Health Disparities in Boys and Men of Color

Accumulating evidence shows that people of color suffer disproportionately from a number of health and social conditions as compared to their White counterparts. Numerous studies related to the overrepresentation of people of color among those with HIV infection, cancers, heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes, and other conditions have been conducted.1 People of color are often overrepresented among those affected by poverty, unemployment, and involvement in the criminal justice system, which increases risk for various adverse health conditions and the ability to access treatment. The Healthy People 20202 initiative emphasizes the importance of eliminating health disparities as one of its four overarching goals. Still, in discussions of health disparities, the unique factors contributing to health disparities faced by boys and men of color are too often overlooked. This editorial proposes important considerations in defining a research and action agenda to address health disparities among boys and men of color.