Why Fort Worth, Texas (76104) Leads in Causes of Death.

 

Why Fort Worth, Texas (76104) Leads in Causes of Death.

Fort Worth’s 76104 ZIP code has the lowest life expectancy in Texas, with residents, particularly in the historic Black community of Morningside, living nearly 12 years less than the state average. Several factors contribute to this alarming statistic, including health disparities, socioeconomic conditions, and historical neglect of Black and low-income communities.

Key Factors Driving High Mortality Rates in 76104:

1. Heart Disease & Chronic Illness

• Heart disease, cancer, strokes, and diabetes are leading causes of death in Texas, disproportionately affecting Black communities due to limited access to preventive healthcare, healthy food options, and quality medical facilities.

• The prevalence of food deserts, like the one in 76104, contributes to poor diets and increased risk of chronic illnesses.

2. Socioeconomic Disparities & Healthcare Access

• Many residents in 76104 face higher poverty rates and lower incomes, making healthcare access difficult.

• A lack of insurance coverage and limited primary care services leads to untreated conditions, causing premature deaths.

3. Historical & Systemic Neglect

• Decades of redlining, segregation, and economic disinvestment have left 76104 with fewer hospitals, fewer healthcare resources, and environmental hazards that impact residents’ health.

• The decline of historically Black neighborhoods, including Morningside, has further limited community health support.

4. High STD Rates & Public Health Concerns

• Fort Worth ranks No. 38 in the nation for sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates, contributing to broader public health concerns that reflect deeper issues in healthcare access and education.

5. Mental Health & Violence

• Accidents, including violence and drug overdoses, are among the top three causes of death.

• The mental health crisis, fueled by stress, economic hardship, and lack of mental health resources, remains a growing concern.

Call to Action: Addressing the Crisis

The 76104 community is at the center of efforts to reverse these trends through initiatives like Farm Fort Worth, which seeks to eliminate food deserts, and local health advocacy programs that push for equitable healthcare access. Faith-based institutions, like New Mount Rose Missionary Baptist Church, continue to be at the forefront of solutions—offering outreach, wellness programs, and support networks to bridge the health gap.

Addressing the health crisis in 76104 requires policy changes, community investment, and a commitment to eliminating racial health disparities. The fight for health equity is not just about statistics—it’s about saving lives and restoring communities.