Black History Month
During Black History Month, the HHS Office of Minority Health (OMH) will join partners in reflecting on the achievements of African Americans while promoting pathways to a healthier future with better health outcomes. During February, OMH will focus on the importance of daily physical activity and living an active and healthy lifestyle. Additionally, OMH will raise awareness about the impact of heart disease within the African American community.
The American Heart Association has determined that more than half of all African American adults suffer from some form of cardiovascular disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- African Americans ages 35-64 years are 50% more likely to have high blood pressure than whites.
- African American women have the highest rates of being overweight or obese compared to other groups in the U.S.
- In 2015, African Americans were 20% less likely to engage in active physical activity as non-Hispanic whites.
Research shows significant health benefits of an active and healthy lifestyle that incorporates even small amounts of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity throughout the day.
