From theory to practice: mapping the implementation of the Health Belief Model (HBM) in health-seeking behavior research among Black populations in the U.S.

This study aims to systematically examine the implementation of the Health Belief Model in influencing health-seeking behaviors within the Black population in the United States, including African Americans and other individuals of African descent, and to evaluate its application as an intervention model for promoting health-related behavioral changes. This research is important because it addresses a critical gap in understanding how theoretical frameworks like the HBM are applied in studies focused specifically on African Americans and African immigrants, offering a more inclusive and intersectional perspective. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a total of 221 articles were initially identified across Google Scholar (n = 115), PubMed (n = 49), and ProQuest (n = 57). Of these, 21 peer-reviewed studies met all inclusion criteria. Findings suggest that the HBM offers a robust framework for interpreting individual health perceptions and guiding targeted interventions. However, the review also identifies limitations, including the predominance of cross-sectional designs, geographically limited samples, and insufficient consideration of systemic barriers such as socioeconomic inequities and medical mistrust. This review also offers a rare population-specific synthesis of HBM application across diverse health issues, emphasizing the need for future research to adopt longitudinal designs and integrate motivational and structural models to enhance health outcomes in Black communities.