Sickle Cell Disease: A Cultural History

Sickle Cell Disease can only be understood in the context of racial politics.
Predominantly seen in populations of African heritage, the diagnosis and treatment of this disease from the 1920s onwards draws attention to the importance of culture in biogenetic understandings of disease. Medical practices associated with sickle cell disease also shed light on health care disparities and the cultural construction of pain.
A lecture by Joanna Bourke recorded on 1 June 2023 at Barnard's Inn Hall, London
The transcript and downloadable versions of the lecture are available from the Gresham College website:
www.gresham.ac.uk/watch-now/s...
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[@monicaaparecidaoliveira8063]

Thank you Dr. Joanna for this superb lecture.

[@balyboo5856]

Once we understand that every disease is caused by racism, humanity will truly be on it's way to enlightenment. Thanks to Gresham College for doing such groundbreaking work.

[@SG-wx8zm]

Every disease is clearly not caused by “racism”. Viruses, bacteria, autoimmune disorders don’t typically discriminate.

[@barbararowley6077]

Another excellent lecture. Thank you, Professor Bourke.

[@dominiquehughes3503]

This was so great. Thank you for your research. I hope many hear your studies, and hear the cries of the people. I hope more research is to come, along for better treatments and cures for this condition.

[@sakyiwaadebbie9018]

Insightful

[@tacklesickle]

Inspiring.

[@user-pt5pd6on3e]

I live in Israel and worked for many years as a nurse. I had come across sickle cell problems . What I understand is that the recessive trait has meant that those who lived in malaria areas were less likely to get malaria. Therefore it was a survival trait

[@EcclesiastesLiker-py5ts]

For those struggling to understand what she says at minute 20, its "stem cell transplant used as a cure"

[@josefrietveld219]

11:10 "...it's a very male series of images i'am going to be showing you today. I do apologize." - the fear is strong with this one!

[@EcclesiastesLiker-py5ts]

Less useful than actual information about the disease, but historically interesting.