Final answer:
Genetic variables are not directly related to poverty, which is the primary factor influencing the health problems of African Americans. Health disparities arise from socioeconomic issues, racial discrimination, and a history of medical mistrust—necessitating systemic change and targeted health interventions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Factors Contributing to African Americans' Health Problems
The largest underlying factor in African Americans' health problems is poverty. Poverty is associated with various detrimental outcomes, particularly regarding health. Poverty can contribute to poor nutrition, substandard living conditions, and limited access to healthcare, all of which can have dire effects on an individual's health. However, when considering the factors that are related to poverty and health, genetic variables are not directly related to poverty. While there is a range of health disparities affecting African Americans due to both socioeconomic issues and racial discrimination, genetics as an isolated factor doesn't stem from poverty.
Racial discrimination, including from the healthcare system itself, has been demonstrated to negatively impact health as well. Health inequality and the higher rates of chronic diseases among African Americans are influenced by higher rates of unemployment, obesity, lack of home ownership, education, and wealth, coupled with lower access to healthcare. The history of medical mistrust among African Americans and underrepresentation in medical research further exacerbate these issues.
Efforts to improve these disparities should be interdisciplinary and consider the socio-economic and historical contexts that contribute to health inequalities. This involves addressing economic, housing, and healthcare system inequalities as well as improving health literacy and patient education. Ultimately, systemic change and targeted intervention are required to effectively combat health disparities.