Home : Community Affairs

MEN OF COLOR HEALTH INITIATIVE (MOCHI)

The Men of Color Health Initiative is a comprehensive program that focuses on the unique health needs of men of color. Our aim is to reduce the overall number of deaths due to heart disease, stroke and other illnesses and to raise awareness of men’s health issues. We do this through community education, risk reduction and direct intervention services. Through our efforts, we believe that vast numbers of men can be saved, and that racial inequities in health can be eliminated.

Our services include:

• Organized physical activity programs for all ages - including our annual Hoops N’ Health event
• Culturally appropriate nutrition counseling
• Primary care referrals
• Health insurance enrollment
• Tobacco cessation programs
• Education about high blood pressure
  diabetes warning signs of heart attacks and strokes
• Health care recommendations

For more information, contact Richard Harding, program coordinator, at 617-876-0713

Important facts about the health of Men of Color

• Men of Color are more likely to die of heart disease than all types of cancer combined
• Men of Color are 50% more likely to die of heart disease than white men
• Men of Color live an average of 7 years less than white men
• Men of Color are often unaware that they can take steps to reduce their risk of heart disease
• Men of Color often do not lead healthy lifestyles and often do not receive the health care they deserve

Top Ten Killers of African Americans