Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month September 15 – October 15!
About Hispanic Heritage Month
- National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed each year in the United States from September 15 – October 15.
- This annual observance, originally established in 1968 as “Hispanic Heritage Week” and later expanded in 1988 to cover a 30-day period, is a time to honor and celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanics/Latinos in the United States.
Be the Source for Better Health for Hispanic/Latinos
- This year, the U.S Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority (OMH) is focusing on improving health outcomes for Hispanic/Latino communities through its theme, Be the Source for Better Health: Improving Health Outcomes Through Our Cultures, Communities, and Connections.
- This theme calls on each of us to understand how the unique environments, cultures, histories, and circumstances (known as social determinants of health, or SDOH) of Hispanic/Latino individuals impact their overall health.
- Hispanic/Latino Americans experience higher rates of preventable diseases and conditions, including disproportionately high rates of obesity, chronic liver disease, HIV infection, and primary and secondary syphilis.
- SDOH factors like high uninsurance rates and language and cultural barriers contribute to these disparities and can result in negative health outcomes for Hispanics/Latinos.
- By addressing SDOH through a comprehensive approach, we can work to advance health equity, reduce health disparities, and Be the Source for Better Health for Hispanic/Latino communities.