According to the American Heart Association, Black women have the highest rate of obesity at 57.9%. In addition, Black women also have the highest rate of high blood pressure at 58.4%. Even with challenges, African American health shows hope for improvement.

MD-licensed, board-certified family physician and GoodRx medical editor Dr. Karla Robinson believes that chronic stress, food deserts, environmental and systemic racism, limited access to affordable healthcare, nutritious food options, and culturally competent healthcare professionals create challenging conditions.

“For example, Black communities often lack access to cardiologists. GoodRx Research found that many Black communities are located in what we call ‘cardiology deserts’ —areas where you may have to travel 80+ miles just to see a heart specialist,” she said.

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states the five core social determinants of health include culture and societal values, socioeconomic status, access to public health care, self-management, and overall biological condition.

The Black Wall Street Times interviewed Chicago native Dr. Robinson about the power of culturally informed health decisions, preventive health, and tips for navigating the healthcare system.