As more Americans begin to understand the insidious nature of racism and discrimination faced by Black Americans, little attention has been given to the impact of racism from the very beginning of Black Americans’ lives. Research shows, however, that structural and interpersonal racism experienced during the first 18 years of life has numerous consequences for Black Americans’ mental and physical wellbeing. 

 Why It’s Newsworthy: Interpersonal and structural racism and discrimination have negative consequences on Black Americans’ health from the moment of conception, leading to increased risk of chronic illness and negative mental health outcomes.  

Mennah Abdelwahab is a senior majoring in journalism at the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia as well as international affairs at the School of Public and International Affairs.