Minority Health Month Brings Educational Events Across Dayton

Public health agencies aim to address disparities and improve outcomes in minority communities.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:22pm

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A minimalist neon outline of a pregnant woman's silhouette against a dark background, conceptually representing the focus on Black maternal health during Minority Health Month.Educational events during Minority Health Month aim to address disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes for Dayton's minority communities.Today in Dayton

April is recognized as Minority Health Month, and health agencies across Dayton, Ohio are hosting a series of educational events throughout the month to address health disparities in minority communities. The events will focus on issues like infant mortality, chronic diseases, and barriers to accessing healthcare.

Why it matters

Minority populations in Dayton face significant health challenges, with higher rates of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and infant mortality compared to the general population. These events aim to raise awareness and provide resources to help address these longstanding disparities.

The details

Public Health Dayton & Montgomery County is leading the effort, with events planned on topics like Black maternal health, mental health, and postpartum care. The agencies hope to break down barriers related to access to healthy food, transportation, and insurance coverage that contribute to poorer health outcomes in minority communities.

  • April is recognized as Minority Health Month nationwide.
  • Black Maternal Health Week will take place in the second week of April.
  • A kickoff film event is scheduled for April 11th.

The players

Public Health Dayton & Montgomery County

The local public health agency organizing educational events for Minority Health Month in Dayton.

Dan Suffoletto

Communications manager at Public Health Dayton & Montgomery County, who spoke about the importance of addressing health disparities in minority communities.

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What they’re saying

“Something like infant mortality also is an example of that where black babies die at a rate of three times that of white babies.”

— Dan Suffoletto, Communications manager

“There's certain chronic diseases, heart disease, diabetes that can have higher rates in minorities.”

— Dan Suffoletto, Communications manager

“There are certain things about where you live, work, and play that lead to poor health outcomes. If you live in an area called a food desert where you're not able to get healthy or fresh food, if you have transportation barriers that stops you from getting to your doctor's appointments, if there's lack of job opportunities in an area, that impacts your ability to get something like health insurance.”

— Dan Suffoletto, Communications manager

What’s next

The kickoff film event 'Rooted and Rising Black Maternal Mental Health, Postpartum and Resilience' is scheduled for April 11th at the Dayton Metro Library Northwest branch.

The takeaway

Minority Health Month highlights the urgent need to address persistent health disparities in Dayton's minority communities. By hosting educational events and raising awareness, local health agencies hope to empower residents and break down barriers to accessing quality healthcare.