We are proud of our alumni! Our PhD alumna from 2009, Dr. Brittany C. Slatton, currently a professor of sociology at Texas Southern University, along with co-authors Dr. Farrah G. Cambrice of Prairie View A&M University and Dr. Serwaa S. Omowale of The University of Texas Health Science Center, recently published their article “COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Black Women in the US” in JAMA Network Open, the third highest ranked general medicine journal. This qualitative study explored the complex factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Black women in the United States through in-depth interviews with 54 participants conducted between June and November 2021.
The research team identified three primary themes associated with vaccine hesitancy: deep-rooted mistrust in healthcare systems and government institutions stemming from historical medical exploitation; significant concerns about vaccine safety and potential long-term effects, particularly regarding reproductive health; and frustration with ineffective and coercive vaccine communication strategies. The study’s findings emphasize the critical need for a paradigm shift in how healthcare systems engage with Black women, highlighting the importance of building trust, providing transparent safety information, and developing culturally respectful promotion strategies that avoid coercive tactics.
The researchers’ work provides crucial insights for healthcare practitioners and public health officials working to address vaccine hesitancy and health disparities in marginalized communities. The findings have important implications for developing more effective and culturally sensitive approaches to healthcare communication and delivery.
Awesome research by our awesome alumna! Congratulations!