Charlottesville Women’s Health Event: Addressing Disparities and Empowering Prevention Strategies

Free Health Checkups for Women in Charlottesville

On July 19, Mount Zion First African Baptist Church in Charlottesville opened its doors for a special health event just for women. The focus was on closing health gaps, particularly for Black women, and making preventive care easier to access.

Jacklene Martin, the Director of Community Partnerships and Health Equity at UVA Health, emphasized the importance of self-care. “Many women prioritize everyone else’s needs over their own,” she said. But now, more women are recognizing the need to focus on their health.

The event, organized by UVA Health and the African American arts and culture group Chihamba, aimed to encourage women to get screenings and checkups. While the event was open to all, it specifically addressed Black women’s unique health challenges. Martin pointed out that the statistics are alarming: “Black women often receive late diagnoses or face worse health outcomes for certain diseases.”

Dr. Joann Pinkerton, who leads UVA’s Midlife Center, highlighted how cultural factors can impact whether women seek care. She noted that understanding health risks is crucial. “It’s essential for women to learn about their specific health challenges and the steps they can take,” she explained. By simply discussing health topics, women can start their journey to better well-being.

Education is powerful, Pinkerton added. When women gain knowledge about health, it doesn’t just benefit them; it uplifts their entire community. “Educated women share what they learn with family and friends, enhancing community health overall,” she said.

Events like this are vital. Experts aim to build trust and make women’s health a community priority. “Knowing your health numbers is crucial,” Martin stated. “It helps you address potential issues before they escalate.”

This proactive approach to women’s health is essential, especially in a time when disparities remain prevalent. Supporting and empowering women in this way contributes significantly to community well-being.

For more information on health disparities and women’s health, you can visit the CDC’s Women’s Health page for reliable resources and statistics.

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