Summary:
Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) is a time to honor the Hispanic and Latino community’s achievements, culture, and contributions to the nation’s history. It’s an occasion to highlight the positive influence of Hispanics and Latinos throughout the country’s history, and this year we take the opportunity to recognize that our country is stronger, healthier, and safer when we recognize our shared humanity and value every individual and community: Todos Somos, Somos Uno: We Are All, We Are One.
As the U.S. population becomes more diverse, Hispanic Heritage Month offers a valuable opportunity to foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, break down stereotypes, and promote inclusivity. As a Hispanic person in the United States, I realize that the celebration not only brings people together for gatherings—promoting unity and solidarity and reinforcing our shared heritage and common experiences—but also serves as a reminder of the challenges and inequalities faced by Hispanic communities.
Uneven access to education, healthcare, and equal opportunities significantly affects the well-being and health of Hispanic people, as well as other minority populations. For instance, in 2022, only 88% of Hispanic young adults had completed high school, compared to 97% of non-Hispanic White young adults.1 Lower education levels can limit job opportunities, leading to lower incomes, which often means reduced access to quality healthcare and the chance to start managing chronic conditions early. The result is often poorer health outcomes.
Hispanic adults living in the United States are also more likely to have type 2 diabetes compared to non-Hispanic White adults and are less likely to be aware of their cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related risks, like high blood pressure, compared to their non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black counterparts.2 Even when diagnosed with high blood pressure, Hispanic adults are less likely to be on treatment or manage their condition.3
Addressing the burden of chronic conditions in Hispanic communities is an opportunity to drive prosperity, power, and progress for the entire country. A healthier population is more productive, leading to economic growth and better well-being for everyone, not just Hispanic communities. Ultimately, our ability to thrive and shape a better future for our children depends on our commitment to protecting and promoting the health of all Americans.
Addressing disparities in the burden of chronic conditions and social determinants of health requires strategic partnerships between government and community-based organizations and underused collaborations. These collaborations can lead to early detection and management of chronic conditions by raising awareness about healthy lifestyle choices and the importance of preventive care. They can also facilitate policy, systems, and environmental changes to ensure access to culturally sensitive and easily accessible health care for Hispanic communities. Further, promoting education, improving transportation options, creating equal job opportunities, and actively involving Hispanic communities in designing health programs can go a long way in advancing health equity.
The significance of Hispanic Heritage Month extends far beyond the confines of a single month; embracing and celebrating Hispanic heritage should be a year-round endeavor. Likewise, prioritizing the health of every person in the United States is essential to guarantee we can all enjoy the progress and prosperity we have achieved and pass them on to future generations. The Hispanic population has made lasting contributions to the country and will continue to do so. Let us ensure Hispanic heritage remains an integral part of our collective identity by engaging partners and advancing strategies to prevent disparities in chronic conditions and promote healthier Hispanic communities.
Endnotes
1 National Center for Education Statistics. Educational attainment of young adults. Accessed July 28, 2023. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/caa/young-adult-attainment
2 National Center for Health Statistics. Percentage of coronary heart disease for adults aged 18 and over, United States, 2019–2021. Accessed August 14, 2023. https://wwwn.cdc.gov/NHISDataQueryTool/SHS_adult/index.html
3 Abrahamowicz AA, Ebinger J, WHelton SP, Commodore-Mensah Y, Yang E. Racial and ethnic disparities in hypertension: barriers and opportunities to improve blood pressure control. Curr Cardiol Rep. 2023;25(1)L17-27
