Black People Like Me Virtual Conference Series 2024

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.

• EczemaInSkinofColor.org
• Health Equity in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
• What is Eczema?
• Eczema Patient Resources (including videos and podcasts addressing skin of color)

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

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.

• What are Food Allergies?
• Living with Food Allergies
• Food Allergy Treatment and Management
• Mental Health and Food Allergies
• Health Equity in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology