“The same way as there are black and white dogs”: an analysis of the intersections between race and health

Abstract

This paper reflects on the Family Health Strategy (ESF) workers’ understanding of racial relationships and health intersections. We conducted semi-structured interviews with ESF teams’ professionals in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil, whose data were analyzed in light of the discussions that focused on the racial theme. The results point to discrepancies between different health models in the daily routine, race/skin color invisibility in training and professional work, and whiteness as a structuring element of race relationships. The study reaffirms the need for Public Health to focus on the intersection between the issue of race/skin color and healthcare relationships and invest in the training of professionals regarding race discussions.