My thesis
My dissertation examines the complex landscape of multimorbidity among Black women through a three-stage, mixed-methods approach. In Canada, health data concerning Black women are frequently overlooked or obscured due to inadequate research methodologies and systemic barriers. Consequently, I established a baseline by conducting a systematic review to assess the international prevalence and patterns of multimorbidity among Black women. Next, I shifted my focus to Canada, employing qualitative interviews to deconstruct how Black women conceptualize their health, navigate health systems, and manage multiple chronic illnesses across their life course. This qualitative phase also served to refine the final questionnaire to enhance its cultural sensitivity and validity. The final study uses primary data collection through a pan-Canadian cross-sectional survey to examine the associations between perceived stress, race-based traumatic stress, and multimorbidity, comparing profiles of women with early-onset versus late-onset multimorbidity. Ultimately, through this research, I aim to highlight women’s health, the need for earlier prevention, and equity-driven health management that promote wellness and healthy aging among Black women in Canada and beyond.
My time in the School of Public Health Sciences
My time at SPHS has been transformative, with many trials and triumphs. One highlight was interacting with other students and faculty from Kinesiology and Recreation and Leisure through the Aging, Health, and Well-being seminars. These interactions helped expand my perspectives on health. I was fortunate to complete the Certificate for University Teaching (CUT), which helped me refine my pedagogy as an instructor. Another moment was presenting at ECHO for Clinical Trialists, Investigators & Biostatisticians. Like many PhD students, I have had times when I felt like giving up; however, I have been encouraged by the stories of my research participants to persevere. Their resilience reminded me of the real-world impact my research can have, motivating me to keep moving forward. Overall, these experiences have enriched my understanding of public health.
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