Fibroids and health disparities: the COllaboration for EQuity in Uterine Leiomyomas specialized center.

Abstract

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas or myomas) are a major issue for individuals with a uterus as well as a disease with profound disparities for Black/African American (Black) individuals. These disparities have roots in early gynecologic practice where procedures such as forced sterilizations and hysterectomy without consent were common in some areas. The COllaboration for EQuity in Uterine Leiomyomas Specialized Center for Health Disparities and Uterine Fibroids is funded by the National Institutes of Health. Using the research framework of the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, informed by the historic legacy of gynecologic surgery, COllaboration for EQuity in Uterine Leiomyomas aims to provide values-congruent care to all individuals with the goal of improving outcomes for all and reduction or elimination of disparities for Black individuals with fibroids.