The prevalence of hypertension and mental illness among Black Canadians is a growing public health concern. There is a paucity of Canadian research exploring the lived experiences of Black individuals with both hypertension and anxiety, particularly in relation to how racism shapes access to healthcare. This study aimed to advance awareness and cultural understanding of systemic and institutional racism, with a focus on its impact on access to care. A qualitative design employing descriptive and interpretive phenomenology was used. Ten participants were recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews with Black individuals residing in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Key findings suggest that racial inequities and disparities continue to directly affect the quality of care received, with racism emerging as a persistent barrier. These findings underscore the need for culturally responsive, equitable care approaches to address the structural barriers faced by Black communities in Canada.
Author Keywords: anxiety, Black health disparities, healthcare access, hypertension, institutionalized racism, racial inequities in healthcare