The Impact of Racism on Child and Adolescent Health
Despite some progress toward racial equity, a growing body of research is establishing the negative effects of racism on the health and well-being of children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. The American Academy of Pediatrics this month released a policy statement outlining the evidence base on the role of racism in child and adolescent development and health outcomes. The impact of racism has been linked to birth disparities and mental health problems in children and adolescents, chronic stress that predisposes individuals to chronic disease, and racial disparities in infant mortality and low birth weight.