Calling All People of Color, May I have A Word?

The entire country has been affected by COVID-19; however, early research has shown that people of color who are already more susceptible to chronic illnesses.  Such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and hypertension, appear to contract the virus and die at a much higher rate than other segments of the population in the U.S.

“In Michigan, where the state’s population is 14% black, African Americans made up 35% of cases and 40% of deaths.”

“In Chicago, a recent report found that 70 percent of people who died from COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, are black — even though the city’s population is just 30 percent black.”

You must follow the CDC recommendations, such as disinfecting surfaces, sheltering-in-place, washing your hands for at least 20 seconds, and wearing a cloth mask when do have to go out in public. 

It is also time to get serious about your health and begin a proactive attack on the chronic illnesses that plague our communities.  We can do that one family at a time. How? I am not suggesting you go on a Biggest Loser type exercise and diet plan.  Just taking these four simple steps could improve your health and give you more control.

1. Exercise 30 minutes per day
2. Eat a diet low in sodium and saturated fat
3. Quit smoking
4. Know your family’s health history

Yes!  Health care in the United States is historically entwined in issues of race and politics.   If this virus has shown us nothing else, it is this; it’s time for us as people of color to take our health into our own hands and make changes that could prolong our lives and those of our families. 

Speaking as someone who has already lost two grandmothers, a father, a mother, and a younger brother to chronic illnesses, I don’t want another family to suffer this type of devastating loss.  Ultimately, you must change for yourself, what will happen to your family if you die before your time.  Consider COVID-19 your wake-up call!

Wishing You Peace and Love,

Renee

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