National Minority Health Month calls attention to—and works to eliminate—disparities in access to healthcare and health outcomes in underserved communities across America.
Advancing health access and equity for underserved communities nationwide.
Raising awareness · Advocating for change · Advancing equity for all minority populations.
Black Americans more likely to develop Alzheimer's vs. white Americans
Observed every April, National Minority Health Month (NMHM) aims to call attention to and eliminate disparities in access to healthcare and health outcomes in underserved communities.
Today, NMHM is dedicated to raising awareness of disparities in care, advocating for policy changes to better support underserved communities, and promoting initiatives that address social determinants of health and advance health access for all minority populations.
National Minority Quality Forum (then NMHM Foundation) launched the initiative to continue the legacy of community health advocacy.
Launched in April in response to Healthy People 2010, an initiative led by the Dept. of Health and Human Services to promote health and disease prevention.
The U.S. Congress officially recognized April as National Minority Health Month via a Concurrent Resolution, reinforcing the federal government's commitment to reducing health disparities.
This timeless principle drives our mission: ensuring every American — regardless of background — has access to the healthcare they need to thrive.
National Minority Health Month is a signature program of the National Minority Quality Forum — a data-driven, patient-focused nonprofit dedicated to eliminating health disparities and improving health outcomes.
Every voice, story, and action moves us closer to health access for all. Here's how you can participate.
Tips and strategies to host a community event that provides access to health resources in your neighborhood.
Check Out How →Share how you or your organization is working in the community to advance health access and equity for all.
Start Sharing →Download the National Minority Health Month Social Media Toolkit and start spreading the word today.
Download Now →Data from the NAACP and the Administration for Community Living reveal staggering inequities facing Black Americans today.
Black Americans are more than twice as likely as white Americans to develop Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.
Black Americans are 80% more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes and nearly twice as likely to be hospitalized for it.
The incidence of high blood pressure in Black women aged 20+ is 60% higher than in white women.
Black women are 40% more likely to die of breast cancer than white women.
The risk of stroke for Black men is twice that of white men — making early intervention and care access essential.
The poverty rate for African Americans 65+ is 18% — more than twice the overall rate for all Americans 65+.
Sources: NAACP Health Disparities Report · ACL 2020 Profile of African Americans Age 65+
Guidance from community physicians on the most impactful screening and care steps you can take today.
You have to be your own best advocate for yourself and your family members.
Once you turn 40, start getting screened for colon cancer — don't wait.
Get screened and know your Hgb A1c and Fasting Glucose levels.
Women: continue monthly self-exams and get a screening mammogram starting at age 40.
A calcium scoring CT scan is a good, inexpensive screening test to evaluate your heart condition.
Your mouth is the gateway to your body. Good dental health protects your heart, brain, and overall wellbeing.
Exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and keep your mind active through reading, puzzles, and new skills.
High blood pressure is a major cause of chronic kidney disease. Keep your numbers in a healthy range.
Connect with leaders, advocates, and community members dedicated to advancing health access and equity.
Join the National Minority Quality Forum's flagship annual summit bringing together policymakers, clinicians, and community advocates to drive measurable change in health disparities and access.
Register TodayA focused convening on communications strategy, health messaging, and combating misinformation to advance health access in underserved communities.
Learn More & Register →Stay up-to-date with the latest health information, research, and resources — curated for communities that need it most.