New Program Focuses On Health Of African-Americans

The goal is to improve the health of African-American men in Wake County through education and outreach programs. A recent study shows African-American men are not getting routine checkups and preventative care.

One of Wednesday's panelists said men need to change the way they think about their own health.

"We're raised from the time we're born to be macho and tough and not show weakness and what's resulted in that is men die at a younger age than women because of our toughness and risk-taking behavior," Dr. Michael Royster of the UNC School of Public Health said.

The program is sponsored by Strengthening the Black Family Inc.