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DESPITE medical advances and new technology, the average life expectancy for African-Americans at birth is six years less than for Whites. This difference is reflective in virtually every aspect of health care, when comparing the treatment of Blacks versus Whites. High rates of heart attack, obesity, cancer, diabetes, HIV and other disorders continue to plague our community. For a society that touts itself as democratic and equal, this is a shameful and intolerable disparity.

A major report by the Institute of Medicine ("Unequal Treatment: Confronting Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Healthcare") provides substantial documentation that minorities experience lower quality medical care, which leads to misdiagnosis, improper treatment, more disease and premature death.

Why is there such disparity in the health status for Blacks and other people of color as compared to Whites? Clearly, the dual factors of race and economics play a major role in the medical gaps evidenced throughout our nation.

However, while these factors must not be overlooked or minimized, and must be continually addressed on all fronts, there is another underlying cause for the disparity--lack of preventive care.

Preventive measures, such as moderate walking three times a week, can significantly move people toward a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, there are other proven measures that can detect disease or give a "heads up" on potential problems.

So I ask you to consider the following questions: When was the last time you had a thorough physical? If you are female and 35 years of age, do you get an annual mammogram and Pap smear? If you are male, do you receive regular screenings for prostate cancer (which has a high incidence among African American men)? Do you closely monitor your cholesterol level and blood pressure? Do you even know what your recommended cholesterol level and blood pressure should be? Do you exercise on a regular basis? Have you reduced the amount of pork, fat, salt and sugar in your diet? Are you a nonsmoker? If you drink, do you do so in moderation? Are you honest with your doctor about your medical concerns?

At the National Medical Association, we recognize that as part of the medical community, we must work with others to do a better job in promoting the message of prevention. We must move aggressively to work with medical partners and community organizations to emphasize the importance of preventive care and early intervention.

# posted by Medical Information : 4:09 AM