Detroit symposium aims to tackle health disparities facing Black men

Black men, facing higher risks of premature death from heart disease and other chronic health conditions, are often hindered by systemic barriers including educational inequalities and socioeconomic factors. To address these health disparities, the Wayne State University School of Medicine, along with the Wayne Mobile Health Unit and community stakeholders, are hosting the “Brother, Let’s Talk: A Conversation on Black Men’s Health” symposium. Scheduled for April 13 at Hartford Memorial Baptist Church in Detroit, the event aims to shed light on the disparities and health challenges faced by Black men. 

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The symposium will feature a range of services provided by Wayne State University’s Mobile Health Unit, including health screenings for conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and kidney disease, as well as COVID-19 testing and vaccination. Moreover, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in discussions led by prominent figures in the field focused on mental health, physical health, and the importance of regular exercise and yearly physicals. 

Host Stephen Henderson talks with three men involved with the forum: Philanthropist and Entrepreneur Collin MaysDr. Harold Neighbors, Professor Emeritus at the University of Michigan School of Public Health; and Dr. Phillip Levy, Professor of Emergency Medicine at Wayne State University.

Mays, who conceived the idea for the symposium, explains his motivation for helping other Black men improve their mental and physical health. He explains how he lost 200 pounds in a little over three years to get healthier. Dr. Neighbors and Dr. Levy discuss the disparities and societal pressures that impact the health of African American males, the importance of changing one’s behavior and eating habits, and the correlation between mental and physical health. 

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Watch American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit Public TV, WTVS-Channel 56.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to Detroit PBS YouTube Channel & Don’t miss American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.

Catch the daily conversations on our website, FacebookTwitter, and Instagram @amblackjournal.

View Past Episodes

Watch American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.

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