1/n Here are my remarks from yesterday, when I discussed COVID19 (and chronic disparities like asthma, HTN), their roots in lack of opportunities for some communities, and how everyone needs support, and can help stop the spread and live healthier lives.

https://www.c-span.org/video/?c4867646/user-clip-surgeon-general-adams-speaks-coronavirus-task-force-briefing

2/n “In NY Hispanics represent the majority of deaths. In Milwaukee County, blacks are 25% of the population but almost 50% of cases and 75% of the deaths. Well, it’s alarming but it’s not surprising that people of color have a greater burden of chronic health conditions.”

3/n “African Americans & Native Americans develop high blood pressure at younger ages, and it’s less likely to be under control, and does greater harm to their organs. Puerto Ricans have higher rates of asthma and black boys are three times as likely to die of asthma.”

4/n “The chronic burden of medical ills is likely to make people of color especially less resilient to the ravages of COVID-19. And it’s likely — that the burden of social ills is also contributing.”

5/n “Social distancing and teleworking, we know, are critical, and you’ve heard Dr. Birx and Dr. Fauci talk about how they prevent the spread of coronavirus. Yet only one in five African Americans and one in six Hispanics has a job that lets them work from home.”

6/n “Those of us in public service are working day & night to help stop the spread & protect you regardless of color, creed, or geography [and] You are not helpless -it’s even more important that in communities of color, we adhere to the task force guidelines to slow the spread.”

7/n Stay home, if possible. If you must go out, maintain 6feet of distance between you and everyone else, and wear a mask. Wash your hands more often than you ever dreamed possible. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. And call your friends and family.” https://twitter.com/surgeon_general/status/1248726079067619330?s=21

8/n “We can’t fix these issues overnight, but I promise you we will work with your communities to quickly and meaningfully move the needle in the right direction. Nothing less than the fate of our families and friends, my family and friends depends on it.”

9/n I realize many people didn’t see the actual remarks, and understandably were upset by tweets and stories that didn’t include the full remarks/ context. My apologies as my intent was to highlight racial struggles and underlying obstacles- not blame.

10/n In fact, I specially said during my remarks that people of color are NOT to blame. Their circumstances- which are often beyond their control- are. This is what we call the social determinants of health.

https://twitter.com/cheddar/status …

11/n I also spoke of my own life, family, and experiences, as I often do. Again my apologies to anyone who took offense- my honest intent was to lift up COVID19 disparities, highlight long present disparities in our Nation, and highlight systemic issues that lead to them.

12/n But I also don’t want people to feel helpless. While we address systemic issues there are things ALL people can and should do to stop the spread, and be as healthy as possible to fight off COVID19! I look forward to continuing outreach to all affected communities. 12/12