Disentangling the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Health Disparities in African Americans: Biological, Environmental, and Social Factors

The document explored the health disparities faced by African Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the complex interplay of biological, environmental, and social factors. African Americans experienced a COVID-19 mortality rate 2.7 times higher than whites, exacerbated by pre-existing conditions like obesity and cardiovascular diseases, socioeconomic status, and systemic inequities in healthcare access. Genetic predispositions, vitamin D deficiency, and epigenetic factors also contributed to severe outcomes. The study highlighted the need for targeted public health strategies, improved access to preventative care, and reforms in healthcare infrastructure to address these disparities and improve health outcomes for African American communities.