Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today, I want to discuss banned foods. There are some popular candies and snacks available in the US that might not make it to the shelves of other countries. As Halloween approaches, it’s essential to know why certain foods, especially our favorite treats, are banned elsewhere.

Recently, a startling trend has emerged. Many US foods have been banned from international shelves due to additives such as brominated vegetable oil (BVO), potassium bromate, propylparaben, and the infamous red dye No. 3.

Why Are These Additives a Concern?

BVO

Predominantly found in certain sodas, BVO is associated with skin irritations. Long-term exposure has been linked to headaches, memory loss, and even reproductive issues. Discontinued by giants like Coke and Pepsi, years ago, it remains prevalent in smaller brands. Notably, as of October 2023, California has banned foods containing BVO, with New York considering a similar move.

Potassium Bromate

This chemical, primarily used in baked goods to improve texture, has been flagged as a potential carcinogen. Its usage has led to bans in several countries, including the UK, Canada, and the EU. California goes a step further by mandating warning labels on foods containing it.

Propylparaben

Propylparaben is an anti-fungal, anti-microbial agent. It is used in everything from cosmetics to lotions to foods and baked goods. Alarmingly, it’s been linked to reproductive health issues in both genders.

Red Dye No. 3

Red Dye No. 3 is a common ingredient in both cosmetics and foods. In fact, it is estimated to be in over 3,000 foods. This dye was banned from lipsticks in the ’90s due to cancer risks. A recent Californian study also linked it to behavioral problems, leading brands like Peeps to discontinue its use by 2024.

While the thrill of Halloween centers around spooky costumes and candy hauls, it’s crucial to be aware of what we’re consuming. Of course, many of us have grown up eating these additives without immediate harm, continual exposure might be detrimental.

In conclusion, as you indulge in the Halloween festivities, remember to make informed choices for both you and your family.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today, I want to discuss the consequences of pharmacy closures in underserved communities. It’s impossible to ignore the distressing trend in our health care landscape. A rising number of pharmacy closures, especially in underserved communities. I recently delved into this significant issue with Anne-Marie Green on CBS News. It’s clear that the implications of these closures go far beyond mere inconvenience.

For many years, major drugstore chains like Rite Aid, CVS, and Walgreens have been pillars in numerous neighborhoods, offering a vast range of essential health services. Now, as they begin to close down, the resulting implications are profound and deeply concerning, particularly for communities already struggling with limited health care access and basic services.

The Disproportionate Impact on Communities of Color

During my recent CBS interview, I highlighted that these pharmacy closures aren’t happening uniformly across regions. Disadvantaged communities of color are disproportionately affected. Deprived of access to crucial medications, essential items, and basic health screenings, these communities face a heightened risk of health disparities. 

The Growing Phenomenon of “Pharmacy Deserts”

“Pharmacy Deserts” has become a common term for areas without access to a local pharmacy. This problem is eerily reminiscent of the well-known challenge of food deserts, where many communities lack grocery stores that offer healthy foods. In my experience, there’s a clear overlap between these two challenges, especially in communities of color and rural locales. When you combine the absence of healthy food with a lack of essential medications, you end up with a silent yet burgeoning health crisis. Of course that is what these pharmacy closures are doing. They are hurting health care access. 

The Broad-ranging Effects on Health Services

Pharmacies offer so much more than merely prescription medications. They provide critical health services like blood pressure monitors, over the counter medicine, and vital check-ins such as COVID tests and vaccinations during the pandemic’s height. As these pharmacy closures continue, we’re watching essential health care touch points vanish, which makes achieving optimal health even more daunting for many.

Throughout my practice, I’ve always regarded the local pharmacy as a vital partner in ensuring patient care. The diminishing presence of these pharmacies, driven by an array of factors, including industry shifts and economic challenges, is directly impacting patient care in ways many might not immediately recognize.

Conclusion

The broader issue here is not just about pharmacy closures or businesses shutting their doors. This crisis affects the health, well-being, and very essence of entire communities. The increasing chasm of health inequities is gravely concerning. Of course tackling this challenge demands combined efforts from all stakeholders. 

This topic deserves deeper scrutiny. I hope we can keep these issues at the forefront of conversation and continue to push towards actionable solutions. Of course in hopes that we can resolve these challenges with health care access. 

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 Check out this video from Dr. Curry-Winchell @ Dr_BCW to learn more about the consequences of pharmacy closures in underserved communities. 

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today I want to talk about stress – understanding it and managing it. Stress is a ubiquitous presence in our lives and a common topic in health forums. Stress manifests diversely for each individual, depending on various factors, situations, and durations. It can evoke emotions like unease, anxiety, and helplessness, which can interfere with our sleep, appetite, energy levels and our life in general.

The Biological Impact

Extended exposure to stress activates our body’s fight or flight system— the autonomic nervous system— releasing an overabundance of stress hormones like cortisol. This constant exposure disrupts nearly all of the body’s processes and paves the way for an array of mental and physical health issues like anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and even difficulties with memory and concentration.

Acknowledging Stress

It’s important to acknowledge the stressors in our lives and identify the sources. Recognizing the feelings of stress is the first step towards investing in the holistic health of our mind and body. Simple actions like taking a break from social media, reading a book, or indulging in enjoyable activities can help alleviate stress, even if momentarily.

The Value of Self-Investment

Investing time in activities that bring joy can uplift your mood and significantly reduce overall stress. It’s crucial to discover joy in the daily nuances of life and to prioritize self-care and balanced living. Regular exercise, nutritious meals, and maintaining a balance in social engagements are pivotal in managing stress and enhancing mental well-being.

Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is crucial to mental and physical well-being, and its deficiency is linked to irritability, focus problems, and increased risks of mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Thus, it’s vital to prioritize sleep to maintain a healthy balance between the mind and body.

Seeking Help is a Strength

If stress becomes overwhelming, seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness but rather a strength. Reach out to organizations like the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for guidance, support, and personalized strategies. Managing stress and mental health is a continual journey, so be patient, allow growth, and continually monitor your mental state.

Conclusion

Remember, managing stress effectively enables you to navigate life’s challenges more smoothly. There isn’t a universal solution for managing stress, as everyone’s needs and situations are different. It’s crucial to explore different stress management techniques and mental wellness strategies and see what works best for you.

Remember to invest in yourself, maintain a balanced lifestyle, connect with others, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. With self-patience and consistent effort, cultivating mental resilience becomes an attainable goal, allowing you to face life’s uncertainties with a balanced mind.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Check out this video from Dr. Curry-Winchell @ Beyond Clinical Walls to learn more:

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today I want to talk about some new Menopause studies and the insights they are providing about the impacts of Menopause on Black women in America.  But first let’s talk about Menopause in general.

Menopause: Embracing Change and Wellness

Let’s dive into a topic that impacts countless individuals: Menopause. This natural phase initiates as hormones like estrogen undergo a significant decline. In medical terms, Menopause isn’t officially recognized until a year elapses between menstrual cycles.

Understanding the Symptoms

Common symptoms of Menopause encompass weight gain, fatigue, hot flashes, memory issues, sleep disruptions, mood changes, and discomfort during intercourse. Interestingly, some patients perceive the loss of their period as a part of their identity. Remember that everyone experiences health changes differently, so you may not experience any symptoms at all.
While it typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, it can vary due to factors such as family history, surgeries, and health conditions. Also there are also some medications that could cause an early onset of Menopause. However, what are new Menopause Studies saying?

Diversity in Experience

Interestingly, new Menopause studies indicate Black women experience Menopause approximately 8.5 months earlier than White women. While it’s not completely understood why at this time, it is believed that social determinants and systemic racism in certain healthcare practices could be a contributing factors.

• https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/black-women-severe-vasomotor-symptoms#black-women-and-menopause
• https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/discrimination-may-hasten-menopause-in-black-and-hispanic-women/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1447734/
• https://news.umich.edu/25-years-of-research-shows-insidious-effect-of-racism-on-black-womens-menopausal-transition-health/
• https://womensmidlifehealthjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40695-022-00073-y

Health Implications

Menopause carries far-reaching health implications, including an elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Of course, osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, potentially leading to an increased risk of bone fractures.

Navigating Solutions

Various treatment paths exist for Menopause, including hormone replacement therapy, a menopause-conscious diet, and self-care routines. However, each choice accompanies potential risks, especially hormone replacement therapy. It is always recommended to consult your healthcare provider before embarking on a new treatment, particularly in the case of something as impactful as Menopause. Of course they may also have updates from new Menopause studies that could be helpful as well.

Empowerment Through Support

Remember, you’re not alone in your Menopause journey. Advocating for your well-being and seeking medical assistance when necessary is key. In closing, talk with your family and friends about Menopause. Open discussions can help those who might be too embarrassed to ask for help find the support they need.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

To see what Dr. Curry-Winchell had to say about new Menopause Studies on Beyond Clinical Walls check out.

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today, let’s delve into a topic often underestimated in its impact on our well-being: voting. Some of you are thinking, “Voting impacts health?” According to the CDC as much as 80% of our health is shaped by “social determinants of health”? These are often directly impacted by local and federal laws, health policies, minimum wages, and environmental protections that directly impact health outcomes. This is why voter registration is so important.
https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2021/20_0569.htm

Your Vote, Your Health: Unveiling the Impact

Voting isn’t merely about selecting representatives. It is also about endorsing policies that greatly influence our collective and individual well-being. It’s about standing up for a healthier, more equitable environment that benefits everyone. Your vote can impact the health of your community through influence on social programs, environmental issues, and health regulations. Do not underestimate the power these factors have on your health and the health of your community. Also, The American Medical Association underscores the profound link between voting and health, recognizing that “voting is a social determinant of health and significantly contributes to the analyses of other social determinants of health.”
https://policysearch.ama-assn.org/policyfinder/detail/voting?uri=%2FAMADoc%2FHOD.xml-h-440.805.xml

Barriers and Disparities

Sadly, certain communities face barriers to voting. For instance, communities of color, young people, rural residents, and disabled Americans often encounter obstacles that hamper their access to the voting process. Of course, these very same groups are often disproportionately affected by health disparities. To help improve health equity, we need to enable those facing barriers to use their vote to express their wishes.

The Power of Change

One group working to help underrepresented individuals vote is Vot-ER (https://vot-er.org). Vote-ER is a nonprofit on a mission for nonpartisan civic engagement within healthcare settings. Founded by Dr. Alister Martin, an emergency room physician. Vot-ER empowers healthcare professionals, clinical students, and medical institutions to champion voter registration and civic participation among patients and local communities. The National Voter Registration Act of 1993, which empowered the DMV, also grants hospitals the authority to conduct nonpartisan voter registration. Like voter registration at the DMV, healthcare settings possess a unique platform to promote civic engagement. By donning a simple badge, healthcare providers signify their readiness to assist patients with voter registration right in the hospital or clinic.

Your Role

Above all, incorporating nonpartisan voter registration and education into healthcare settings enables patients to participate actively in their civic responsibilities, ultimately influencing health-oriented policies. Voter readiness isn’t a sporadic effort tied to high-profile elections; it’s an ongoing commitment. If you’re a medical provider, social worker, or student in the health field, I invite you to join me in this movement. Obtain your free badge at https://vot-er.org/badge.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional or a patient, your voice matters. Take a moment now to register to vote or verify your voter registration status by visiting: https://drbcw.com/vote

Closing

In conclusion, we can forge healthier communities through a more vibrant democracy. Let’s channel the power of voting to shape a better future for ourselves and future generations. Above all, let’s make a lasting impact on our health and our future through voting.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Check out Dr. Curry-Winchell’s Beyond Clinical Walls video on this subject:

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today I want to discuss a critical condition, Cardiac Arrest, and the emergency treatment, CPR, that can be lifesaving. Cardiac arrest has been in heavy news rotation due to LeBron James’ son, Bronny James’ recent episode with cardiac arrest.

What is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly loses its ability to function, leading to a halt in blood circulation throughout the body. This can cause a person to gasp for air, lose consciousness, or stop breathing.

During a cardiac arrest, immediate action is crucial. Performing CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) or using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be lifesaving by helping the heart re-establish a rhythm or heartbeat.

How do you perform CPR?

The American Heart Association recommends placing two hands, one on top of the other, centered on the chest, with shoulders directly over your hands and locked elbows. Perform chest compressions of at least two inches deep on each push at 100 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to return to normal after each compression.

A common question is whether rescue breaths should be given. Rescue breaths involve giving oxygen directly when someone can’t breathe on their own. The answer is “Yes.” The American Heart Association recommends rescue breathing with compressions.
Visit here for more: https://cpr.heart.org/

Is CPR Effective?

CPR can double or even triple the survival rates for individuals experiencing cardiac arrest. Studies have shown that the sooner CPR is performed, the better the chances of survival and the fewer complications survivors experience.

Sadly, a recent nationwide study by the American College of Cardiology found that Black and Hispanic individuals were 41% less likely than white individuals to receive CPR when suffering cardiac arrest in public. Moreover, Blacks and Hispanics were 26% less likely to receive CPR when cardiac arrest occurred at home.
Fro more please visit: https://www.acc.org/About-ACC/Press-Releases/2022/03/23/17/31/Racial-Minorities-Are-Less-Likely-to-Receive-CPR-When-They-Need-It

This disparity in access to CPR is concerning and emphasizes the importance of everyone learning the procedure. By knowing CPR, you hold the power to save someone’s life. You never know when you might find yourself in a situation where CPR could make a lifesaving difference for someone in need.

Conclusion

If you have the opportunity, please take the time to learn CPR. It could be the most valuable skill you acquire and might make a life-or-death difference in the future, it helped save an unsuspecting Bronny James and it could it very well save someone you love as well.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Check out Dr. Curry-Winchell’s Beyond Clinical Walls video on this subject:

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, Dr. BCW; today, I want to shed light on a significant health issue that can affect women of all ages: uterine fibroids.

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. These growths are also known as leiomyomas or myomas. Uterine fibroids can vary in size, ranging from tiny, undetectable nodules to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus.

Symptoms:

The presence and severity of symptoms can vary among women with uterine fibroids. Some may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have one or more of the following:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Lower back pain
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Pain during intercourse
• Abdominal bloating or swelling

Causes and Risk Factors:

We do not fully understand the exact cause of uterine fibroids. Hormonal factors, particularly estrogen, and progesterone, play a role in their growth. Furthermore it is also believed that genetics also plays role. Some risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing fibroids include:

• Family history: If your mother, sister, or grandmother had fibroids, your risk may be higher.
• Hormonal changes: Hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle, can promote the growth of fibroids.
• Ethnicity: Uterine fibroids are more common in African American women than in women of other ethnicities. African Americans are 3 times more likely to develop uterine fibroids than white women.
• Age: Fibroids can occur at almost any age but are most commonly found in the 30’s and 40’s.

Treatment Options:

Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the size, and location of the growths, and whether a woman plans to have children. Options may include:

• Watchful waiting: A healthcare provider may recommend monitoring without intervention if fibroids are small and not causing significant symptoms.
• Medications: Hormonal birth control and other medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms or shrink the fibroids.
• Non-invasive procedures: MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery (FUS) and uterine artery embolization (UAE) can target and shrink fibroids without surgery.
• Surgical interventions: In more severe cases or when fertility is not a concern, surgical procedures like myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended.

Conclusion:

Uterine fibroids are a common condition affecting women. While they are usually non-cancerous, they can cause discomfort and impact a woman’s quality of life. If you suspect you may have uterine fibroids or are experiencing symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Early detection and timely management can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Check out my Beyond Clinical Walls video on this subject:

Hello, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, Dr. BCW for short. Are you drinking enough water? Today, let’s discuss hydration and the amount of water you need to drink. Staying properly hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health, but the ideal fluid intake can vary depending on several factors. This article will explore important considerations and tips to help you stay hydrated.

Factors Affecting Hydration Needs:

It’s important to understand that the amount of water you need to drink can depend on various factors. These include diet, age, activity level, climate, and overall health. While there are general guidelines, individual hydration needs may vary. Factors such as intense physical activity, exposure to hot or dry environments, illness, or pregnancy may increase water requirements. If you have any specific concerns or questions, it’s always wise to consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

Here are some links with general recommendations for water intake.

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
• https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-much-water-should-you-drink
• https://www.geisinger.org/health-and-wellness/wellness-articles/2023/02/22/18/15/how-much-water-to-drink-per-day
• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-much-water-should-you-drink-per-day

Fluids and Hydration:

Remember that hydration is not limited to drinking plain water alone. Fluids from various sources contribute to your overall hydration. Beverages like tea, coffee, milk, and even foods like fruits, vegetables, and yogurt contain water and can help meet your fluid needs. The key is maintaining a well-balanced intake of fluids from different sources throughout the day.

Monitoring Hydration:

A simple way to gauge your hydration status is to monitor the color of your urine. Typically, pale yellow urine indicates good hydration levels. Darker yellow or orange urine may suggest you need to increase your fluid intake. However, certain medications, vitamins, and foods can also affect urine color and hydration needs. When assessing your hydration, it’s essential to consider other factors, including urine color, and if you have any questions, of course, reach out to a healthcare provider.

Listening to Your Body:

While general guidelines exist, listening to your body’s signals and responding accordingly is paramount. If you feel thirsty, it’s a sign that your body needs fluids. Additionally, pay attention to other signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, fatigue, headache, or reduced urine output. Your body is unique, and by being mindful of its cues, you can ensure you’re adequately hydrated.

Conclusion:

Hydration is fundamental to maintaining good health, and the amount of water you need to drink can vary based on several factors. Remember that staying hydrated involves more than just drinking plain water; fluids from beverages and foods also contribute to your overall hydration. By listening to your body’s signals, monitoring the color of your urine, and considering individual factors, you can ensure you’re meeting your hydration needs. If you have any specific concerns or questions, consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance.

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.

-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, or Dr. BCW for short. With the summer heat in full swing taking precautions and ensuring you stay safe while enjoying outdoor activities is important. Excessive heat and intense sun exposure can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Today I will share some tips on beating the summer heat and enjoying your favorite activities while staying cool and protected.

Understanding Heat Exhaustion:

Heat exhaustion can occur when your body is exposed to high temperatures or when you overexert yourself in hot weather. Recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion is crucial. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, increased heart rate, dizziness, fatigue, headache, and nausea. It’s important to note that heat exhaustion can develop slowly or rapidly, and everyone’s tolerance for heat varies. Watch for these symptoms in yourself and those around you who may be more susceptible to heat related illness’s like heatstroke.

Taking Action for Heat Exhaustion:

Taking immediate action is essential if you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion. Get out of the heat and into a cooler environment quickly. Drink plenty of water to rehydrate, and consider using cooling towels or ice packs to lower body temperature. Resting in a shaded area and elevating the legs can also be helpful. Remember, addressing heat exhaustion promptly can prevent it from escalating into a more severe condition like heatstroke.

Understanding Heatstroke:

Heatstroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Symptoms of heatstroke may include hot, red skin (dry or damp), a body temperature of 103°F or higher, rapid pulse, and confusion or loss of consciousness. If you encounter someone experiencing heatstroke, call for medical help immediately, as this condition can be life-threatening. In the meantime, move the person to a cooler area, remove excess clothing, and cool their body using wet towels or a cool bath.

Tips for Staying Cool and Safe:

Preventing heat-related illnesses like heatstroke starts with taking proactive measures. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Take Regular Breaks: Whether you’re working or engaging in outdoor activities, schedule regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Allow your body time to cool down and recover.

2. Use Cooling Strategies: Cooling towels, wet rags, or wearing a damp t-shirt around your head or neck can help regulate body temperature and provide relief from the heat.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential to prevent dehydration. To stay hydrated, if plain water isn’t appealing, try consuming foods with high water content, like berries, cucumber, and yogurt. Remember, thirst is a sign of dehydration, so drink water even before you feel thirsty.

4. Dress Appropriately: Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors to reflect sunlight and keep you cooler. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using sunscreen with a high SPF also offer protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

Conclusion:

Enjoying the summer while staying cool and safe is possible with some simple precautions. By recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and using cooling strategies, you can protect yourself and others from the risks of excessive heat exposure. So get out there, enjoy the summer, and keep cool!

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.
-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW for short.  I am thrilled to share insights from my recent TEDx talk on Black Maternal Mortality with you. In this talk I cover a topic that has gotten some recent press, Black Mothers Dying. I shed light on the persistent issue of race-based medical practices and unconscious bias within our healthcare system and its real impact on black health. Specifically the life expectancy of black mothers. If you want to see more you can also check out my recent BBC interview which aired shortly before my TEDx talk was released.

Real-Life Stories:

During my TEDx talk, I wanted to urge the audience to grasp the gravity of the situation. I began by recounting the near-death experience of Serena Williams, a world-renowned athlete and champion. Serena’s terrifying encounter during childbirth highlights that even individuals with access to the best healthcare are not exempt from the dangers black mothers face during pregnancy. When disparities in black health are discussed, the argument inevitably falls to “lack of access.” Still, for maternal mortality, this is not the case. Affluent Black Mothers are dying 3x the rate compared to white women despite access to the best healthcare.

Unconscious Bias:

Unconscious bias is an invisible force that affects everyone. It affects our perceptions and decisions without us even realizing it. I shared a personal story from my experience as a patient and mother. My concerns were dismissed due to unconscious bias. If not for my personal relationships in medicine and the help of my husband, these dismissals could have cost me my life. Even though unconscious bias affects everyone, when the results of unconscious bias severely negatively impacts one group, it is something we must address. With Black Mothers dying at a 3x rate compared to other races this shows real negative impacts.

Invisible Pain:

One persistent stereotype that took hold many years ago was the thought that individuals with black skin feel less pain. I delved into the dark history of medical experimentation on enslaved black women, where pain medication was withheld under this false belief. And, of course, sadly, this bias persists today, as research shows that healthcare providers may struggle to recognize pain in black patients. Other studies have shown that many medical students believe black patients have thicker skin and feel less pain. This incorrect belief and subsequent disparity in pain management puts lives at risk and calls for immediate action.

Race-Based Medical Practices:

A significant issue I called out in my TEDx talk was the flawed VBAC scoring system. The original VBAC pushed risky medical procedures on specific racial and ethnic groups while pushing others towards safer natural births. I emphasized that race is a social construct and should not determine medical decisions. While progress has been made with revising the VBAC, I highlighted the need for continued change. I urged healthcare providers to advocate for updated policies and comprehensive training. Addressing race based medicine will help reduce black mothers dying during child birth.

Taking Action Together:

I ask everyone, healthcare providers and patients, to be agents of change. I called upon my fellow healthcare professionals to educate themselves about the fallacy of race-based medicine and to actively challenge these practices within their institutions. To patients, I stressed the importance of speaking up when witnessing racial inequities and engaging in self-reflection to confront our own biases. If we all look at our own biases we can overcome Black Mothers dying 3x and so much more.

Conclusion:

This TEDx talk on Black Maternal Mortality was incredibly emotional for me. I shared a very personal story from my life. I share my passion and commitment to addressing race-based medical practices and unconscious bias. My hope is that by shedding light on these issues that result in Black Mothers dying more than any other race, we can create a healthcare system that is equitable for every individual, regardless of race or ethnicity.

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.

-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)