Research has found that African-American women are 10% less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer but 40% more likely to die from breast cancer. Asian-Americans represent only 5% of the American population but account for more than 50% of Americans who live with chronic hepatitis B. Latinas are twice as likely to have cervical cancer and are 1.4 times as likely to die of cervical cancer.

What do we call these complex findings? Health disparities. A health disparity is defined as a significant difference seen in the health status of different populations. It is caused simply by a disadvantage associated with the majority of theracial ethnic group’s social, economic and/or environmental status.

Major causes of health disparities include:

  • lack of access to health insurance

  • lack of access to healthcare

  • lack of access to health providers

  • lack of quality care received by a health provider

  • Communication barrier while receiving care (linguistics and/or cultural differences)

  • poor living conditions

  • poor working conditions

In order to reduce these disparities, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services created an action plan to close the gap. Disparities like lack of health insurance and lack of access to care has already been addressed with the help of the Affordable Care Act and new health care law. Now, millions Americans (including those of minority groups) who were once uninsured, now have access to affordable health coverage through ACA. Preventative services such as colon-cancer, diabetes and blood pressure screenings are now provided at no cost based on the health care law.

With the month of April being recognized as National Minority Health Month, Any Lab Test Now® joins in support of closing the gap on health disparities and promoting health equity. We understand how social, economic and environmental challenges can impact one’s ability to seek and receive quality health. That’s why we offer affordable lab testing prices with no insurance necessary. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you Take Control of Your Health®.