Social determinants of health among African–American men

The health disparities among African–American men are staggering when compared to other racial, ethnic, and gender groups in the United States. While there have been considerable efforts to eliminate health disparities in recent years, disparity elimination efforts have often focused on changing health behavior with regard to African–American men, and grave health disparities continue to exist among this population. This article argues that a consideration of the social determinants of health among African– American men is long overdue. It highlights the serious health disparities among this population, and considers the social determinants of health of African–American men in relation to health status, health behavior, and health care. Finally, suggestions are offered for addressing the social determinants of health among African–American men. 2010 WPMH GmbH. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. Introduction: the importance of social determinants of health among African–American men While there have been significant efforts in recent years to eliminate health disparities [1], serious disparities continue to exist especially with regard to African–American men who continue to suffer disproportionately from poor health when compared to other racial, ethnic, and gender groups in the United States (US). Research and programs relating to African– American men’s health often focus on individual health behavior (e.g. diet, exercise, increasing doctors visits) [2]. While health behavior determines health to some extent, it is important to recognize that social and environmental factors place minorities such as African–American men at a significant disadvantage with regard to health and disease; African–American men may be exposed to numerous difficult life experiences (e.g. reduced access to quality education, reduced access to employment, disproportionate rates of incarceration) experienced less often by more advantaged groups [3]. In addition, Afriby Elsevier Ireland Ltd. can–American men are among the most underserved populations in the US with regard to access to quality health services and mental health services, which similarly contributes to their poor health outcomes [4]. As such, health behavior alone does not fully explain the significant health disparities among African– American men [2]. Accordingly, we would like to draw attention to the social determinants of health among African–American men. We also wish to highlight the necessity for research, programs, and policies that influence the social determinants of health and improve health equity among this and other disadvantaged groups. We will begin by highlighting the staggering inequalities in health among African–American men. This will be followed by a consideration of the social determinants of health affecting this population: the social determinants of health status, the social determinants of health behavior, and the social determinants of health care. Finally, we propose recommendations for tackling the social determinants of health among African–American men. These consist of suggestions for research and programs that address the social Vol. 7, No. 1, pp. 11–19, March 2010 11