Why Black women face a silent health crisis

Why Black women face a silent health crisis

Author: Scientific American May 15, 2026 Duration: 15:58
In this episode of Science Quickly, gynecologic oncologist and health equity researcher Kemi Doll explains why the well-known Black maternal mortality crisis is part of a broader “Black womb crisis” in which many Black women experience a lifetime of gynecologic health challenges. Drawing on research and personal stories from her new book A Terrible Strength, Doll explores how Black women face disparities in conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis, and endometrial cancer and how gaps in diagnosis, treatment and care contribute to worse outcomes for this population. Recommended Reading: A Terrible Strength. Kemi Doll. Harmony, 2026  Black women have worse IVF outcomes. New science helps explain why E-mail us at sciencequickly@sciam.com if you have any questions, comments or ideas for stories we should cover! Discover something new everyday: subscribe to Scientific American and sign up for Today in Science, our daily newsletter. Science Quickly is produced by Rachel Feltman, Fonda Mwangi, Sushmita Pathak and Jeff DelViscio. This episode was edited by Alex Sugiura, with fact-checking by Shayna Posses and Aaron Shattuck. Our theme music was composed by Dominic Smith. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever feel like you want to stay on top of the latest science news but don't have hours to dig through journals? That's the space where Science Quickly lives. Each episode is a compact, engaging conversation designed to fit into your daily routine, whether you're commuting or just taking a break. Host Rachel Feltman brings her sharp curiosity and a journalist's eye to every topic, joined by other seasoned reporters from Scientific American who are out there talking to the researchers on the front lines. You'll hear more than just headlines; this podcast delves into the how and why behind fascinating discoveries, from quirky animal behaviors to groundbreaking climate tech and the inner workings of the human brain. The tone is conversational and often witty, making complex ideas accessible without oversimplifying them. It’s a variety show in the best sense, meaning you might explore a deep dive on neutrino detection one day and the science of a perfect cookie the next. Tuning in regularly feels like having a direct line to the most interesting developments, explained by people who are genuinely excited to share them. For anyone with a budding interest in how the world works or a long-time science enthusiast looking for a efficient update, this series from Scientific American consistently delivers substance and surprise in a manageable format.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Science Quickly
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