Reclaiming Narratives: Addressing health inequities for black women in the UK

As we step into October, I feel a surge of passion and purpose. It’s a month filled with significance—Black History Month, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and World Menopause Day on the 18th.

This time of year always reminds me of the importance of storytelling and reclaiming narratives, especially when it comes to the health challenges faced by Black women in the UK. We need to talk about the disparities in diagnosis and medical support that often leave us vulnerable and unheard.

Let’s start with breast cancer. Recent analysis from Cancer Research UK reveals that Black women in England are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at a later stage than their white counterparts. Can you imagine the anxiety of waiting until it’s too late? This late diagnosis can mean fewer treatment options and lower chances of survival, and it hits close to home for so many of us. It’s not just a statistic; it’s a reality that could affect any one of us.

But why does this happen? A mix of factors play a role. Cultural beliefs, mistrust in the healthcare system, and a lack of awareness can deter us from engaging in routine screenings. For many Black women, participating in screening programs may feel intimidating or even unwelcoming. Plus, some types of breast cancer that disproportionately affect us, like triple-negative breast cancer, are more aggressive and harder to treat. That’s why early detection is so crucial.

I’m here to remind you of the importance of taking charge of your health. It is important not only for Black women but women in general, to take the essential steps to self-examine and have regular screenings. Don’t brush off any changes you notice - your health matters. It’s time to reclaim our narratives and prioritise our wellbeing. By being proactive, we’re not just fighting for ourselves; we’re also paving the way for those who come after us.

Now, let’s pivot to another critical issue that’s deeply personal as it effects many important women in my life, menopause. New findings from Wellbeing of Women highlight a glaring gap in access to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for Black women. Only 17.3% of us have access to HRT, compared to 23.3% of white women. While the numbers might seem small, the implications are huge. Menopause can be a daunting journey, filled with symptoms that can disrupt our daily lives. For Black women, the absence of adequate medical support only adds to the challenge.

We’ve long been told to bear it in silence, to push through discomfort without seeking help. But why? Why should we suffer in silence when there are solutions out there? It’s time to break that cycle. It’s time to reclaim our narratives around menopause. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have questions about HRT, don’t hesitate to speak up. Your health is paramount. Find healthcare professionals who understand our unique needs and can offer tailored advice.

Aldermore has a number of benefits you can access to support all aspects of your wellbeing from our amazing employee networks, benefits and inclusive policies. Aldermore has a unique openness that I believe provides a really important sense of community and support.

We are committed to supporting the wellbeing of women within our organisation, ensuring they have access to the information and resources needed to manage their health. This includes providing essentials like sanitary products in all WCs, as well as exploring more comprehensive initiatives to give women more options in their health journeys.

Ultimately, I want every woman to remember that you are not alone—we must continue to advocate for our health and for the generations of women who will follow.