referred for pulmonary rehabilitation. Black women in particular have seen rising rates of COPD and emphysema. Delayed diagnosis and unequal access to specialist care contribute to higher hospitalization and mortality rates in the Black community.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy affects Black Americans at rates similar to or higher than other groups, but Black patients face significant disparities in care. They are less likely to see a neurologist or epilepsy specialist, less likely to receive advanced diagnostic testing such as EEG monitoring, and more likely to be seen in emergency rooms rather than specialty clinics. Black patients are also more likely to experience delays in diagnosis and to be undertreated for seizures. Stigma around epilepsy in the Black community can also discourage people from seeking care or disclosing their condition.

Eye Care

Black Americans face significant disparities in eye health. Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the Black community, and Black adults are up to six times more likely to develop glaucoma than white adults. Black patients with diabetes are also at higher risk for diabetic retinopathy, yet are less likely to receive regular eye exams and timely treatment. Barriers include cost, lack of insurance, fewer eye care providers in underserved areas, and lower awareness of the importance of routine eye screenings.

Fatigue

Fatigue is common across all groups, but Black Americans face unique factors that increase its burden. Higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease can contribute to persistent fatigue. Chronic stress from racism and discrimination, along with the emotional labor of navigating healthcare and workplaces, can also drain energy. Black patients are more likely to have fatigue dismissed or attributed to lifestyle rather than fully investigated, which can delay diagnosis of serious underlying conditions.

Fibroids (Uterine)

Black women are 3x more likely to develop fibroids and often have larger, more symptomatic fibroids.

Fistulas

Fistulas are a significant health issue in the Black community, particularly in two areas. Anal fistulas are a common complication of Crohn's disease, which is rising among Black Americans and is often diagnosed at a later stage. Obstetric fistulas, though rare in the United States, are linked to disparities in maternal care, and Black women face higher rates of severe maternal complications that can increase risk. Black patients are also less likely to be referred early to specialists such as gastroenterologists or colorectal surgeons, which can delay diagnosis and treatment of fistulas.

Food Allergy

Food allergies affect people of all backgrounds, but research shows Black children are more likely to have food allergies than white children, yet are less likely to receive a formal diagnosis or carry an epinephrine auto-injector. Black families also face higher rates of food insecurity, which can make avoiding trigger foods and accessing allergen-free options more difficult. Disparities in access to allergists and specialty care can lead to delayed diagnosis and poorer management of food allergies in the Black community.

Glaucoma

Black Americans are 6-8x more likely to develop glaucoma and 15x more likely to become blind from it.

HIV

Black Americans are disproportionately affected by HIV. Black people represent about 13% of the U.S. population but account for a much higher percentage of new HIV diagnoses. Black women, in particular, face higher rates of HIV compared to women of other races. Stigma, lack of access to healthcare, and lower rates of HIV testing and prevention services such as PrEP contribute to these disparities. However, with early testing and treatment, Black Americans living with HIV can lead long, healthy lives.

Heart Disease

Black Americans have the highest rate of death from heart disease compared to other racial groups.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis B and C disproportionately affect Black Americans. Black adults are more likely to have chronic Hepatitis C and are less likely to be tested or treated, often being diagnosed at later stages of liver disease. Hepatitis B is also more common in Black communities, partly due to lower vaccination rates and gaps in screening. Barriers to care, including lack of access to testing and treatment, contribute to higher rates of liver cancer and liver-related deaths among Black Americans.

Hypertension

More than half of Black adults have hypertension, and it tends to develop earlier and be more severe.

Hyperthyroidism

While thyroid disorders are often under-recognized in the Black community, research indicates that Graves' disease can present more aggressively in Black patients, with greater eye involvement and cardiovascular complications. Racial disparities in thyroid function screening and treatment access contribute to delayed diagnosis and management.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism affects Black Americans, though it is often underdiagnosed in this community. Black women are particularly at risk, as women are more likely than men to develop thyroid conditions. Symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression can be mistaken for other conditions or attributed to lifestyle, leading to delayed diagnosis. Black patients are also less likely to be referred to endocrinologists for specialized care. Regular screening and awareness of family history are important for early detection and treatment.

Infant and Newborn Nutrition

Black infants face unique nutrition challenges in the United States. Black women have lower rates of breastfeeding initiation and continuation compared to other groups, often due to barriers such as lack of support, early return to work, and limited access to lactation consultants. Black infants are also more likely to be formula-fed and may face higher risks of early introduction of solid foods. These disparities, along with food insecurity, can contribute to higher rates of infant obesity and related health issues. Culturally sensitive support and education are key to improving nutrition outcomes for Black infants.

Intestinal Cancer

Black Americans have the highest death rate from colorectal cancer of any racial or ethnic group in the United States. Black men and women are more likely to develop colorectal cancer and are more likely to die from it, largely due to later-stage diagnosis, lower screening rates, and disparities in access to treatment. Black patients are also less likely to receive timely follow-up after abnormal screening results. Earlier and more frequent screening, along with equitable access to care, are critical to reducing these disparities.

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Black women have nearly twice the rate of iron deficiency anemia as white women.

Kidney Cysts

Kidney cysts and kidney disease in general disproportionately affect Black Americans. Black adults are more likely to develop chronic kidney disease and progress to kidney failure, partly due to higher rates of diabetes and high blood pressure, the two leading causes of kidney disease. Polycystic kidney disease can affect people of all backgrounds, and Black patients may face delays in diagnosis and referral to nephrologists. Access to regular screening, blood pressure control, and early treatment is critical to preventing serious kidney damage in the Black community.

Kidney Disease

Black Americans are nearly 4x more likely to develop kidney failure than white Americans.

Legionnaires' Disease

Legionnaires' disease can affect anyone, but Black Americans may face higher risk due to several factors. Black communities are more likely to live in older housing with aging plumbing systems, which can harbor Legionella bacteria. Higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and lung disease, along with disparities in access to healthcare, can increase the severity of the illness and the risk of complications. Black patients may also face delays in diagnosis and treatment, which can lead to worse outcomes. Awareness of the signs and sources of Legionella is important for prevention.

Lupus

Black women are 2-3x more likely to develop lupus and experience more severe disease.

Maternal Health

Maternal health is one of the most urgent health issues facing Black Americans. Black women are 3 to 4 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women, regardless of income or education. This disparity is driven by a combination of factors, including chronic stress from racism, implicit bias in healthcare, delayed treatment of complications, and lack of access to quality maternal care. Black women are also more likely to experience severe complications such as preeclampsia, hemorrhage, and postpartum depression. Advocacy, culturally competent care, and improved access to doulas and maternal health services are critical to closing this gap.

Meniere's Disease

Meniere's disease affects people of all backgrounds, but Black Americans may face unique challenges in diagnosis and care. Symptoms such as dizziness and hearing loss can be mistaken for other conditions, leading to delays in referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Black patients are also less likely to have access to audiology services and specialized care for inner ear disorders. Stress, which can trigger Meniere's episodes, may be higher in Black communities due to racism and socioeconomic factors. Early diagnosis and culturally competent care are important for managing the condition and preventing long-term hearing loss.

Mental Disorders

Mental disorders affect Black Americans at similar rates to other groups, but Black Americans face significant disparities in diagnosis and treatment. Stigma around mental health in Black communities, lack of access to culturally competent providers, and mistrust of the medical system can prevent people from seeking help. Black Americans are less likely to receive mental health services and more likely to receive lower-quality care when they do. They are also more likely to experience trauma from racism and discrimination, which can contribute to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Culturally sensitive care and community-based support are essential to improving mental health outcomes.

Movement Disorders

Movement disorders affect people of all backgrounds, but Black Americans face unique challenges in diagnosis and care. Parkinson's disease, for example, is often underdiagnosed or diagnosed at later stages in Black patients, partly due to differences in access to neurologists and movement disorder specialists. Black patients are also less likely to be referred for advanced treatments such as deep brain stimulation. Stigma around symptoms such as tremors or involuntary movements can delay people from seeking care. Early diagnosis and access to specialized neurological care are important for managing these conditions and improving quality of life.

Multiple Myeloma

Black Americans are twice as likely to develop multiple myeloma as white Americans.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis has historically been underrecognized in Black Americans, but recent research shows that Black Americans are at higher risk for MS than previously believed and may experience a more aggressive disease course. Black patients are more likely to develop severe disability more quickly and to have greater spinal cord involvement. They are also less likely to be referred to MS specialists or to receive the latest disease-modifying therapies. Delays in diagnosis and limited access to specialized neurological care contribute to worse outcomes. Increased awareness, early diagnosis, and equitable access to treatment are essential for improving MS outcomes in Black communities.

Mycobacterial Infections

Mycobacterial infections, particularly tuberculosis, have historically had a significant impact on Black Americans. During the early 20th century, TB was a leading cause of death in Black communities, driven by poor housing conditions, limited access to care, and systemic neglect. Today, Black Americans continue to experience higher rates of TB compared to white Americans, and are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages of the disease. Disparities in access to screening, preventive treatment, and follow-up care contribute to worse outcomes. Stigma around TB can also delay people from seeking help. Addressing social determinants of health and improving access to early detection and treatment are key to reducing these disparities.

Obesity

Nearly half of Black adults are classified as obese, compared to about one-third of white adults.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

OCD affects people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, but Black Americans are often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Cultural beliefs about mental health, stigma, and a lack of culturally competent mental health providers can prevent Black Americans from seeking help. Black patients are more likely to be misdiagnosed or to have their symptoms attributed to stress or other conditions rather than OCD. They are also less likely to receive evidence-based treatments such as exposure and response prevention therapy. Experiences of racism and discrimination can also contribute to intrusive thoughts and anxiety, complicating diagnosis. Increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and improving access to culturally sensitive mental health care are important for addressing these disparities.

Optic Nerve Disorders

Optic nerve disorders can have a significant impact on Black Americans, particularly because some conditions are linked to other diseases that disproportionately affect Black communities. For example, glaucoma is a leading cause of optic nerve damage and is far more common and more severe in Black Americans, who are up to six times more likely to develop glaucoma-related blindness than white Americans. Ischemic optic neuropathy is also more common in people with high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which are more prevalent in Black communities. Delays in eye care, limited access to ophthalmologists, and lower rates of routine eye exams contribute to later diagnosis and worse outcomes. Regular eye exams and early treatment are essential for preventing vision loss.

Personality Disorders

Personality disorders affect people of all backgrounds, but Black Americans face significant disparities in diagnosis and treatment. Black patients are more likely to be misdiagnosed with personality disorders when they may actually be experiencing trauma, depression, or other conditions, a pattern linked to racial bias in mental health care. At the same time, when personality disorders are present, stigma and a lack of culturally competent providers can prevent Black Americans from receiving appropriate care. Experiences of racism and chronic stress can also shape how symptoms appear, making accurate diagnosis more difficult. Access to trauma-informed, culturally sensitive mental health care is essential for improving outcomes.

Pneumocystis Infections

Pneumocystis infections have historically had a significant impact on Black Americans because of the disproportionate effect of HIV in Black communities. Black Americans continue to account for a high percentage of new HIV diagnoses in the United States, and late diagnosis of HIV increases the risk of developing PCP. Limited access to HIV testing, preventive care, and antiretroviral therapy contributes to higher rates of advanced illness. Stigma around HIV and barriers to healthcare can also delay treatment. Early HIV diagnosis, access to antiretroviral therapy, and preventive medication for at-risk individuals are essential to reducing Pneumocystis infections in Black communities.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia disproportionately affects Black Americans, who experience higher rates of hospitalization and death from the disease compared to white Americans. These disparities are linked to higher rates of underlying conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and sickle cell disease, as well as social factors including limited access to healthcare, lower vaccination rates, and environmental exposures such as air pollution and poor housing conditions. Black children are also more likely to be hospitalized for pneumonia. Lower rates of pneumococcal and flu vaccination contribute to higher risk. Improving access to vaccination, early treatment, and management of chronic conditions is essential to reducing pneumonia's impact in Black communities.

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression affects Black mothers at higher rates than white mothers, yet they are significantly less likely to receive diagnosis and treatment. Black women face multiple barriers including lack of access to mental health providers, financial constraints, and stigma around seeking mental health support. They are also more likely to experience pregnancy complications, chronic stress, and discrimination in healthcare settings, all of which increase the risk of postpartum depression. The maternal mortality crisis affecting Black women further highlights the urgent need for better mental health screening and support during and after pregnancy. Culturally responsive care and community support are essential to improving outcomes.

Prostate Cancer

Black men are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer as white men.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis affects people of all backgrounds, but Black Americans face unique challenges in diagnosis and care. Psoriasis, which often precedes psoriatic arthritis, can be harder to diagnose in darker skin because the redness associated with the condition may appear differently, leading to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. Black patients are also less likely to be referred to dermatologists or rheumatologists, and may receive delayed treatment compared to white patients. Studies suggest that Black patients with psoriatic arthritis may experience more severe disease and greater functional impairment. Access to specialists, culturally competent care, and early treatment are essential for improving outcomes in Black communities.

Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension affects people of all backgrounds, but Black Americans face disparities in diagnosis and treatment. Black patients are more likely to have risk factors for pulmonary hypertension, including high blood pressure, heart disease, sickle cell disease, and sleep apnea, all of which are more prevalent in Black communities. Despite this, Black patients are often diagnosed at later stages of the disease and are less likely to be referred to specialized pulmonary hypertension centers. Sickle cell disease, which disproportionately affects Black Americans, is a significant cause of pulmonary hypertension and can lead to worse outcomes. Early detection, access to specialized care, and management of underlying conditions are essential for improving outcomes in Black communities.

Sarcoidosis

Black Americans are 3-4x more likely to develop sarcoidosis and tend to have more severe disease.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia affects people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds at similar rates, but Black Americans are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia than white Americans. Research suggests this disparity is driven largely by diagnostic bias, as Black patients are more likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia even when presenting symptoms similar to those of white patients who receive diagnoses of depression or bipolar disorder. Black Americans also face barriers to treatment including lack of access to mental health providers, stigma, and mistrust of the medical system. They are more likely to enter mental health care through the criminal justice or emergency systems rather than through voluntary treatment. Culturally competent care, accurate diagnosis, and access to ongoing treatment are essential to addressing these disparities.

Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle cell disease affects approximately 100,000 Americans, predominantly those of African descent.

Small Intestine Disorders

Small intestine disorders affect Black Americans in ways that are often overlooked due to underdiagnosis and healthcare disparities. Celiac disease, once thought to primarily affect white populations, is increasingly recognized in Black Americans but remains underdiagnosed due to low clinical suspicion and limited screening. Crohn's disease, which can affect the small intestine, is rising among Black Americans, who are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and experience more severe complications. Black patients also face barriers including reduced access to gastroenterologists, lower rates of referral for diagnostic testing, and medical bias that can dismiss digestive symptoms. These disparities contribute to delayed treatment, poorer nutritional outcomes, and reduced quality of life. Increased awareness, equitable access to diagnostic care, and culturally competent treatment are essential to addressing these gaps.

Stroke

Black Americans have the highest rate of stroke and are more likely to die from stroke than any other racial group.

Throat Cancer

Throat cancer affects Black Americans disproportionately, with higher mortality rates compared to white Americans despite similar or lower incidence rates in some subtypes. This disparity is driven by several factors, including later-stage diagnosis, reduced access to specialized cancer care, lower rates of HPV vaccination, and historical barriers to timely screening. Black Americans are more likely to be diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are more limited and survival rates are lower. Additionally, tobacco and alcohol use, major risk factors for throat cancer, have been heavily marketed in Black communities. Barriers to care include lack of insurance, fewer otolaryngology specialists in underserved areas, and medical bias that can delay referrals. Addressing these disparities requires increased awareness, equitable access to screening and treatment, HPV vaccination promotion, and culturally competent oncology care.

Thyroid Diseases

Thyroid diseases affect Black Americans in ways that reflect significant healthcare disparities. Black Americans are less likely to be diagnosed with thyroid disorders despite having risk factors, largely due to lower rates of screening and fewer referrals for thyroid testing. When diagnosed, Black Americans are more likely to present at later stages of disease and experience more severe symptoms. Black women, who are already at higher risk for thyroid disorders, face compounded barriers including lack of access to endocrinologists and delayed specialist referrals. Additionally, thyroid cancer, while less common in Black Americans, is associated with higher mortality rates due to later-stage diagnosis and differences in tumor biology. Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease may be underdiagnosed in Black communities due to clinical bias and limited access to autoimmune testing. Addressing these disparities requires increased screening, equitable access to endocrine care, and culturally competent treatment.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis disproportionately affects Black Americans, who have rates of TB significantly higher than white Americans. This disparity is driven by social determinants of health, including poverty, crowded living conditions, limited access to healthcare, and higher rates of underlying conditions such as diabetes and HIV that increase susceptibility to TB. Black Americans are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages and to face barriers to completing the lengthy treatment regimen, which can last 6 to 9 months or longer. Historical mistrust of the medical system, lack of access to culturally competent care, and inadequate screening in underserved communities further contribute to these disparities. Additionally, latent TB infection often goes undetected in Black communities due to lower rates of testing and follow-up care. Addressing these disparities requires increased screening, equitable access to treatment, community-based education, and culturally competent public health interventions.