Family and Youth Health

 Addressing Health Disparities in Black Families and Children lies in addressing Black families and children's critical health needs, recognizing the pressing urgency of health disparities within these communities. The statistics are stark:

• The death rate among Black youth ages 1-19 has increased by 37% between 2014-2020, compared to less than a 5% increase among white youths.
• Black infants are more than two times as likely to die as White infants.
• Black adults report negative interactions with doctors or other health care providers at a rate of 55%.
• Black youth ages 10-24 saw a 36.6% increase in suicide rates from 2018-2021.
• Black children are more than twice likely to be food insecure than White children.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for action. Structural racism permeates the systems determining our health outcomes, perpetuating disparities that must be urgently addressed. Dr. Dougé's mission is rooted in dismantling these systemic barriers, advocating for equitable access to high-quality medical care, and empowering Black families and children to thrive.