39. Improving Black Women's Health

Contagious Conversations

April is National Minority Health Month, and this episode we're sitting down with Dr. Melody McCloud to discuss the health threats faced by minority women—Black women in particular—as well as the vital role of equity in public health.

Dr. McCloud is an obstetrician-gynecologist who became the first black woman to establish an OB-GYN practice in DeKalb County, Georgia. Dr. McCloud is also the founder and medical director of Atlanta Women's Healthcare PC and lectures nationwide on women's health, sex and social issues. Her recent book, entitled Black Women's Wellness: Your "I've Got This!" Guide to Health, Sex, and Phenomenal Living, was released in January.

This month's episode is hosted by Dr. Judy Monroe, president and CEO of the CDC Foundation.

For full episode transcription, visit Contagious Conversations.

Key Takeaways:

1:40] Dr. McCloud talks about her life journey and what drew her to the field of medicine.

[3:28] What are some of the most significant physical health threats faced by minority women, and what effect do societal stresses have on black women’s physical health?

[4:55] Dr. Monroe and Dr. McCloud discuss homicide as the sixth leading cause of death among Black people.

[6:00] Dr. McCloud speaks of the journey of writing her book.

[7:49] What changes has Dr. McCloud seen in maternal health outcomes?

[10:22] What are the most important steps that women, particularly minority women, can take to improve their health and well-being?

[13:06] Why is it essential that we focus on health equity? Where can this focus lead us in public health?

[15:29] Dr. McCloud addresses implicit racial bias.

[16:15] Dr. McCloud speaks of the societal stress black women experience.

[17:19] What bright spots does Dr. McCloud see in public health related to women?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Black Women's Wellness: Your "I've Got This!" Guide to Health, Sex, and Phenomenal Living

Learn more about the CDC Foundation’s Health Equity work