RHHD Highlights Persistent Disparities During National Minority Health Month 

Posted on by bryanhooten

Last Updated: April 23, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 23, 2026
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov 

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Highlight Persistent Disparities During National Minority Health Month 

RICHMOND, Va. – During National Minority Health Month, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) work to spotlight the persistent health disparities impacting racial and ethnic minority communities. These long-documented disparities reflect structural and systemic inequities rooted in historical and ongoing racism and discrimination. With the mission to protect health, champion equity and partner to address local needs, RHHD encourages individuals, communities, and organizations to take concrete steps to advance health equity and address the social, economic, and environment conditions that lead to avoidable inequalities. 

“National Minority Health reminds us that many of the health differences we see today are not new and not random,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Population Health Manager Tamara Jones-Groves. “At RHHD, we are committed to using data, community partnerships, and community-driven solutions to better understand these disparities and support healthier outcomes for all residents.” 

Disparities in Richmond City and Henrico County 

Black communities across Richmond City and Henrico County often experience higher rates of chronic diseases such cardiovascular disease and poor health outcomes compared to their White counterparts. For example: 

  • In 2024 in Henrico County, the infant mortality rate in the Black population was more than three times higher than in the White population. 
  • Between 2019 and 2023 in Richmond City the mortality rate for prostate cancer in the Black population was five times higher than in the White population. During that same period, the mortality rate for colorectal cancer in the Black population was more than twice as high as in the White population. 

To protect health and address health disparities, RHHD offers a variety of low or no-cost clinical services and programs to Richmond City and Henrico County community members. RHHD also shares resources at a variety of community events. To request RHHD presence at a community event, please fill out this online form. 

Statewide Initiatives 

Virginia officials are highlighting resources such as the Office of Health Equity’s Health Opportunity Index (HOI), which assist communities in pinpointing specific factors contributing to inequitable and poor health outcomes. With the data from the HOI, local health districts can work with policymakers, community leaders, and concerned residents on the programs and strategies needed to ensure that all Virginians have what they need to live long and healthy lives. Having localized data down to the census tract level helps VDH conduct community outreach, including free health screenings, vaccination events, and educational workshops, and better meet the needs of communities of color. 

Visit rhhd.gov for more health and safety information. Follow RHHD on Instagram (@richmondcity_hd) and Facebook. 

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Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are sister public health agencies serving our connected communities. Our mission is to protect health, champion equity, and partner to address local needs. 

rhhd.gov | henrico.gov/health | RHHD Facebook | IG: @richmondcity_hd