Last Updated on November 1, 2024 by Successful Black Parenting Staff

As a parent, your love and protection are your child’s first line of defense. However, that fierce instinct must extend beyond the home regarding healthcare. For Black families, steering the complexities of children’s healthcare can be even more challenging, with stark health disparities painting a sobering picture. 

Infant mortality rates are tragically higher, and asthma and obesity affect Black children disproportionately.  This guide will discuss how to take care of your child’s health. We’ll delve into the unspoken biases, cultural barriers, and specific health concerns that Black families face. 

Understanding Your Child’s Healthcare Challenges

Unconscious biases, deeply ingrained in society, can subtly influence medical decisions, leading to disparities in treatment and outcomes for Black families. A study reveals consistent patterns of unequal treatment across various pediatric specialties, affecting children from minority ethnic groups compared to white children. These children receive poorer healthcare services despite studies accounting for socioeconomic factors and clinical characteristics.

Cultural nuances can further complicate the healthcare journey. Different communication styles, beliefs, and historical mistrust of the medical system can hinder communication and trust between Black families and doctors. Bridging these gaps is crucial to ensure that every child receives respectful, understanding, and culturally sensitive care.

Health Concerns Affecting Black Children

Beyond these systemic challenges, Black children are disproportionately affected by specific health concerns. According to the CDC, Black people have a lower 5-year cancer survival rate than their white counterparts. They are more likely to be diagnosed with breast, lung, and colorectal cancer. 

Sickle cell disease, a painful and often debilitating blood disorder, primarily affects individuals of African descent. This disease affects over 100,000 Americans, and one in 13 Black American babies are born with sickle cell trait. Moreover, around one in 365 Black American babies are born with this disease. 

Mental health challenges, often exacerbated by societal pressures and limited access to care, also disproportionately affect Black youth. A recent study highlights numerous factors affecting the mental health of Black youth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Black children and adults faced online schooling challenges, financial burdens, police brutality, and more. 

Toxic Exposure Risks

Additionally, research by Harvard School found that a higher number of Black residents in Boston, MA, are exposed to PFAS chemicals. This is linked to the disproportionate placement of PFAS pollution sources near these communities. 

PFAS detection increased with the number of nearby PFAS pollution sources, such as industrial facilities, military fire training areas, and airports. A higher proportion of people of color residing in these areas are served by the contaminated water system.

PFAS chemicals are linked to development issues in children, cognitive problems, and several other chronic diseases like cancer. A higher proportion of people of color residing in these areas are at a higher risk of PFAS exposure. This underscores how environmental injustice compounds the health challenges Black communities already face.

The connection between PFAS exposure and health disparities is undeniable. Military bases and airports, often situated near Black neighborhoods, have used AFFF firefighting foam containing these PFAS chemicals for firefighting purposes. This has led to the contamination of surrounding soil and groundwater, impacting the health of countless residents. 

Many Black individuals diagnosed with diseases linked to PFAS exposure, including cancer, have taken legal action. They have joined the growing AFFF lawsuit claims, seeking accountability and justice.   

As of August 2024, TruLaw says 9,525 cases are pending consolidation. This alarming trend reminds us of the environmental injustices disproportionately impacting Black communities. The fight for health equity extends beyond the walls of hospitals, demanding a reckoning with the issues perpetuating these disparities. As parents, your advocacy must also encompass environmental justice, demanding safety for your children.

“Infant mortality rates are tragically higher, and asthma and obesity affect Black children disproportionately. “

Strategies for Effective Advocacy

Your child’s health requires medical appointments, but it also demands active participation. You are your child’s greatest advocate. Start by forging a strong partnership with your child’s doctor. Open communication is critical. Ask questions, voice concerns, and actively participate in your child’s treatment decisions.

Research and Empower Yourself

Research your child’s condition thoroughly using reliable sources. Understanding diagnoses, treatment options, and potential side effects allows you to engage in meaningful conversations with doctors and make informed choices.

Organize Records for Proper Care

Maintaining organized medical records is essential. Keep a comprehensive file of your child’s medical history, appointments, test results, and medications. This valuable resource streamlines communication with healthcare providers and ensures continuity of care, especially when seeing multiple specialists.

Finding Culturally Sensitive Providers

Moreover, finding culturally sensitive providers can significantly impact your child’s healthcare experience. Look for professionals who understand and respect your cultural background, beliefs, and values. This fosters trust, enhances communication, and leads to better patient satisfaction. 

Research by AAMC has shown that Black patients have better experiences with Black doctors. This increases trust, satisfaction, and understanding, leading to improved health outcomes, such as increased life expectancy and adherence to medical recommendations. 

Seek Support

Research online directories, seek recommendations from trusted community members, and ask potential providers about their experience working with diverse families. Many resources and organizations are available to support and guide you. 

Confronting Bias, Demanding Change

Even with the best intentions, implicit bias can linger in healthcare settings. It’s essential to recognize its subtle signs. According to Pew Research, 47% of Black Americans say their health outcomes have improved over the past 20 years. However, 31% say they are the same as before, and 20% say they’ve worsened.  

Perhaps a healthcare provider dismisses your concerns too quickly, makes assumptions about your lifestyle, or hesitates to offer specific treatment options. Trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to speak up.

In the same research, when asked about their healthcare experiences, 55% of Black Americans had one in 6 negative experiences. They say they had to speak up to get the proper healthcare and feel attended disrespectfully compared to other patients. 

You should respectfully but firmly challenge any assumptions or stereotypes you encounter. Ask for clarification, request a second opinion, or even consider switching providers if necessary. Remember, you can advocate for your child and demand respectful, culturally competent care.

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