Fibroids are growths that form in the uterus. They are not cancerous, but they can cause a lot of problems, such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility. Fibroids are very common among women of reproductive age, but they affect some groups more than others. In particular, Black women are more likely to suffer from fibroids and their complications than women of other races.
Why are fibroids more common and severe in Black women?
According to the Mayo Clinic, Black women are three times more likely to develop fibroids than white women. They also tend to develop fibroids at a younger age, have larger and more numerous fibroids, and experience more severe symptoms and complication.
The exact reasons for this disparity are not fully understood, but they may involve a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and social factors. For example, some studies suggest that Black women have higher levels of estrogen and progesterone, which may stimulate fibroid growth. Other studies point to the role of vitamin D deficiency, stress, obesity, diet, and exposure to chemicals or pollutants in increasing the risk of fibroids.
Why are fibroids less treated in Black women?
Despite having worse outcomes from fibroids, Black women are less likely to receive adequate and appropriate treatment for their condition. According to the Resilient Sisterhood Project, a nonprofit organization that advocates for the reproductive health of Black women, Black women are less than half as likely as white women to receive medication or hormonal therapy for fibroids. They are also less than a third as likely as white women to undergo myomectomy, a conservative surgery that removes the fibroids but preserves the uterus and potential fertility.
On the other hand, Black women are more than twice as likely as white women to undergo hysterectomy, a surgery that removes the entire uterus. Hysterectomy is the most invasive and irreversible treatment for fibroids, and it has its own risks and consequences, such as early menopause, sexual dysfunction, urinary incontinence, and increased risk of heart disease and osteoporosis.
There are many possible barriers that prevent Black women from accessing optimal care for fibroids, such as lack of insurance coverage, lack of access to quality health care facilities or providers, lack of awareness or education about fibroid treatment options, lack of trust or communication with health care providers, and cultural or personal preferences. However, none of these factors justify the unequal treatment that Black women receive for fibroids. Black women deserve to have the same options and opportunities as other women when it comes to their reproductive health and well-being.
What can you do if you have fibroids?
If you are a Black woman who has fibroids or suspects that you may have them, you should know that you are not alone and that you have choices. You should seek medical advice from a fibroid specialist who can offer you the best and most appropriate care for your condition. You should also learn more about fibroids and their impact on Black women from reliable sources, such as the Resilient Sisterhood Project.
Sources:
Uterine fibroids are more common and severe in Black women — but there are treatment options - Mayo Clinic
How Fibroids Affect Black Women - Medical News Today.
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