Perspectives on African American Men's Health in the United States

The average life expectancy of African American males lags significantly behind that of other U.S. demographic groups. The 2010 U.S. Census reports average life expectancies as: Caucasian females 80.3 years, Caucasian males 76.5 years, African American females 77.2 years and African American males 70.2 years. However, lifestyle factors greatly impact mortality and morbidity outcomes. African American men are poorly connected to preventive healthcare owing to limited access, lack of health insurance, distrust of healthcare, stoic attitudes towards sickness and pain, inappropriate self-reliance, poor health literacy, and insufficient health awareness. Lack of physical activity is prevalent due to modern sedentary jobs, limited access to recreational facilities, unsafe neighborhoods and poorly maintained environments. Diets high in calories, animal fat, sodium and refined products contribute to African American males suffering higher rates of fatal and premature heart disease than other U.S. demographic groups. African American males display higher mortality from lung cancer in spite of lower tobacco use. Substance use including alcohol is strongly associated HIV disease, hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections. The term "John Henryism" has been coined to describe African American males who expend extreme and potentially self-damaging effort to overcome societal adversity. Disproportionate rates of incarceration, economic disenfranchisement and unaddressed mental health issues contribute to disproportionately high rates of high-risk behavior, homicide and suicide among African American males. However, the association of these adverse health outcomes with modifiable lifestyle factors presents substantial opportunity for disease prevention through education and other interventions aimed at promoting and sustaining healthier lifestyles and behaviors.