AND BLACK AMERICA

ASTHMA AND ALLERGIES - DISPARITIES THAT CAN'T BE IGNORED

Springtime brings blooming flowers—and for many in our community, worsening asthma and allergy symptoms. Black Americans, particularly children, are disproportionately affected by asthma, with Black children being five times more likely to be hospitalized and seven times more likely to die from asthma-related complications than white children.

MATERNAL MORTALITY DECLINES OVERALL, BUT DISPARITIES PERSIST FOR BLACK WOMEN

According to a February 2025 report by the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, while overall maternal mortality rates in the U.S. have declined, Black women continue to face alarming disparities in maternal health outcomes. The report emphasizes the urgent need for policymakers to expand access to culturally competent care and address systemic inequities affecting Black mothers.

CHRONIC STRESS - THE SILENT EPIDEMIC

Chronic stress remains a significant health concern for Black Americans, contributing to various adverse health outcomes. While specific recent articles on this topic are limited, ongoing research continues to highlight the impact of systemic racism, economic disparities, and daily microaggressions on the mental and physical health of Black individuals.​

ADDRESSING HEALTH DISPARITIES THROUGH PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining health and preventing chronic diseases. However, Black communities often face barriers such as limited access to safe recreational spaces and environmental challenges. A recent report highlights that environmental risks, including exposure to extreme heat and poor air quality, disproportionately affect Black communities, contributing to higher rates of health issues.

STEP INTO WELLNESS: MOVE MORE, LIVE MORE

Physical activity is one of the most powerful tools we have to combat chronic illness—and it’s free. April is Move More Month, and National Walking Day on April 2 is the perfect time to lace up and get moving.

Walking just 30 minutes a day can reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even depression. Yet, safe and accessible walking environments are not always available in Black communities. AAWP encourages advocacy for safer neighborhoods, parks, and pedestrian infrastructure, while also promoting community walks, fitness groups, and active living initiatives.

This month, let’s encourage one another to move more, feel better, and take control of our health—one step at a time.

VACCINES SAVE LIVES - LET'S CLOSE THE GAP IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Sponsored by Merck

Vaccines are one of the most powerful tools we have to protect children and adults from preventable diseases. Yet, in the African American community, barriers to immunization continue to contribute to significant health disparities.



According to the CDC, vaccination rates among Black children are 6–10% lower than the national average for key childhood vaccines such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis). Among adults, the gaps are even more striking—flu and pneumonia vaccination rates are up to 20% lower than those of white adults. These differences lead to higher rates of complications, hospitalizations, and preventable deaths.

UPCOMING AAN WEBINARS THIS QUARTER

The Allergy & Asthma Network (AAN) is hosting a series of informative webinars designed to educate both patients and healthcare professionals on managing allergies, asthma, and related conditions. These sessions provide valuable insights from leading experts in the field. Here are some upcoming webinars you won't want to miss:​

ASTHMA COACHING BENEFITS

Asthma Management Coach Leandra Tonweber presented a poster at ACAAI’s annual meeting in October of an Allergy & Asthma Network study on virtual asthma coaching. The study showed how the use of a self-management app as part of virtual asthma coaching can significantly improve asthma control.