In partnership with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), we’re launching a new series of Spanish-language multimedia programs focused on the critical role social determinants play in the health and wellbeing of persons living in the US.
The Cultura de Salud program series supports RWJF’s Culture of Health framework — which aims to give every person across the country the opportunity to live the healthiest life possible, regardless of their zip code.
Radio mini-programas and videos begin airing today on La Red Hispana’s Spanish-language media affiliates, digital and social media channels, with themes that shed light on social determinants of health contributing to issues disproportionately affecting US Latinos. These include early childhood development, access to healthcare and prenatal and neonatal health.
“Health doesn’t only depend on our own personal efforts and desires. Social determinants of health — like access to living wages, fresh foods, safe and walkable neighborhoods, transportation, fair housing, and quality education — have a significant impact on every person and family in the US. Only when we know how to identify and act to change these systemic challenges can we find solutions and improve the quality of life,” said Alison Rodden, CEO of Hispanic Communications Network / La Red Hispana.
According to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation County Health Rankings report, income inequality within US communities can have broad health impacts. These include increased risk of mortality, poor health, and increased cardiovascular disease risks. Inequalities in a community can accentuate differences in social class and status and serve as a social stressor. Communities with greater income inequality can experience a loss of social connectedness, as well as decreases in trust, social support, and a sense of community for all residents.
“We are seeing positive changes in the appreciation of the social determinants of health and the need for broader community health investments,” said Jordan Reese, Director of Media Relations at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. “There is greater understanding that diverse factors influence health, and we’re pleased to see more people understanding that factors like physical environment, economic opportunity, social support, and community safety strongly influence well-being.”
HCN’s Cultura de Salud programs will run in over 40 Hispanic markets throughout the Fall of 2019. The series includes 13 original audio and video productions with personal testimonials, tips on accessible healthier living, and informative elements that will be available through its La Red Hispana radio network of over 120 affiliate stations throughout the mainland US and Puerto Rico, and via HCN’s social media channels and website LaRedHispana.org.
Cultura de Salud programming and content is also available on-demand via HCN/La Red Hispana’s CulturadeSalud.org microsite.