Minority Health
NARROWING THE
GAP
THE ISSUE
There is a wide gap between the health status of racial and ethnic minority populations and that of Whites in the U.S. Many say this is because minority communities deny the early warning signs of diseases and have less access to high-quality health services. In addition, many believe there are significant institutional and cultural barriers that keep minority populations from getting adequate health care. It's hard, for example, for a person to maintain a healthy diet, take preventative measures against disease, and regularly see a doctor when he/she cannot afford to do so. To solve this problem, we need to address questions like: Is the government doing enough to provide minority populations with the relevant health information they need? And: Is there adequate leadership, organization, collaboration and advocacy in communities of color?
Health Watch, a non-profit organization, was created by Dr. Norma J. Goodwin, M.D. to improve the health and longevity of minority populations. In association with other organizations Health Watch has reached the minority communities with pamphlets, videos, discussion groups and activities that promote healthier lifestyles. The programs and information are designed to be culturally sensitive to minority populations, providing them with tangible solutions to their health needs. Health Watch offers programs specifically for teens to prevent teen pregnancy, the spread of STDs, and teen violence. It also focuses on women, using videos and other methods to teach them about their bodies and how to protect themselves against unwanted pregnancies and HIV/AIDS.
FACTS AND STATS:
FROM DR. NORMA J. GOODMIN, M.D., FOUNDER OF HEALTH WATCH
"The most important accomplishment is the thousands of individuals who we've been able to reach and influence and have them somehow become more aware of their health status and to modify lifestyles and behavior to make a change."
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