The Meaning of Men S4, Ep6: The Meaning of Black Men’s Health | Race, identity and early mortality
Why are Black men in America living 13 years less than their healthiest counterparts?
In this episode of The Meaning of Men, I sit down with Professor Derek M. Griffith, leading public health researcher and global expert on Black men’s health, to unpack the crisis hiding in plain sight.
From life expectancy gaps and suicide rates to structural racism, economic inequality and the commercial determinants of health, this conversation explores why Black men’s health outcomes remain among the worst in the United States — and what can be done about it.
Professor Griffith explains why he prefers the term manhood over masculinity, how identity and societal expectations shape behaviour, and why men’s health is too often framed as an individual failure rather than a policy priority.
If you care about men’s mental health, health equity, masculinity, fatherhood, purpose, resilience, and social justice — this episode is essential listening.
In this episode you will learn:
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Why the 13-year life expectancy gap for Black men exists
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How structural racism impacts physical and mental health
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The difference between masculinity and manhood — and why it matters
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Why men’s health is overlooked in public policy
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Practical policy shifts that could transform outcomes for Black men
Hear more from Derek:
https://prmh.nursing.upenn.edu/
Timestamps:
03:11: The Journey to Addressing Men's Health 05:45: The State of Black Men's Health 10:49: Historical Context of Manhood and Masculinity 16:01: The Role of Provider in Black Communities 20:59: Defining Manhood vs. Masculinity 25:56: The Visibility of Men's Health Issues 30:58: Policy Changes for Men's Health 36:04: Hope for the Future of Men's Health