The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) held its 15th Annual Spirit Awards in Los Angeles, CA, celebrating decades of work in promoting the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, among Black and other minority populations.
This prestigious event reflects the organization’s continued dedication to eliminating health disparities and advancing health equity. Tina Perry, President of the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), received the Media Partner. Award for her work on the OWN Your Health campaign, which focuses on health education and empowerment in underrepresented communities. The Distinguished Leadership Award was presented to Michelle Albert, MD. Recipient of the Dr. Walter M. Booker, Sr Health Promotion, went to the Balm and Gilead Foundation. Additional awards were presented to Dr. Foluso Fakorede for his distinguished work in Public Policy. Another prestigious award went to the National Forum for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention. Among the distinguished guests are Dr. Anthony Fletcher, ABC President; Dr. Icilma Fergus and Dr. Barbara Hutchinson, ABC Co-chairs; and honorary co-chair actor Jocko Sims from the popular show New Amsterdam. Tina Perry and actor James T. Pickens Jr. of Grey’s Anatomy served as honorary co-chairs, lending their influence and passion for the cause.
In addition to the honorees, 10 medical students were awarded the prestigious Biosense Webster Scholarship, while five others received scholarships from the Richard Allen Williams Scholarship Fund, totaling $125,000 in donations. These scholarships are part of ABC’s ongoing effort to support the next generation of healthcare professionals and ensure that minority communities are represented in medicine.
Founded in 1974, ABC has grown into a global nonprofit organization with over 2,000 members, including healthcare professionals, community advocates, and institutional partners. For the past 50 years, ABC has been a leading voice in promoting heart health and wellness in minority populations, especially African Americans. Through advocacy, education, and research, the ABC is committed to eliminating disparities in cardiovascular care and ensuring that every person, regardless of race or background, has the opportunity to achieve optimal heart health. 
Addressing Disparities in Cardiovascular Health The Spirit Awards were a celebration and a platform to address critical healthcare issues that disproportionately affect Black communities. Speakers at the event emphasized their commitment to tackling these challenges head-on. They discussed the historical and ongoing barriers to quality care in Black communities and the importance of strategic partnerships to improve cardiovascular outcomes.
The statistics are clear: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to heart attacks, is the most common form of heart disease. African Americans are disproportionately affected by heart disease, with the numbers reflecting a grave disparity:
In 2019, African Americans were 30% more likely to die from heart disease than non-Hispanic whites.
African American adults are 30% more likely to have high blood pressure yet less likely to have it under control.
African American women are nearly 50% more likely to have high blood pressure compared to non-Hispanic white women.
These alarming statistics underscore the need for focused efforts to address heart health in African American communities. Through public and private partnerships, ABC continues to make significant strides in closing these gaps and improving cardiovascular outcomes in communities nationwide.
As ABC celebrates its 50th anniversary, the organization remains unwavering in its mission to promote heart health, prevent cardiovascular diseases, and achieve health equity for all. The Spirit Awards showcased the achievements of its members, who came from all over the world to reaffirm their commitment to improving healthcare for Black Americans and minority communities.
In a world where heart disease remains a leading cause of death, ABC’s work is more crucial than ever. Through advocacy, education, and fostering the next generation of Black healthcare leaders, ABC continues to fight for a healthier future for all.
