In America, black communities are often disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease (CVD). Black populations constitute a higher percentage of adults who suffer from risk factors of CVD, such as hypertension and obesity. They are also twice as likely to die from CVD, relative to white adults. These disparities are seen in many minority groups due to various reasons ranging from diet, to constitutional and structural racism.
February rings in American Heart Month as well as Black History Month! In recognition of these two observances, we thought what better time than now, to highlight two African American men who made major contributions to American Heart Health.
Dr. Daniel Hale Williams was the first black surgeon in the United States to perform a successful open-heart surgery! He was able to defy the odds set before him and pioneer many inclusive organizations advocating for parity in medicine.
Otis F. Boykin was a black inventor whose developments in the area of electrical resistors made it possible for us to have pacemakers today! A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device that prevents the heart from beating too slowly. Up to 3 million Americans live with pacemakers and more than 70% of those people are seniors.
These two men both made ground-breaking strides in advancing medicine, particularly cardiovascular medicine. However, it is important to recognize that some modern-day medical practitioners still face turbulence even today. To honor Black History Month, we acknowledge the essential roles of all undervalued people who have fought for a better today and for inclusivity in medicine.
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References:
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