By JoAnn Weaver | The St. Louis American | Updated
Dr. Jade James-Halbert, Ob-GYN and Care STL Health director of women’s emphasized the importance of prenatal care during the first trimester of pregnancy in reducing Black mothers’ maternal morbidity rate during the 2021 Elevate Conference at Harris-Stowe State University.
The Black community’s economic health is related to its physical health, leaders said during the 2021 Elevate Conference, which targeted ongoing and persistent health issues that plague African Americans.
“If we aren’t able to heal those things that lead us down the path of being healthier, then our economics don’t stand a chance,” Veta Jeffery, Founder of Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce, said during the conference at Harris-Stowe State University.
Vendors set up booths and classes at the conference to provide more community resources. There were fitness courses, free flu shots, COVID-19 booster shots, and mammograms available at the event.
Various community leaders addressed different health disparities, from the cause to the effect during the conference.
According to the conference website, the African American community has the highest indicators for individuals who face access to health care, education, resources, complacency, an acceptance of living with HIV-AIDS, diabetes, hypertension, and other health challenges.