Have you heard of the health gap? 

For many Afro-Latinos, accessing quality health care is a challenge. Language barriers, financial constraints, and discrimination make it difficult for Afro-Latinos to receive the care they need. In turn, these challenges contribute to greater health disparities compared to other groups. 

In honor of Black History Month, we are drawing attention to Afro-Latino health disparities. 

Below are three of the most significant disparities: 

• Higher Rates of Chronic Illnesses: Afro-Latinos experience higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and mental health conditions than their white Latino counterparts (New York University, 2023). 
• Limited Access to Quality Health Care: Many Afro-Latinos struggle to access affordable, community competent medical services due to economic instability and lack of health care coverage (American Heart Association, 2024). 
• Discrimination in Healthcare Settings: Studies show that Afro-Latinos with darker skin tones are more likely to experience discrimination in medical settings, contributing to higher stress levels and poorer health outcomes  (Pew Research Center, 2019). 

With nearly six million U.S adults identifying as Afro-Latino, it's critical that health care services reflect the full spectrum of the Latino community. 

And that’s what makes our health programs at CPLC so effective. When a patient walks through our doors, they know they are welcome, regardless of their skin color, language preference, or other identity markers. 

Our Behavioral Health Services and Health Insurance Resource Navigation services allow families and individuals to secure temporary housing, support with substance abuse recovery, family counseling, serious mental illness treatment, and guidance to unlock the full benefits of their health insurance plans. 

It is disheartening to learn of the ways our Afro-Latino brothers and sisters are left behind. But the first step to tackling the health gap is by shedding light on it.