Earlier this month, Endometriosis UK’s EDI Manager Emma Ernesto attended Black Health Equity Day (BHED), hosted by HEAL for Black People and supported by the African Caribbean Medical Society (ACMS) at King’s College London.
Black Health Equity Day is an annual day of awareness and action dedicated to addressing health inequalities that affect Black communities across the UK. Taking place during Black History Month, the event brings together health professionals, community organisations, and individuals to raise awareness, start conversations, and advocate for real change in how Black health is supported and prioritised.
For Endometriosis UK, attending BHED was an invaluable opportunity to connect, raise awareness of endometriosis, and continue to ensure that our resources and services are accessible to everyone.
We were grateful for the opportunity to host an information stand and join the panel discussion, sharing insight into how endometriosis affects Black women and those assigned female at birth, and highlighting the barriers they often face in receiving diagnosis and care.
Throughout the day, we connected with people from a wide range of backgrounds from those living with endometriosis to those hearing about the condition for the first time. These conversations were meaningful and eye-opening, reinforcing how important it is to keep endometriosis visible in all communities.
The event itself was highly interactive and engaging, featuring panels of Black health professionals and community organisations dedicated to improving Black health outcomes.
Breakout sessions provided a space for deeper discussion, exploring what needs to change within healthcare systems and how those changes can be achieved collaboratively between professionals, communities, and organisations.
Highlighting Inequities and Driving Research Forward
One key topic raised during the day was the lack of research into how endometriosis affects Black communities. There is still limited data on whether those from Black and other racialised backgrounds experience longer diagnostic delays or differences in care. But, Endometriosis UK is committed to changing that.
Through our Delayed Diagnosis in People of Colour research project, conducted in partnership with Cysters, we aim to better understand these experiences and advocate for solutions rooted in equity and inclusion.
Events like Black Health Equity Day are essential reminders that improving health equity requires collective effort. We look forward to continuing these important conversations throughout Black History Month and beyond.
Next up, we’re looking forward to attending:
- King’s College Hospital’s Black History Month Health Panel Discussion and Information Stand – Saturday 21st October
- Hatfield Cultural Connection’s Black History Month Celebration – Saturday 26th October
“It’s important for us to be where the community is. Part of supporting everyone with endometriosis is ensuring we are known and can be accessed by all.” Emma reflected.
