The Ohio Valley Health Center has recently launched an impactful program titled the "Empower to Know" initiative, which is designed to combat health disparities affecting women, particularly those of color, in the Ohio Valley region. Funded through generous contributions from the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley and the Communities of Color Grant, this pilot program is part of the broader Diversity Health Initiative 3.0.
Central to the "Empower to Know" program is not only raising awareness regarding health issues but also providing essential educational resources, preventive screenings, and support specifically aimed at addressing critical health conditions such as breast cancer and chronic kidney disease. These conditions disproportionately affect women from diverse backgrounds, particularly Black women, who face unique risk factors and challenges related to early detection and treatment.
Understanding Health Disparities
Health disparities refer to differences in health outcomes and access to healthcare services that are closely linked with social, economic, and environmental disadvantages. These disparities are often most pronounced in minority populations. For example, Black women have a heightened risk for aggressive forms of breast cancer, such as triple-negative breast cancer, making awareness of family history and risk factors paramount.
Objectives of the "Empower to Know" Program
The ultimate goal of the "Empower to Know" initiative is to empower women with the knowledge they need to take charge of their health. As Vanessa Palmer, RN, MSN, DNP, poignantly stated, “We want you to be empowered to know that this is time for me to get my yearly mammogram if I’m 40 or above.” The program aims to create a supportive environment where women can learn about important health screenings, understand their risk factors, and access preventative resources.
Program Structure and Offerings
The program features two educational sessions scheduled for September 16 and September 23 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Shiloh Apostolic Faith Assembly in Weirton, West Virginia.
The September 16 session will focus on breast cancer prevention and the necessary steps women should take for early detection, such as regular mammograms.
- The September 23 session will address kidney disease prevention, a growing health concern among various demographics but particularly among women of color.
These free programs will not only provide education but also empower attendees through practical health information and resources. The engagement of local organizations, including Shiloh Apostolic Faith Assembly and Bethlehem Apostolic Temple, reflects a community-oriented approach, addressing the cultural and social contexts that contribute to health disparities.
Target Audience and Inclusivity
While the program primarily targets women of color, the organizers emphasize that "Anyone can attend." Rebecca Turner, a trustee and church treasurer, highlights the importance of inclusivity, acknowledging the diverse backgrounds of community members, including biracial individuals. This approach broadens the reach of the program, creating a welcoming space for all who may benefit from the critical health discussions taking place.
Community and Health Impact
The "Empower to Know" initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to reduce health disparities and improve outcomes in minority communities. By educating participants about risks and encouraging proactive health measures, the initiative could lead to significant changes in health behaviors and outcomes over time.
The partnership between healthcare providers and local churches is particularly noteworthy, as it fosters trust and ensures that health information is delivered in a culturally sensitive manner. When community leaders advocate for health initiatives, it can lead to increased participation and better outcomes, as residents are more likely to engage with programs that resonate with their values and experiences.
Conclusion
The launch of the "Empower to Know" program by the Ohio Valley Health Center highlights the need for targeted interventions aimed at reducing health disparities in vulnerable populations. By offering free educational sessions and resources, the initiative encourages women to take charge of their health and understand the importance of early detection for diseases like breast cancer and chronic kidney disease.
As we continue to unpack the complexities of health disparities, initiatives like "Empower to Know" serve as crucial reminders of the power of community engagement and preventive health education. By fostering awareness and providing necessary resources, we can pave the way for healthier futures for women in the Ohio Valley and beyond.
Ultimately, the importance of community-driven health initiatives cannot be overstated. It’s essential not only to raise awareness but to cultivate a culture of proactive health management, where knowledge translates into action and where women feel empowered to prioritize their health. This approach will not only benefit individual participants but can lead to broader improvements in health outcomes within the community as a whole.
For those interested in attending the sessions, registration can be completed by emailing sisteratish@gmail.com or calling the respective church offices at (304) 670-2039 for Shiloh Apostolic Faith Assembly and (304) 233-8899 for Bethlehem Apostolic Temple. Such participation is not merely an investment in personal health; it is a step toward fostering a healthier, more informed community.
