Take Charge of Your Health Today…Black Maternal Health

Black maternal mortality is the higher rate at which Black women die during pregnancy, childbirth, or shortly after giving birth compared to women of other races. The disparity is a major public health issue that happens because of systemic racism and unequal access to (and quality of) healthcare. Education, income, housing, and discrimination also play a part in the higher rate. This month’s Take Charge of Your Health Today centers on how Pittsburgh’s community organizations and academics — including the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh — are working together to lower it. We asked UL head Carlos Carter to share his insight on Family Support Centers and their role in addressing this inequity.Q: Thanks for joining us, Carlos. How is the Urban League working to support the health of mothers and their babies?Carlos Carter: Family Support Centers, in conjunction with Allegheny County, offer the Hello Baby program, which is open to all families in the county. Our Family Development Specialists help families take advantage of benefits like social interaction with other parents, recreational activities, educational programming, and essential items such as diapers and formula. That includes transportation if needed. Our staff also provides follow-up and ongoing support for the Hello...