BLACK HEALTH DISPARITIES

Health disparities refer to differences in health outcomes and access to healthcare among different populations. Black health disparities specifically highlight the unequal health outcomes and healthcare access experienced by Black or African American individuals compared to other racial or ethnic groups. These disparities can manifest in various ways and are influenced by a combination of social, economic, environmental, and systemic factors.


In many cases, Black communities in the United States, including those in Columbus, have faced disproportionate health disparities. Some contributing factors include:


  1. Chronic Diseases: Black communities often experience higher rates of chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. These disparities may be linked to factors such as genetics, socio-economic status, and healthcare access.
  2. Maternal and Infant Health: Black women face higher rates of maternal mortality and morbidity compared to their white counterparts. Additionally, there are disparities in infant mortality rates, with Black infants having a higher likelihood of not surviving the first year of life.
  3. Cancer: Black individuals may have higher incidence rates of certain cancers and lower survival rates. Factors contributing to these disparities include genetics, socio-economic factors, and unequal access to cancer screening and treatment.
  4. Mental Health: There are disparities in mental health outcomes, with Black individuals often facing challenges in accessing mental health services, stigma, and cultural barriers. This can contribute to disparities in the prevalence and management of mental health conditions.
  5. Healthcare Access: Black communities may experience barriers to accessing quality healthcare, including a lack of insurance, transportation issues, and a shortage of healthcare facilities in their neighborhoods.
  6. Environmental Justice: Black communities are often disproportionately affected by environmental factors such as pollution, which can contribute to health issues.
  7. Socio-Economic Factors: Economic disparities, including income and education levels, play a significant role in health disparities. Black individuals may face socio-economic challenges that impact their ability to access healthcare services and adopt healthy

To address health disparities, Eta Nu Nu has various initiatives and have partnered with community organizations to address the following issues.


Breast Cancer - Research has shown that African American women in the United States face some unique challenges when it comes to breast cancer. African American women are more likely to be diagnosed with a more aggressive form of breast cancer, known as triple-negative breast cancer. This type of cancer is less responsive to certain hormonal therapies, making treatment more challenging. Each year, Eta Nu Nu hosts our SURVIVORSHIP: A Celebration of Life Beyond the Struggle." This event celebrates and support women of color who were diagnosed with breast cancer and has undergone a single or double mastectomy, or lumpectomy surgery. We gift two free mastectomy bras which including sizing, fitting, and education. We also pamper our guests with massages, nail polishing, flowers, gift cards, refreshments, and other treats.  


Prostate Cancer - African American men have a higher incidence of prostate cancer compared to men of other racial and ethnic groups. Additionally, they are more likely to be diagnosed with more advanced and aggressive forms of the disease. Our "Man P.L.E.A.S.E., Check Yourself" event invites men out for a fun and uplifting day as we raise awareness around prostate cancer. In support of improving men’s health, Eta Nu Nu along with our wonderful sponsors provides entertainment, free screenings, gift bags, hors d'oeuvres to our guests.


Organ Donation - African Americans, like many other minority groups, face disparities in organ donation and transplantation. This can be attributed to a variety of factors, including a shortage of organs from donors of similar racial and ethnic backgrounds. Eta Nu Nu has partnered with Lifeline of Ohio to raise awareness on the need for African Americans to sign up to become organ donors.​


Kidney Health - African Americans face a higher risk of developing kidney problems compared to some other racial and ethnic groups. Several factors contribute to this increased risk, and it's important for individuals and healthcare providers to be aware of these factors to promote kidney health in the African American community. Our Chapter partners with the American Kidney Foundation to raise awareness around kidney health and kidney donation.


HIV/AIDS - HIV/AIDS has disproportionately affected African Americans in the United States. The impact of HIV/AIDS on this community is influenced by various social, economic, and healthcare factors. Eta Nu Nu partners with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation to fight the stigma of HIV/AIDS within the Black community, promote getting tested and breakdown other barriers that may exist.​​


Charles R. Drew Blood Drive - More than 100,000 individuals in the U.S. suffer from sickle cell disease – an enduring and often invisible condition. The disease disproportionately affects individuals of African descent, many of whom rely on routine blood transfusions as an essential treatment to prevent life-threatening complications. According to the American Red Cross, ​patients with sickle cell disease may rely on regular blood transfusions throughout their lives to prevent sickle cell complications such as organ and tissue damage, severe pain, and strokes. Unfortunately, frequent transfusions can make finding compatible blood types more difficult when patients develop an immune response against blood from donors that is not closely matched to the recipient. These antibodies can lead to severe complications. One in 3 African American blood donors are a match for people with sickle cell disease. Each year, Eta Nu Nu hosts our Charles R. Drew blood drive to collect much needed blood donations.


The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center - We have partnered with the OSU Wexner Medical Center to raise awareness on Colorectal Cancer and the impact of smoking menthol cigarettes.



High blood pressure is common in 12% vs. 10% of blacks vs. whites aged 18-34 years, respectively. It is common in 33% vs. 22% of those aged 35-49 years, respectively.

Black women have a maternal mortality rate of 2.9 times that of White women in the United States

Diabetes is common in 10% of blacks aged 35-49 compared to 6% of whites.​