April 13, 2024

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, or Dr. BCW for short. Today, let’s talk about the critical role of government in combating the Black maternal health crisis. Of course, if you follow my work, you know this is a subject close to my heart. Not only from my own personal experience with maternal health but from the major impact it has on the Black community.

The Ongoing Crisis in Black Maternal Health

The Black maternal health crisis has been a pressing issue for decades. Stark disparities lingering in the shadows of our healthcare system. Black mothers are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than their white counterparts. They also face serious challenges in accessing quality maternal healthcare—a situation I find both personal and distressing.

Solidarity with Biden-Harris Initiatives

Recently, I had the privilege of contributing to an article in Essence magazine. The article outlines the initiatives the Biden-Harris administration has implemented to tackle this crisis. From the Blueprint for Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis to the launch of the Maternal Mental Health Hotline. This comprehensive approach spotlights the necessity of high-quality maternal care and underscores the significance of accessible postpartum support for mothers across the nation.

My Contribution and Commitment to Change

Similar to the efforts by policymakers, my aim is to advocate for change that bridges the gap in maternal health outcomes. My voice in the Essence article echoes a collective call to action, underscoring the importance of healthcare equity, the need for a diverse healthcare workforce, and the crucial role of policy in bringing those engraved statistics to the forefront of national consciousness.

In joining the chorus of experts praising the administration’s steps towards improvement, my message was clear: As Black women, as mothers, as members of this society, we deserve to have our health taken seriously and our lives protected fiercely and consistently by every means available.

It is through these measures, support, and advocacy that we can ensure a future wherein Black mothers no longer face such dire statistics and instead find themselves enveloped within a healthcare system that serves them with the dignity, compassion, and care they rightfully deserve.

Stay informed and prioritize your health! – Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

To read the full Essence article on visit:

https://www.essence.com/news/biden-harris-black-maternal-health-week/

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, or Dr. BCW for short. Today, I’d like to talk about a topic that is of critical importance: the dangers of ignoring symptoms of cervical cancer. Thanks to She Knows for supporting this message and promoting health equity and advocacy. The current situation needs as many supporters as possible. Especially when health and life are concerned, we must find ways to elevate our message.

The Heartbreaking Reality

Recently, the loss of Jessica Pettway, a beloved beauty influencer who passed away from cervical cancer at the age of 36, has highlighted a concerning issue in healthcare. Of course, as a Black physician who shares similar roles as a wife and mother, I feel a deep connection to Jessica’s story. It’s a somber reminder of the increasing mortality rates and often-dismissed healthcare concerns of Black women. This isn’t just a statistic. Instead, it’s a call to action to address the systemic issues that perpetuate this tragic narrative.

Silent Symptoms and Missed Warning Signs

Cervical cancer is a silent enemy that can go undetected in its early stages. Regular screenings and exams are vital for early detection, especially for Black women. Black women face a disproportionately higher risk of developing and dying from cervical cancer. Jessica’s symptoms of intense bleeding and fatigue were attributed to fibroids at first. These dismissals showcase the vital need for both patients and healthcare providers to listen intently to the signs our bodies give us. Of course, seeking a second opinion is always a good precaution. Especially for conditions like cervical cancer, which may have limited or delayed symptoms.

Instead of shying away from the healthcare system, lean into it. Establish care with a healthcare provider. Build rapport with your healthcare provider, and ensure you are getting regular health screenings. When you have a provider that knows you, and a provider that you trust, it is easier to advocate and question your health plans.

Advocacy and Action

Without action, there will be no change. If we want to see improvements, we must be willing to speak up. It will be difficult and it will take time. Here’s where we must make a stand:

Remove Doubt, Trust Yourself: Never dismiss your intuition. No symptom or concern is too small to be addressed. If you feel overlooked by your healthcare provider, express your concerns until you are heard. Keeping a health journal can be an invaluable tool in these conversations.
Proactive Health Monitoring: Understand what screenings are appropriate for your age and current health status. This proactive vigilance is key to catching hidden health concerns early.
Seeking Second Opinions: There is power in persistence. If your health concerns are not being taken seriously, it’s essential to seek a second opinion. Your well-being must be given the comprehensive attention it deserves.

Advocating for oneself in the medical system can be daunting. However, it could be a necessary step that saves your life. Women’s health is a central aspect of public health, and sharing stories like Jessica’s creates a ripple effect of awareness. We cannot accept pain as “normal.” Instead, we must break down the biases and barriers that prevent effective and equitable healthcare.

Closing

To the women of color reading this: Your health matters. Your voice is powerful. Do not allow it to be sidelined. The road to health equity is long, but together, through advocacy and awareness, change is possible.

Each story shared, each conversation had, brings us closer to a future where our health is valued and our pain is seen. Let us honor Jessica’s legacy by advocating for yourself and others. By advocating our health concerns can be taken seriously.

Stay informed and prioritize your health! – Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

To read the full She Knows article on cervical cancer visit:

https://www.sheknows.com/health-and-wellness/articles/2993994/jessica-pettway-cervical-cancer/

Day: April 13, 2024

Black Maternal Health Crisis