An interview with Professor Winston Morgan, Professor of Toxicology, Equity and Inclusive Practice at the University of East London.

Confronting Racism: Health Inequities, Sickle Cell Challenges, and Academic Gatekeeping

In this compelling episode of the Public Health Tackling Racism and Inequality Program podcast, host Lee Pinkerton engages with Professor Winston Morgan from the University of East London. They delve into the impacts of racism on public health and academic careers, discussing the ADPH London position statement and exploring strategies to combat systemic barriers.

The conversation touches on the psychological and physiological effects of racism, such as chronic stress contributing to premature aging and disease vulnerability. Highlighting new advancements, the episode also covers promising gene therapy for sickle cell disease and addresses the biases and training gaps in healthcare that affect treatment quality. Throughout, the importance of increasing diversity among healthcare professionals and understanding the broader societal factors influencing health disparities are emphasized.

00:00 Introduction to the Public Health Tackling Racism and Inequality Program

00:33 Themes for Action Development

01:01 Podcast Series Overview

01:43 Guest Introduction: Professor Winston Morgan

02:32 Professor Morgan's Academic Journey

03:06 Challenges in Academia

08:47 Supporting Students and Overcoming Barriers

11:47 Research on Racism and Public Health

15:44 The Impact of Discrimination on Health

17:12 Understanding the John Henryism Effect

18:34 Exploring Sickle Cell Research

20:43 Gene Therapy for Sickle Cell

24:04 Challenges in Sickle Cell Treatment

28:51 Genetic Diversity and Health Inequalities

31:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts