By Kevin Palmer
In Georgia, Blacks are dying in disproportionately higher numbers than Whites from COVID-19. Blacks are 31 percent of the population but have suffered 52 percent of COVID-19 deaths. Conversely, Whites are 52 percent of the population, yet have suffered 38 percent of COVID-19 deaths. An ex-planation could be obesity and a weakened immune system which have been linked to COVID-19 deaths.
According to the 2019 State of Obesity Report, in America Blacks at 46.8 percent had the most obesity. In Georgia, Blacks at 38.3 percent have the most obesity, compared to Whites at 30.1 percent.
Moreover, medical research has shown Vitamin D is necessary for normal immune function. People with low levels of Vitamin D will have reduced levels of immunity which predisposes them to viral and bacterial infections. Humans don’t get much Vitamin D from diet; a lot comes from the Sun. The evidence shows the darker the skin the more slowly Vitamin D is produced.
Therefore, before playing the racism card, Blacks should consider reducing obesity by lifestyle and diet changes. Then, consider taking a Vitamin D supplement to strengthen the immune system.
