Read. Talk. Grow.

3. Uprooting racism in health care


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We talked with:

  • Linda Villarosa is a journalist, an educator and a contributing writer to the New York Times Magazine. She covers the intersection of health and medicine and social justice. Her book "Under the Skin: The Hidden Toll of Racism on American Lives and on the Health of Our Nation" was published in June 2022.
  • Amaal Starling, M.D. is an associate professor of neurology at Mayo Clinic in Arizona. She is an expert in concussion and headache — particularly in women.

We talked about:

In this episode, Dr. Millstine and her guests talk about:

  • The problems start at birth. Linda talks about her reporting on disparities in pregnant women and their babies — but the problems of racism in medicine don't stop there. The guests explain how chronic stress from racism and bias accelerates aging and contributes to disparities.
  • The problems are often ignored. All too often Black people seek care and are ignored, disrespected, misdiagnosed or blamed for their medical problems.
  • The problems have solutions. There's hope! Our guests talk about personal and political solutions. They've seen medical trainees and residents challenge practices and push change to correct systemic problems.

Can't get enough?

  • Purchase Linda Villarosa's book "Under the Skin: The Hidden Toll of Racism on American Lives and on the Health of Our Nation"
    • From Bookshop.org
    • From Barnes & Noble
    • From Amazon
  • Want to read more on the topic? Check out our blog:
    • Uterine fibroids are more common and severe in Black women – but there are treatment options
    • What are barriers to cancer screening and what can you do about them?
    • Be sure to check out Mayo's RISE for Equity hub.

Got feedback?

  • If you've got ideas or book suggestions, email us at [email protected].
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The podcast is for informational purposes only and is not designed to replace the physician’s medical assessment and judgment. Information presented is not intended as medical advice. Please contact a healthcare professional medical assistance with specific questions pertaining to your own health if needed.

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Read. Talk. Grow.By Mayo Clinic Women's Health