Why do American Black people generally experience worse health than American White people? This exploration dispels the myth that Black bodies are inherently inferior and more susceptible to disease, a false notion rooted in racial science used to oppress Black individuals since their ancestors arrived in America. Understanding Black health necessitates recognizing race as a significant social category that influences social and political power, as well as access to essential health resources. Systemic racism and White supremacy within American institutions have systematically denied Black people this power and access, leading to persistent health disparities. The examination of social inequities reveals that the poorer health outcomes among Black individuals are not coincidental; rather, American institutions have been structured to withhold necessary resources for health and wellbeing. This work provides a concise discussion of the health of Black people, addressing the social, political, and cultural determinants that affect their health. It investigates how the intersection of Black individuals' multiple identities with anti-Black institutions, such as housing and healthcare, contributes to adverse outcomes in areas like pregnancy, pain management, sleep, and cardiovascular disease.
