Childhood Obesity: Childhood obesity has plagued a generation--one that that has been predicted to be the first that will not outlive their parents. Addressing the issue of childhood obesity in the African American community requires an advocacy agenda designed to change policies and programs at the local, state and federal levels and an effective, community-wide outreach plan that will educate African American families and increase awareness on the root causes for childhood obesity, its connection to other health disorders that affect our wellbeing, and the need to eradicate childhood obesity across the nation.
HIV/AIDS: African Americans are disproportionately impacted by the HIV/AIDS epidemic more than any other racial or ethnic group in the United States. The NAACP’s health department is committed to “sounding the alarm” about the effects of HIV/AIDS through advocating for increased testing, education, and polices aimed at stopping the rates of new infections and increasing the access to care especially in communities of color.
Healthcare System Reform: The NAACP successfully advocated and mobilized in support of the passage of the health care reform bill for all Americans. Every American deserves security when it comes to health care. As we consider the healthcare debate across this country, the Association encourages local units and collaborative partners to stand for the rights of those that can't stand for themselves.
Health Disparities: The NAACP will continue to utilize our national voice as a premiere civil rights and advocacy organization to assist in the eradication of racial and ethnic health disparities. This work will include identifying social and environmental factors that affect health and wellness for communities of color. The NAACP will also engage in the workforce development movement to increase the representation of people of color in medical and public health professions.
The function of the Health Committee is to serve as the coordinating body for the health-related activities and initiatives for each of the branches and units in the state. The State Conference Health Committee coordinates efforts to host the State Health Summit and develop a State Annual Health Action Plan. The State Health Committee should interface with the state superintendent and the state health agency, as well as the members of the state's legislative health committees.