WASHINGTON — On the last Monday of Black History and Cancer Prevention Month, representation and diversity remain important topics of conversation that matter.
According to the CDC, African Americans have higher rates of getting and dying from cancer. Research shows that a part of that can be attributed to the sentiment that patients of color say they can't find doctors who can relate to them or they are comfortable with.
Well, a new children's book aimed at fighting medical mistrust is hoping to inspire more Black kids to become doctors. "Willis Watson Is a Wannabe" was written by Carmen Bogan, and is the brainchild of the Lazarex Cancer Foundation. It is meant to better health outcomes and equity.
In the book, young Willis finds that not all superheroes wear capes, instead some wear white doctor's coats, and decides he'd like to become a doctor, too.
In a time where less than 6% of physicians in the U.S. are Black, the book is a wonderful way to inspire young kids to think about a career in medicine and at the same time help to build better health outcomes for everyone.
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