Each February in the U.S., we recognize Black History Month to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of Black and African Americans. As we honor the contributions of the past, we also work to advance health equity and foster a healthy community now and in the future.

Health equity is when everyone has an equal opportunity to be as healthy as possible. The Health Department’s Outreach Team puts health equity into action by building relationships, listening to the needs of the community, providing culturally and linguistically appropriate information, and making connections to health services. Through these resources, Fairfax Health District residents are more empowered to create healthier outcomes.

For Black History Month, Community Health Specialists who work within the Black and African communities share information to help you be a champion for your health.

Heart Disease

Erika Logan, Outreach and Engagement Supervisor, highlights heart disease disparities affecting Black women and shares how to maintain heart health.

Heart disease refers to several types of heart conditions. Coronary artery disease affects the blood flow to the heart and is the most common heart disease. High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. You can prevent or manage heart disease through healthy lifestyle habits and by taking charge of health conditions.

Learn more about heart disease.

Colorectal Cancer

Frank Owusu, Senior Community Health Specialist, shares tips to prevent colon cancer.

Colorectal cancer (colon cancer) is that occurs in the colon or rectum. Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the United States. And according to the National Cancer Institute, it is more common in men than women and among those of African American descent. The best way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is by having regular screening tests beginning at age 45.

Learn more about colon cancer.

Cancer Prevention

Mariama Kalokoh, Community Health Specialist, focuses on ways you can take action to prevent cancer.

Cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. Cancer can start almost anywhere in the body. Black and African American people have higher rates of getting and dying from many kinds of cancer compared to people of other races. You can lower your risk of getting many common kinds of cancer by making healthy habits, getting certain vaccines, and getting recommended screening tests.

Learn more about cancer.

Additional resources

For more information about Black History Month in Fairfax County, see Celebrating Black History Month in Fairfax County.

For more updates from the Health Department, visit our web page and follow us on social media.