Final answer:
King et al. argue that health behavior-focused interventions alone cannot resolve racial health inequities due to their systemic nature influenced by structural racism, economic disparities, and historic medical mistrust. A multifaceted approach that includes improved health literacy and access is essential for fostering health equity. Targeted policies and culturally sensitive research methodologies are key to overcoming these deeply entrenched disparities.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to King, et al.'s paper, interventions that solely focus on health behavior will not suffice to close the gap in racial health inequities because these disparities are deeply rooted in systemic problems, including structural racism. This statement is grounded in the understanding that African Americans have historically faced greater instances of chronic diseases, and a significantly higher rate of morbidity and mortality when compared to White Americans. This is not just a product of individual behaviors but results from systemic issues such as economic inequality, housing, health care access, and discrimination inherent in the healthcare system.
One cause of these disparities is the historical mistrust African Americans have towards the medical system, which is a consequence of past and current injustices and biases in healthcare provision. African Americans have been underrepresented in medical research, which has led to a lack of tailored health interventions. To foster health equity, there needs to be an inclusion of diverse methodological approaches in research and a focus on community-based participatory action to ensure that interventions are culturally sensitive and contextually relevant.
Moreover, the enduring legacy of a segregated healthcare system, which has been engrained as a form of structural racism, contributes to the ongoing health disparities. Policies aimed at reducing health inequities must, therefore, also target these systemic factors by taking a multi-faceted approach that includes addressing health literacy, improving access to care, and ensuring that individuals are empowered to make informed health decisions.