February marks Black History Month in the United States. It celebrates the major achievements of Black Americans throughout history. It is also a chance to learn about key moments that have not only shaped the Black experience in America, but that of the entire nation. Black History Month is often a time to look at how far we’ve come and how far we have to go. At the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), we believe one of the best ways to honor the past is to heal the present and fight for a more equitable future.

Right now, the COVID-19 pandemic is exposing many harsh truths. One of these includes the stark disparities in health care. COVID-19 has resulted in more hospital stays and deaths for Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous Americans and other minority groups in the United States. Asthma and allergies are no different.

The same groups face the highest asthma burden as detailed in AAFA’s report “Asthma Disparities in America: A Roadmap to Reducing Burden on Racial and Ethnic Minorities.”

During Black History Month, AAFA will continue to highlight key differences in diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes, especially for Black Americans. We will be sharing stories, resources, information, and strategies that can make a difference.

“Disparities in health care are something we know about all too well as an organization, and we are actively working to change this,” said Kenneth Mendez, AAFA President and CEO, in the “Asthma Disparities in America” report. “The disproportionate harm from the health care systems on minority populations are both rooted in the same thing: deep, systemic racism. Our systems have historically failed Black Americans and other marginalized groups. AAFA is an organization that has always been dedicated toward striving for justice with our work to reduce disparities in care for underserved groups. We are working hard to keep these issues at the forefront until we eradicate these differences.”