3-4 pages APA 7 format, 11pt. Calibri font., with proper in-text citations. Include two to three (2-3) scholarly references published within the last 5 years to substantiate your work. Please provide a copy of all references ,.A.I. and plagiarism reports.
Assignment Details:
Using the information from assignments 1–3, complete and submit Part 1 of the first draft of the Key Assignment.
You are the Program Manager, and you are trying to decide on the best course of action to decrease incidence and prevalence of the disease chosen in Week 1. Using Hypertension, African Americans and the state of Georgia as the subjects for this assignment.
You must decide from the data which population is most at-risk and decide on the most appropriate intervention to which you should allocate funds.
To do this, you need to see the big picture. In this assignment, you will write a proposal to your Chief Executive Officer outlining the following:
Using Hypertension, African Americans, and the state of Georgia as the subjects for this assignment.
- Needs assessment for your population:
- Demographics
- Social factors that may increase risk (poverty, health insurance, race/ethnicity, etc.)
- Morbidity and mortality data
- Incidence and prevalence data
- Suggested intervention program with cost analysis
- Justification and explanation for why this is the most appropriate intervention for the target population
2
Hypertension of African Americans in Georgia
Student’s name
Institutional affiliation
Course name
Professor’s name
Due date
Risk Factors for Hypertension in African American Communities
Hypertension or high blood pressure is one of the diseases of concern in African American communities in Georgia. Risk factors contributing to the prevalence of this condition are genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, socioeconomic factors, and chronic stress (Ko et al., 2021). Abnormalities in the gene known as ARMC5 may be linked to high blood pressure in blacks. Lifestyle choices such as poor diet and lack of physical activity increase the risk of developing high blood pressure. Many people in the communities consume diets high in sodium and low in fruits and vegetables, thus increasing hypertension. Income status is normally negatively associated with inadequate health care facilities and healthy diets and would thus naturally cause a higher disease rate among lower-income earning individuals. Stress caused by socio-economic factors and racism also plays a role in raising blood pressure rates.
Social Determinants of Health in African American Communities
Social determinants of health are the circumstances into which one is born, grows up, lives, works, and ages that impact their disease or illness outcomes. In African American communities across Georgia, these social determinants affect their health status. Major social determinants include socioeconomic status, which influences the quality of healthcare, education, and healthy environments in which to live. African Americans in Georgia struggle to afford good meals, regular doctor visits, and hypertension and other chronic disease medications (Ko et al., 2021). Access to health care centers and doctors is another key factor, and inadequate or late treatment might ensue. Environmental issues like living in dirty neighborhoods without recreation worsen this. Thus, lower education and health literacy hinder these people' health decisions and preventive therapy. Health literacy and education affect how well people can make health decisions and get preventive treatment.
Prevalent Diseases and Health Conditions in the Community
High blood pressure is a prevalent health conditions in our community with its incidence rates being higher among the Black race than other races (WHO, 2023). Other diseases related to this include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. These health issues are interrelated. For instance, obesity results in hypertension as well as germinating diabetes. The high prevalence of these conditions is compounded by limited access to preventive care and management resources.
Difference Between Social Determinants of Health, Health Disparities, and Health Inequities
Social determinants of health are the broader conditions that influence health outcomes: economic stability, education, social and community context, health care access, and built environment. Health disparities are differences in health outcomes among different groups, usually attributable to these social determinants (Maness et al., 2020). Health inequities refer to the differences in health outcomes viewed as unfair and avoidable from these disparities. Inequities result from system-wide issues and inequities in resources and opportunities.
Observed Health Disparities and Inequities in the Community
My community still witnesses health disparities and inequities among African American communities. The inequalities include hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which are more prevalent in this demographic than in any other population. Disparities exist in access and quality of healthcare services as African Americans usually have poor access to prompt, effective treatment. Reduced access to healthy diet and preventative treatment due to economic and educational inequalities worsens these health outcomes. Moreover, systemic racial discrimination and historical injustices have contributed to ongoing health inequities in terms of the quality and availability of care available to such communities.
Recommendations for Addressing Health Disparities and Inequities
Increased funding for community health programs focusing on preventing and treating chronic conditions, such as hypertension, can help address the condition earlier. The programs should include education regarding maintaining healthy lifestyle practices and receiving the necessary, affordable, and nutritious food (Rahimi & Nkombua, 2022). Health services can be increased through preventive services as well as routine screening. The programs can be achieved by supporting community health centers and facilitating the development of mobile clinics in less accessible parts. Additionally, implementing policies that address the social determinants of health, such as improving economic opportunities and educational attainment, can have a significant impact. Investing in programs that combat racial discrimination and promote health equity will also be essential in addressing the root causes of health disparities.
References
Ko, Y.-A., Shen, J., Kim, J. H., Topel, M., Mujahid, M., Taylor, H., Quyyumi, A., Sims, M., Vaccarino, V., Baltrus, P., & Lewis, T. (2021). Identifying neighborhood and individual resilience profiles for cardiovascular health: a cross-sectional study of blacks in the Atlanta metropolitan area. BMJ Open, 11(7), e041435. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041435
Maness, S. B., Merrell, L., Thompson, E. L., Griner, S. B., Kline, N., & Wheldon, C. (2020). Social determinants of health and health disparities: COVID-19 exposures and mortality among African American people in the United States. Public Health Reports, 136(1), 18–22. https://doi.org/10.1177/0033354920969169
Rahimi, A., & Nkombua, L. (2022). Hypertensive patients’ knowledge and practices on lifestyle modification in Extension 6, Middelburg. South African Family Practice, 64(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v64i1.5528
WHO. (2023). Hypertension Georgia 2023 country profile. Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/hypertension-geo-2023-country-profile
,
SHORTENED VERSION OF TITLE 1
HYPERTENSION 1
Hypertension Among African Americans
Unit 3 Individual Project
Carlene Baines
HCM 425
Professor Dajana Yoakley
August 12, 2024
Risk Factors for Hypertension in African American Communities
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the diseases of concern in African American communities in Georgia. Risk factors contributing to the prevalence of this condition are genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, socioeconomic factors, and chronic stress (Ko et al., 2021). Abnormalities in the gene known as ARMC5 may be linked to high blood pressure in blacks. Lifestyle choices such as poor diet and lack of physical activity increase the risk of developing high blood pressure. Many people in the communities consume diets high in sodium and low in fruits and vegetables, thus increasing hypertension. Income status is usually negatively associated with inadequate health care facilities and healthy diets and would thus naturally cause a higher disease rate among lower income earning individuals. Raising blood pressure is a result of both racism and stress caused by socioeconomic factors.
Social Determinants of Health in African American Communities
Social determinants of health are the circumstances into which one is born, grows up, lives, works, and ages that impact their disease or illness outcomes. In African American communities across Georgia, these social determinants affect their health status. Major social determinants include socioeconomic status, which influences the quality of healthcare, education, and healthy environments in which to live. African Americans living in the state of Georgia struggle to afford necessities: good meals, regular doctor visits, and hypertension and other chronic disease medications (Ko et al., 2021). Access to healthcare centers and doctors is another critical factor, and inadequate or late treatment might ensue. Environmental issues like not having access to clean water and poor air quality in unkept neighborhoods without safe, clean recreation worsen this. Thus, lower education and health literacy hinder these people's health decisions and preventive therapy. Health literacy and education affect how well people can make health decisions and get preventive treatment.
Prevalent Diseases and Health Conditions in the Community
High blood pressure is a prevalent health condition in the community, with its incidence rates being higher among the Black race than other races (WHO (World Health Organization), 2023). Other diseases related to this include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. These health issues are interrelated. For instance, obesity results in hypertension and germinating diabetes. Limited access to resources for management and preventive care exacerbates the high prevalence of these conditions.
Difference Between Social Determinants of Health, Health Disparities, and Health Inequities
Social determinants of health are the broader conditions that influence health outcomes: economic stability, education, social and community context, health care access, and built environment. Health disparities are differences in health outcomes among diverse groups, usually attributable to these social determinants (Maness et al., 2020). Health inequities refer to the differences in health outcomes viewed as unfair and avoidable from these disparities. Inequities result from system-wide issues and inequities in resources and opportunities.
Observed Health Disparities and Inequities in the Community
The community witness's health disparities and inequities among African American communities. The inequalities include hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which are more prevalent in this demographic than in any other population. Disparities exist in access and quality of healthcare services, as African Americans usually have poor access to prompt, effective treatment. Reduced access to healthy diet and preventative treatment due to economic and socioeconomic inequalities worsens these health outcomes. Moreover, systemic racial discrimination and historical injustices have contributed to ongoing health inequities in terms of the quality and availability of care available to such communities.
Recommendations for Addressing Health Disparities and Inequities
Increased funding for community health programs focusing on preventing and treating chronic conditions, such as hypertension, can help address the condition earlier. The programs should include education regarding maintaining healthy lifestyle practices and receiving the necessary, affordable, and nutritious food (Rahimi & Nkombua, 2022). Health services can be increased through preventive services as well as routine screening. Supporting community health centers and facilitating the development of mobile clinics in less accessible areas are two ways to achieve the programs. Additionally, implementing policies that address the social determinants of health, such as improving economic opportunities and educational attainment, can have a significant impact. Investing in programs that combat racial discrimination and promote health equity will also be essential in addressing the root causes of health disparities.
References
Ko, Y.-A., Shen, J., Kim, J. H., Topel, M., Mujahid, M., Taylor, H., Quyyumi, A., Sims, M., Vaccarino, V., Baltrus, P., & Lewis, T. (2021). Identifying neighborhood and individual resilience profiles for cardiovascular health: a cross-sectional study of blacks in the Atlanta metropolitan area. BMJ Open, 11(7), e041435. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041435
Maness, S. B., Merrell, L., Thompson, E. L., Griner, S. B., Kline, N., & Wheldon, C. (2020). Social determinants of health and health disparities: COVID-19 exposures and mortality among African American people in the United States. Public Health Reports, 136(1), 18–22. https://doi.org/10.1177/0033354920969169
Rahimi, A., & Nkombua, L. (2022). Hypertensive patients’ knowledge and practices on lifestyle modification in Extension 6, Middelburg. South African Family Practice, 64(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v64i1.5528
WHO. (2023). Hypertension Georgia 2023 country profile. Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/hypertension-geo-2023-country-profile
,
Epidemiology In Public Health
Student’s name
Institutional affiliation
Course name
Professor’s name
Due date
Part 1: John Snow’s Epidemiology Contribution
John Snow is among the most significant figures of the period, considered the founder of modern epidemiology. Some early works done by Dr. John Snow involved using a map of the cholera outbreak in London in 1854. Prior to the process spear-headed by Dr. John Snow, disorders such as cholera were neglected through lack of right understanding and cholera was thought to be a air-borne disease. The ideas of Dr. Snow were to take primary data and try to draw it on a graph to locate the source of the outbreak which he found was a contaminated water pump (Caplan et al., 2020). Snow’s hypothesis that cholera was waterborne further indicated by mapping cholera cases around the water pump changed the method of disease transmission and can be seen as a monumental shift in public health.
This early spatial analytic contribution is one of the core case studies in modern epidemiology, trying to describe the disease, its source, and its dissemination to prevent epidemics. Principles developed within this fledgling field have since been brought into modern times with more advanced tools and methodologies—those of geographic information systems and risk terrain modeling. These methods can analyze environmental and spatial risk variables for disease outbreaks. Epidemiology has evolved by incorporating innovative statistical models, data analysis techniques, and technology in dealing with public health challenges. Dr. Snow's work remains a historical benchmark that illustrates the strength of epidemiologic methods to transform public health practice.
Part 2: Hypertension of African Americans in Georgia
Hypertension is one of the main health risks for African Americans in Georgia. Hypertension happens when there is a lot of plaque buildup in arteries—so much that blood pushes extreme amounts of force against vessel walls. The heart propelling blood through obstructed vessels raises blood pressure. In Georgia, hypertension rates are high, and the problem tends to be more acute in large towns and cities such as Atlanta. WHO (2023) showed that the global age-standardized prevalence of hypertension for those adults aged between 30 and 79 years has risen to over 47%. The findings relate to the nation's statistics, whereby 47% of adults in the United States have hypertension. Amongst the population, African Americans experience higher incidence compared to other ethnic groups. The prevalence is caused by obvious factors, including obesity, diabetes, and stress, among others. Georgia has a high population of African Americans, and this ethnic group is more predisposed to hypertension. This increased risk is in part due to socioeconomic differences, psychosocial stress, and neighborhoods where the promotion of healthy living is not supported (Ko et al., 2021). Managing these social determinants of health is important in decreasing hypertension occurrence and enhancing cardiovascular health among African Americans in Georgia.
References
Caplan, J. M., Kennedy, L. W., & Neudecker, C. H. (2020). Cholera deaths in Soho, London, 1854: risk terrain modeling for epidemiological investigations. PLOS ONE, 15(3), e0230725. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0230725
Ko, Y.-A., Shen, J., Kim, J. H., Topel, M., Mujahid, M., Taylor, H., Quyyumi, A., Sims, M., Vaccarino, V., Baltrus, P., & Lewis, T. (2021). Identifying neighborhood and individual resilience profiles for cardiovascular health: a cross-sectional study of blacks living in the Atlanta metropolitan area. BMJ Open, 11(7), e041435. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041435
WHO. (2023). Hypertension Georgia 2023 country profile. Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/hypertension-geo-2023-country-profile
Write a 400-600 words in APA 7 format 11 pt. Calibri font., with proper in-text citations. Include two to three (2–3) scholarly references published within the last 5 years to substantiate your work. Please provide a copy of all references, A.I., and plagiarism reports.
Assignment Details:
Using the information from assignments 1–3, complete and submit OUTLINE for part 1 of the first draft of the Key Assignment.
You are the Program Manager, and you are trying to decide on the best course of action to decrease incidence and prevalence of the disease chosen in Week 1.
You must decide from the data which population is most at-risk and decide on the most appropriate intervention to which you should allocate funds. To do this, you need to see the big picture.
In this assignment, you will create outline for proposal to your Chief Executive Officer outlining the following:
**Using Hypertension, African Americans, and the state of Georgia as the subjects for this assignment. ***
- History of the disease (show trends and data)
- Needs assessment for your population:
- Demographics
- Social factors that may increase risk (poverty, health insurance, race/ethnicity, etc.)
- Morbidity and mortality data
- Incidence and prevalence data
- Suggested intervention program with cost analysis
- Justification and explanation for why this is the most appropriate intervention for the target population
SHORTENED VERSION OF TITLE 1
HYPERTENSION 1
Hypertension Among African Americans
Unit 3 Individual Project
Carlene Baines
HCM 425
Professor Dajana Yoakley
August 12, 2024
Risk Factors for Hypertension in African American Communities
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the diseases of concern in African American communities in Georgia. Risk factors contributing to the prevalence of this condition are genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, socioeconomic factors, and chronic stress (Ko et al., 2021). Abnormalities in the gene known as ARMC5 may be linked to high blood pressure in blacks. Lifestyle choices such as poor diet and lack of physical activity increase the risk of developing high blood pressure. Many people in the communities consume diets high in sodium and low in fruits and vegetables, thus increasing hypertension. Income status is usually negatively associated with inadequate health care facilities and healthy diets and would thus naturally cause a higher disease rate among lower income earning individuals. Raising blood pressure is a result of both racism and stress caused by socioeconomic factors.
Social Determinants of Health in African American Communities
Social determinants of health are the circumstances into which one is born, grows up, lives, works, and ages that impact their disease or illness outcomes. In African American communities across Georgia, these social determinants affect their health status. Major social determinants include socioeconomic status, which influences the quality of healthcare, education, and healthy environments in which to live. African Americans living in the state of Georgia struggle to afford necessities: good meals, regular doctor visits, and hypertension and other chronic disease medications (Ko et al., 2021). Access to healthcare centers and doctors is another critical factor, and inadequate or late treatment might ensue. Environmental issues like not having access to clean water and poor air quality in unkept neighborhoods without safe, clean recreation worsen this. Thus, lower education and health literacy hinder these people's health decisions and preventive therapy. Health literacy and education affect how well people can make health decisions and get preventive treatment.
Prevalent Diseases and Health Conditions in the Community
High blood pressure is a prevalent health condition in the community, with its incidence rates being higher among the Black race than other races (WHO (World Health Organization), 2023). Other diseases related to this include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. These health issues are interrelated. For instance, obesity results in hypertension and germinating diabetes. Limited access to resources for management and preventive care exacerbates the high prevalence of these conditions.
Difference Between Social Determinants of Health, Health Disparities, and Health Inequities
Social determinants of health are the broader conditions that influence health outcomes: economic stability, education, social and community context, health care access, and built environment. Health disparities are differences in health outcomes among diverse groups, usually attributable to these social determinants (Maness et al., 2020). Health inequities refer to the differences in health outcomes viewed as unfair and avoidable from these disparities. Inequities result from system-wide issues and inequities in resources and opportunities.
Observed Health Disparities and Inequities in the Community
The community witness's health disparities and inequities among African American communities. The inequalities include hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which are more prevalent in this demographic than in any other population. Disparities exist in access and quality of healthcare services, as African Americans usually have poor access to prompt, effective treatment. Reduced access to healthy diet and preventative treatment due to economic and socioeconomic inequalities worsens these health outcomes. Moreover, systemic racial discrimination and historical injustices have contributed to ongoing health inequities in terms of the quality and availability of care available to such communities.
Recommendations for Addressing Health Disparities and Inequities
Increased funding for community health programs focusing on preventing and treating chronic conditions, such as hypertension, can help address the condition earlier. The programs should include education regarding maintaining healthy lifestyle practices and receiving the necessary, affordable, and nutritious food (Rahimi & Nkombua, 2022). Health services can be increased through preventive services as well as routine screening. Supporting community health centers and facilitating the development of mobile clinics in less accessible areas are two ways to achieve the programs. Additionally, implementing policies that address the social determinants of health, such as improving economic opportunities and educational attainment, can have a significant impact. Investing in programs that combat racial discrimination and promote health equity will also be essential in addressing the root causes of health disparities.
References
Ko, Y.-A., Shen, J., Kim, J. H., Topel, M., Mujahid, M., Taylor, H., Quyyumi, A., Sims, M., Vaccarino, V., Baltrus, P., & Lewis, T. (2021). Identifying neighborhood and individual resilience profiles for cardiovascular health: a cross-sectional study of blacks in the Atlanta metropolitan area. BMJ Open, 11(7), e041435. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041435
Maness, S. B., Merrell, L., Thompson, E. L., Griner, S. B., Kline, N., & Wheldon, C. (2020). Social determinants of health and health disparities: COVID-19 exposures and mortality among African American people in the United States. Public Health Reports, 136(1), 18–22. https://doi.org/10.1177/0033354920969169
Rahimi, A., & Nkombua, L. (2022). Hypertensive patients’ knowledge and practices on lifestyle modification in Extension 6, Middelburg. South African Family Practice, 64(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v64i1.5528
WHO. (2023). Hypertension Georgia 2023 country profile. Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/hypertension-geo-2023-country-profile
,
SHORTENED VERSION OF TITLE 1
HYPERTENSION 1
Hypertension Among African Americans
Unit 3 Individual Project
Carlene Baines
HCM 425
Professor Dajana Yoakley
August 12, 2024
Risk Factors for Hypertension in African American Communities
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the diseases of concern in African American communities in Georgia. Risk factors contributing to the prevalence of this condition are genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, socioeconomic factors, and chronic stress (Ko et al., 2021). Abnormalities in the gene known as ARMC5 may be linked to high blood pressure in blacks. Lifestyle choices such as poor diet and lack of physical activity increase the risk of developing high blood pressure. Many people in the communities consume diets high in sodium and low in fruits and vegetables, thus increasing hypertension. Income status is usually negatively associated with inadequate health care facilities and healthy diets and would thus naturally cause a higher disease rate among lower income earning individuals. Raising blood pressure is a result of both racism and stress caused by socioeconomic factors.
Social Determinants of Health in African American Communities
Social determinants of health are the circumstances into which one is born, grows up, lives, works, and ages that impact their disease or illness outcomes. In African American communities across Georgia, these social determinants affect their health status. Major social determinants include socioeconomic status, which influences the quality of healthcare, education, and healthy environments in which to live. African Americans living in the state of Georgia struggle to afford necessities: good meals, regular doctor visits, and hypertension and other chronic disease medications (Ko et al., 2021). Access to healthcare centers and doctors is another critical factor, and inadequate or late treatment might ensue. Environmental issues like not having access to clean water and poor air quality in unkept neighborhoods without safe, clean recreation worsen this. Thus, lower education and health literacy hinder these people's health decisions and preventive therapy. Health literacy and education affect how well people can make health decisions and get preventive treatment.
Prevalent Diseases and Health Conditions in the Community
High blood pressure is a prevalent health condition in the community, with its incidence rates being higher among the Black race than other races (WHO (World Health Organization), 2023). Other diseases related to this include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. These health issues are interrelated. For instance, obesity results in hypertension and germinating diabetes. Limited access to resources for management and preventive care exacerbates the high prevalence of these conditions.
Difference Between Social Determinants of Health, Health Disparities, and Health Inequities
Social determinants of health are the broader conditions that influence health outcomes: economic stability, education, social and community context, health care access, and built environment. Health disparities are differences in health outcomes among diverse groups, usually attributable to these social determinants (Maness et al., 2020). Health inequities refer to the differences in health outcomes viewed as unfair and avoidable from these disparities. Inequities result from system-wide issues and inequities in resources and opportunities.
Observed Health Disparities and Inequities in the Community
The community witness's health disparities and inequities among African American communities. The inequalities include hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which are more prevalent in this demographic than in any other population. Disparities exist in access and quality of healthcare services, as African Americans usually have poor access to prompt, effective treatment. Reduced access to healthy diet and preventative treatment due to economic and socioeconomic inequalities worsens these health outcomes. Moreover, systemic racial discrimination and historical injustices have contributed to ongoing health inequities in terms of the quality and availability of care available to such communities.
Recommendations for Addressing Health Disparities and Inequities
Increased funding for community health programs focusing on preventing and treating chronic conditions, such as hypertension, can help address the condition earlier. The programs should include education regarding maintaining healthy lifestyle practices and receiving the necessary, affordable, and nutritious food (Rahimi & Nkombua, 2022). Health services can be increased through preventive services as well as routine screening. Supporting community health centers and facilitating the development of mobile clinics in less accessible areas are two ways to achieve the programs. Additionally, implementing policies that address the social determinants of health, such as improving economic opportunities and educational attainment, can have a significant impact. Investing in programs that combat racial discrimination and promote health equity will also be essential in addressing the root causes of health disparities.
References
Ko, Y.-A., Shen, J., Kim, J. H., Topel, M., Mujahid, M., Taylor, H., Quyyumi, A., Sims, M., Vaccarino, V., Baltrus, P., & Lewis, T. (2021). Identifying neighborhood and individual resilience profiles for cardiovascular health: a cross-sectional study of blacks in the Atlanta metropolitan area. BMJ Open, 11(7), e041435. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041435
Maness, S. B., Merrell, L., Thompson, E. L., Griner, S. B., Kline, N., & Wheldon, C. (2020). Social determinants of health and health disparities: COVID-19 exposures and mortality among African American people in the United States. Public Health Reports, 136(1), 18–22. https://doi.org/10.1177/0033354920969169
Rahimi, A., & Nkombua, L. (2022). Hypertensive patients’ knowledge and practices on lifestyle modification in Extension 6, Middelburg. South African Family Practice, 64(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v64i1.5528
WHO. (2023). Hypertension Georgia 2023 country profile. Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/hypertension-geo-2023-country-profile
,
2
Hypertension of African Americans in Georgia
Student’s name
Institutional affiliation
Course name
Professor’s name
Due date
Risk Factors for Hypertension in African American Communities
Hypertension or high blood pressure is one of the diseases of concern in African American communities in Georgia. Risk factors contributing to the prevalence of this condition are genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, socioeconomic factors, and chronic stress (Ko et al., 2021). Abnormalities in the gene known as ARMC5 may be linked to high blood pressure in blacks. Lifestyle choices such as poor diet and lack of physical activity increase the risk of developing high blood pressure. Many people in the communities consume diets high in sodium and low in fruits and vegetables, thus increasing hypertension. Income status is normally negatively associated with inadequate health care facilities and healthy diets and would thus naturally cause a higher disease rate among lower-income earning individuals. Stress caused by socio-economic factors and racism also plays a role in raising blood pressure rates.
Social Determinants of Health in African American Communities
Social determinants of health are the circumstances into which one is born, grows up, lives, works, and ages that impact their disease or illness outcomes. In African American communities across Georgia, these social determinants affect their health status. Major social determinants include socioeconomic status, which influences the quality of healthcare, education, and healthy environments in which to live. African Americans in Georgia struggle to afford good meals, regular doctor visits, and hypertension and other chronic disease medications (Ko et al., 2021). Access to health care centers and doctors is another key factor, and inadequate or late treatment might ensue. Environmental issues like living in dirty neighborhoods without recreation worsen this. Thus, lower education and health literacy hinder these people' health decisions and preventive therapy. Health literacy and education affect how well people can make health decisions and get preventive treatment.
Prevalent Diseases and Health Conditions in the Community
High blood pressure is a prevalent health conditions in our community with its incidence rates being higher among the Black race than other races (WHO, 2023). Other diseases related to this include diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. These health issues are interrelated. For instance, obesity results in hypertension as well as germinating diabetes. The high prevalence of these conditions is compounded by limited access to preventive care and management resources.
Difference Between Social Determinants of Health, Health Disparities, and Health Inequities
Social determinants of health are the broader conditions that influence health outcomes: economic stability, education, social and community context, health care access, and built environment. Health disparities are differences in health outcomes among different groups, usually attributable to these social determinants (Maness et al., 2020). Health inequities refer to the differences in health outcomes viewed as unfair and avoidable from these disparities. Inequities result from system-wide issues and inequities in resources and opportunities.
Observed Health Disparities and Inequities in the Community
My community still witnesses health disparities and inequities among African American communities. The inequalities include hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, which are more prevalent in this demographic than in any other population. Disparities exist in access and quality of healthcare services as African Americans usually have poor access to prompt, effective treatment. Reduced access to healthy diet and preventative treatment due to economic and educational inequalities worsens these health outcomes. Moreover, systemic racial discrimination and historical injustices have contributed to ongoing health inequities in terms of the quality and availability of care available to such communities.
Recommendations for Addressing Health Disparities and Inequities
Increased funding for community health programs focusing on preventing and treating chronic conditions, such as hypertension, can help address the condition earlier. The programs should include education regarding maintaining healthy lifestyle practices and receiving the necessary, affordable, and nutritious food (Rahimi & Nkombua, 2022). Health services can be increased through preventive services as well as routine screening. The programs can be achieved by supporting community health centers and facilitating the development of mobile clinics in less accessible parts. Additionally, implementing policies that address the social determinants of health, such as improving economic opportunities and educational attainment, can have a significant impact. Investing in programs that combat racial discrimination and promote health equity will also be essential in addressing the root causes of health disparities.
References
Ko, Y.-A., Shen, J., Kim, J. H., Topel, M., Mujahid, M., Taylor, H., Quyyumi, A., Sims, M., Vaccarino, V., Baltrus, P., & Lewis, T. (2021). Identifying neighborhood and individual resilience profiles for cardiovascular health: a cross-sectional study of blacks in the Atlanta metropolitan area. BMJ Open, 11(7), e041435. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041435
Maness, S. B., Merrell, L., Thompson, E. L., Griner, S. B., Kline, N., & Wheldon, C. (2020). Social determinants of health and health disparities: COVID-19 exposures and mortality among African American people in the United States. Public Health Reports, 136(1), 18–22. https://doi.org/10.1177/0033354920969169
Rahimi, A., & Nkombua, L. (2022). Hypertensive patients’ knowledge and practices on lifestyle modification in Extension 6, Middelburg. South African Family Practice, 64(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v64i1.5528
WHO. (2023). Hypertension Georgia 2023 country profile. Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/hypertension-geo-2023-country-profile
