Fatimah joins call for Black health equity during Sickle Cell Awareness Month

Sickle Cell Awareness Month is in September. It's a time to learn more about a disease that affects Black communities more than other groups. Fatimah participated in the Improving Black Health Outcomes (IBHO) BioResource, a research project within the NIHR BioResource that is working to close racial health gaps. She took part to add her voice to a national call to action.

Fatimah said, "We need to be part of the conversation if we want better healthcare." "This is one way we can all help." Join in to make Black health better.

The IBHO BioResource wants to help people of African or Caribbean descent better understand, diagnose, and treat diseases like sickle cell disease, diabetes, hypertension, and mental health issues.

It's easy to take part: just give a small sample of blood or saliva, agree to it, and fill out a short questionnaire. Researchers use the data to create better, more inclusive care and make sure that clinical trials include people from all walks of life.

Fatimah said, "Sickle cell disease is a daily reality for many in our community." "Real change starts with real data that shows how we live."

IBHO is open to anyone of African or Caribbean descent. It is open to people with or without health problems. You can take part at our Clinical Research Facility in Jenner Wing next to the Pret A Manger or online at https://bioresource.nihr.ac.uk/ibho