Black People Like Me Virtual Conference Series 2024

Black man is coughing into his hand. Behind him is a yellow wall with the words "Black People Like Me" on it, as part of the Trusted Messenger program.
Welcome to Allergy & Asthma Network’s Black People Like Me virtual conference series for 2024.
Join us for virtual conferences throughout 2024 as we address ongoing disparities and barriers to care for the Black community living with allergic, respiratory, and skin diseases.
Catch the Replays: Session 1 | Session 2 |

Session 3: Addressing COPD in the Black Community: Risks, Resources, and Health Equity 

Allergy & Asthma Network presents this Black People Like Me virtual conference to address the disparities and barriers to care for the Black community living with COPD. 

Join our virtual conference to explore the critical issue of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and its disproportionate impact on the Black community. While COPD is a serious health concern for everyone, studies reveal that Black people living in the US are less likely to receive a formal diagnosis and face a higher risk of hospitalization due to the disease. 

Why do these disparities exist, and what steps can we take to ensure greater Black representation in COPD research? Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and contribute to meaningful change in addressing these urgent health disparities. 

Free Virtual Conference: November 5, 2024 | 4:30 PM ET

In this virtual conference, you will:

  • Learn how COPD is diagnosed – and underdiagnosed – in the Black Community.
  • Examine COPD disparities that impact the health and quality of life of the Black community.
  • Get information and advice, including how to manage COPD.
  • Hear directly from a person living with COPD who will share experiences.
  • Learn how to advocate for yourself or a family member living with COPD.
  • Be able to ask questions of the speakers during the event.

CE is not available for this event. 

Moderators:

Catherine Blackwell

Catherine Blackwell, RN, MBA, Chief Health Equity Officer, Allergy & Asthma Network

Headshot of Cedric “Jamie” Rutland, M.D.

Cedric “Jamie” Rutland, M.D., is triple board certified in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care. He completed medical school and an Internal Medicine residency at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. His Fellowship in Pulmonary and Critical Care was completed at the University of Kansas Medical Center.  

All attendees will be offered a certificate of attendance. No other continuing education credit is provided.

The first 100 patients or caregivers living in the United States and Puerto Rico who register and attend the full virtual conference presentation are eligible to receive a $25 gift card. 

You must live in the United States or Puerto Rico and provide a valid address and phone number to receive the gift card. 

The registration information is only for Allergy & Asthma Network use and will not be shared with any outside organizations including government agencies or pharmaceutical companies. 

If you are unable to attend, still register! We will send a link to you after the event so you can view the on-demand recording.

Special thanks to Genentech and Viatris who have provided funding support to make this webinar possible.

Session 1: Addressing Barriers in Eczema and Empowering the Black Community

Recording

On April 9, 2024, Allergy & Asthma Network presented this Black People Like Me virtual conference to address the disparities and barriers to care for the Black community living with eczema.

What we covered

  • Dr. Nancy Joseph explained how eczema looks different on skin of color. She discussed what symptoms to look for, how to know when symptoms are worsening, and treatment options.
  • Speakers discussed how to prepare for a doctor’s visit to discuss eczema.
  • We heard directly from people living with eczema who shared experiences, including how the condition has affected mental health.
  • Catherine Blackwell, RN, discussed how the Black community can get involved in research.
Resources

Special thanks to Incyte, who has provided funding support to make this virtual conference possible.

Session 2: Addressing Barriers in Food Allergies and Empowering the Black Community

Recording

On May 13, 2024, Allergy & Asthma Network presented this Black People Like Me virtual conference to address the disparities and barriers to care for the Black community living with food allergies.

What we covered

  • Food allergy disparities, the burden on the Black community, and how to achieve health equity, from board-certified allergist Dr. Nancy Joseph.
  • How food allergies are often misdiagnosed or under-diagnosed in the Black community.
  • How to manage food allergies at social events, such as family gatherings.
  • We heard directly from a person living with food allergies – Thomas Silvera – who shared experiences, including how to handle severe allergic reactions to food.
  • How to advocate for yourself or a family member living with food allergies.

 

Resources
Special thanks to Genentech, who has provided funding support to make this virtual conference possible.