Subscribe to Science Friday
When Kemi Doll was in medical school, she learned that Black women are twice as likely to die from uterine cancer as white women, and also suffer disproportionately from other uterine-related conditions. What wasn’t explained was why. Now a gynecologic oncologist, Doll has made it her mission to change these trends and improve care for Black women.
She joins Flora to discuss her new book, “A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing.” They explore the way systemic racism and the normalization of Black women’s pain lead to later diagnoses of uterine cancer and poorer health outcomes for a range of gynecologic conditions including fibroids, endometriosis, and heavy periods. And Doll explains the problem with using reproductive health as a synonym for uterine health.
Donate To Science Friday
Invest in quality science journalism by making a donation to Science Friday.
Segment Guests
Kemi Doll
Dr. Kemi Doll is a gynecologic oncologist, professor at the University of Washington Schools of Medicine and Public Health, and the author of “A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb and Your Survival Guide to Healing.”
Segment Transcript
The transcript is being processed. It will be available 2-3 days after this story’s publication date.
Meet the Producers and Host
About Flora Lichtman
Flora Lichtman is a host of Science Friday. In a previous life, she lived on a research ship where apertivi were served on the top deck, hoisted there via pulley by the ship’s chef.
About Annette Heist
Annette Heist is an audio producer and editor based near Philadelphia, PA.