Black Women in North America and Challenges within the Healthcare System

Research shows that Black women often face disparities in mental health diagnosis and treatment. Despite experiencing higher rates of conditions like depression and anxiety, Black women are less likely to receive a diagnosis compared to white women.

This underdiagnosis and undertreatment prevent Black women from accessing the support and care they need. Culturally responsive mental healthcare is vital to address this injustice and ensure equitable mental health outcomes.

Black women have higher breast cancer mortality rates compared to women of other racial and ethnic backgrounds. Although incidence rates may be similar, the survival rates among Black women are significantly lower.

This disparity is exacerbated by barriers in accessing timely and appropriate breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. We must work together to break down these barriers, eradicate systemic inequalities, and ensure equitable access to breast cancer care for Black women.