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Banner Health is raising awareness for diseases that disproportionately affect Black Americans

This month, Banner Health is  raising awareness for diseases, conditions and syndromes that disproportionately impact Black Americans. Alzheimer’s is one of them.

Black Americans are twice as likely to have Alzheimer's or other related dementia, when compared to white Americans. 

Dr. Angela Allen with Banner Health, says there are many potential reasons for this beyond individual lifestyle choices and eating habits.

“The lack of knowledge, the lack of health-care resources. The fact that [there is] mistrust in the communities particularly in the health-care communities," Allen said. 

Banner is also highlighting the increased risk of stroke for Black Americans, and will focus on heart disease later this month.

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Jill Ryan joined KJZZ in 2020 as a morning reporter, and she is currently a field correspondent and Morning Edition producer.