THE
STATE OF BLACK WOMEN'S HEALTH IN CALIFORNIA
Today,
Black women are more knowledgeable regarding their health
issues and are taking steps to remain healthy.
Historically women's health research has centered on
reproductive health while neglecting other health issues
and conditions affecting women throughout their Lifespan.
Black women's knowledge, attitudes and beliefs concerning
health and wellness are significant determinants of
their health status. A central question in the
attempt to improve the health status of Black women
is "What are the most effective approaches to promoting
health and preventing disease in Black communities?"
This is a particularly challenging question because
there is insufficient research on the appropriateness
and effectiveness of health services rendered to Black
women. Black women often suffer jointly
from inadequate access to quality health care and a
lack of availability of knowledge, research, treatment,
and services for health needs. Important factors
contributing to the poor status of Black women include:
| · |
ineffective
health information; |
| · |
lack
of access to health care; |
·
|
poor
healthcare service delivery and financing of services;
and |
·
|
lack
of health related research targeting Black women. |
| |
