Background: African American men live shorter lives and are at greater risk of death from many of the leading causes compared to other racial/ethnic or gender groups. Methods: Participatory action research methods were used to identify health-related needs and assets of African American men and their communities in Southeast Raleigh, a region of 65,000 that is approximately 75% African American. A community coalition of over 40 members including health and social services agencies, faith communities, the media, local business owners, and community activists was identified to guide the assessment process. Five focus groups, with a total of 53 participants, were conducted over a three month period. Four groups were composed entirely of African American men from a variety of community settings-a substance abuse treatment center, a public housing community, a local Baptist church, and a homeless shelter. A focus group consisting entirely of African American women took place at another Baptist church. Focus groups were analyzed to identify major themes. Results: Analysis of focus groups revealed several important findings. All groups were very supportive of an effort to target the health of African American men. Major health concerns included heart disease, cancer, HIV/AIDS, availability of quality health information, health care, screening, and early detection. However, socioeconomic factors such as violence, education, employment, homelessness, drug abuse, poverty, uninsured status, and perceived racism were often considered to be of greater importance. Respondents supported interventions that bring culturally appropriate services and information to their communities in combination with opportunities for men to interact socially.
Learning Objectives: Participants will learn about the health of African American men in the urban south by: 1)Identifying major health issues and social determinants of health, 2) Identifying community assets, 3) Identifying potential strategies to improve their health
Keywords: Male Health, Ethnic Minorities
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Community Health Scholar Program, UNC School of PUblic Health, Dept. of Health Behavior and Health Education; Strengthening the Black Family, Inc., Raleigh, NC
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.