Final answer:
The leading cause of death among black youth is HIV/AIDS, exacerbated by socio-economic health disparities and limited access to health care. African Americans also face higher rates of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The leading cause of death among black youth and African American women between the ages of 24 and 35 is HIV/AIDS. This health issue is particularly severe among those who are low-income, as they often have poorer access to health care, which can lead to later diagnoses and higher rates of transmission. Moreover, health inequality persists, with African Americans having a shorter life expectancy and higher mortality rates compared to Whites. The discrepancy in health outcomes is also seen in the higher incidence of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes among African Americans.
Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that African Americans face a variety of underlying health issues and often lack affordable health care in their neighborhoods, contributing to these health disparities. In addition, a report from the Henry J. Kaiser Foundation highlights the higher incidence of several diseases and causes of mortality among African Americans.