Breaking the Silence: Uniting the Black Community Against Hidradenitis Suppurativa
As a Black woman living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), I’ve experienced firsthand the frustration and isolation that comes with navigating a chronic skin condition. Diagnosed at just 14 years old, I was left with more questions than answers. What is HS, exactly? How does it affect people with darker skin tones? Can it be cured?
The Search for Answers
I spent countless nights scouring the internet for information, only to find that most resources catered to a European-dominated perspective. The lack of representation was staggering – and it wasn’t just about aesthetics. It was about understanding how HS progresses in Black skin, and how to access proper care.
A History of Misdiagnosis and Mistrust
Historically, Black people have been misdiagnosed and mistreated in the medical community. A 2020 study reveals that this stems from a time when doctors were socialized to disregard Black people’s humanity. It’s no wonder that many of us are hesitant to seek help, fearing we won’t receive the care we deserve.
A Platform for Unity and Empowerment
That’s why I created #BlackWithHS – a platform dedicated to providing a voice and a space for Black people living with HS. Through personal essays, expert Q&As, and educational resources, we’ll tackle a range of lifestyle and health topics relevant to our community.
Normalizing the Conversation
By sharing our stories and educating ourselves about HS, we can start to normalize the conversation around this condition. Armed with knowledge, we can confidently advocate for our health and push for greater understanding in the medical community.
The Power of Community
Research shows that HS affects African and Hispanic communities disproportionately, yet most studies focus on white populations. By uniting and sharing our experiences, we can drive change and propel medical research forward. Let’s break the silence and take control of our healing journeys together. Share your story using the hashtag #BlackWithHS and join the movement towards empowerment and understanding.
Leave a Reply