20/07/2023
🔬 The Epigenetic Connection to Black Disparity 🔬
Did you know that stressful experiences can leave long-lasting marks on our genetic material? New research shows that these changes, called epigenetics, can even be passed down across generations. For black families, the stressors and violence experienced directly or witnessed can affect stress reactivity, biochemistry, and behavior, potentially extending across multiple generations.
These epigenetic effects contribute to the disparities faced by black individuals in the US, including higher rates of diseases and poorer treatment. Centuries of discrimination have not only deprived them of economic and social well-being but also resulted in a range of medical and psychiatric illnesses.
While reparations may not reverse these epigenetic marks, recognizing the neurobiological and behavioral consequences of systemic violence and injustice is essential. Universal access to quality medical and psychiatric care can help address the profound disparities in health and promote comprehensive well-being.
Let's work towards a future where everyone can thrive in an environment that nurtures well-being, breaking the cycle of medical disparities and fostering a healthier society for generations to come.
