Introduction
Why we built HEAL
GP Dr Itunuoluwa Johnson-Sogbetun on the health gaps facing Black people in the UK and worldwide, and why education is the first step to closing them.
Dr Itunuoluwa Johnson-SogbetunVideo length 13:54
Black Health
Equity Day
Every 12 October, the UK comes together to close the gap in Black health. Add your name, learn the facts and take them to the people who can change them.
Founded by HEAL for Black People
Part of Black History Month
About Us
Black Health Equity Day is a vital initiative tackling the critical issue of health disparities impacting Black communities in the UK. We believe, together, we can transform the narrative surrounding Black health outcomes and create a healthier future.
These health inequities stem from social determinants of health, including factors like socio-economic status, education, and access to healthcare. Historical racial discrimination further compounds these issues, creating a significant impact on the overall health of Black Britons.
12 Oct
Black History Month
Our resolution
We are embracing strategies like enhancing health literacy, fostering community support networks, and promoting self-advocacy. Through education, engagement, and empowerment, we strive to enhance the health outcomes of the Black community.
Why It Matters
Maternal health
Nearly 3×
Black women in England are nearly three times more likely than white women to die during or up to six weeks after pregnancy.
Cancer diagnosis
Black women in England are more likely than white British women to be diagnosed with late-stage breast, ovarian, womb and colon cancer.
Prostate cancer
2×
Black men are twice as likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer: 1 in 4 will get it in their lifetime, compared with 1 in 8 white men.
Source: Prostate Cancer UK, based on Lloyd et al., BMC Medicine, 2015 (opens in a new tab)
An Online Webinar Session
BHED 2026: Where We Go From Here
Join Dr Itunu Johnson for a timely conversation on Black health equity, where we are now, and where we go from here.
Host
Dr Itunu Johnson
GP & Menopause Specialist
- Date
- Monday 12 October 2026
- Time
- 1pm UK time (12pm GMT)
HEAL Articles
Eleven articles by UK doctors on the health conditions that affect Black people differently, from high blood pressure and cancer to menopause and maternal health.
Special feature
Hypertension works differently in Black bodies
A GP diagnosed with hypertension at 27 explains UK blood pressure targets, how to check at home and which medicines work best for Black people.
Dr Itunuoluwa Johnson-SogbetunVideo length 18:44
Cancer risk
Cancer does not have to be more common to be more deadly
Black people in England are more often diagnosed late with breast and other cancers. A UK GP explains the warning signs and screening that save lives.
Dr Itunuoluwa Johnson-SogbetunVideo length 13:27
Empower Her
Black women and menopause
Black women often reach menopause earlier and have symptoms for longer. A GP and British Menopause Society member explains symptoms, HRT and risks.
Dr Itunuoluwa Johnson-SogbetunVideo length 1:19:12