Young man are often assumed to be in good health. However, health data demonstrate that young men, particularly those in the inner city and young men of color, suffer a disproportionate burden of preventable disease. To better understand this inequity, the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) undertook a study of the health of young men in Boston. The analysis utilized Boston specific measures of morbidity and mortality and assessed differences by age, race/ethnicity and neighborhood. Major causes of morbidity among males 15-35 included injury, psychotic disorders and substance abuse and HIV. All cause mortality rates were higher for young black males and males in lower income neighborhoods. Suicide mortality rates were highest for young white males and substance abuse mortality rates were highest for Latino males. Analysis of sociodemographic data demonstrated that young men of color and lower income men are less likely to have health insurance and more likely to face other barriers to health care access. As a result of the study, a Young Men’s Health Initiative was begun at BPHC to address the disproportionate burden of preventable disease among inner city young men. The components of the Initiative include: dissemination of the young men’s health study to community stakeholders; health forums to facilitate information exchange with organizations serving young men; and development of targeted outreach programs to reach the most vulnerable young men. The presentation will highlight the components of a public health effort to assess and address the needs of urban young men.
Learning Objectives: This session will help participants: 1)Understand the health needs of young urban men 2)Formulate plans for addressing preventable health needs in this population 3)Replicate the analysis and reponse in their own cities
Keywords: Prevention, Youth
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.