HEALTH-STATUS OF AFRICAN-AMERICAN MEN

The health condition of African American men has emerged as a major po licy issue confronting our society. Data from the National Center for Health Statistics were examined to determine the health status of Afri can American men. African American men have higher mortality and morbi dity rates than white males and they use health services less often th an white males, with the exception of public mental health facilities. To correct these conditions, social policies should target the health -risk behaviors of African American men, as well as the industries whi ch promote unhealthy life styles. The family is very important for hea lth promotion, and research is needed in this area, especially from th e perspective of African American men.