A recent report sheds light on the alarming prevalence of brain aneurysms among Black Americans, highlighting a significant health disparity. Jacqueline Rhone, a promising young woman, tragically passed away from a brain aneurysm in May 2024. Her mother, Jazzie Ford, has since dedicated herself to raising awareness about this silent killer through the LaLa Speaks Foundation, named in honor of her daughter.
Brain aneurysms, which occur when a blood vessel in the brain weakens and bulges, disproportionately affect Black Americans. According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, African Americans and Hispanics have higher rates of brain aneurysms compared to white individuals. Despite the severity of this condition, federal funding for brain aneurysm research remains minimal, with only $2.08 allocated per afflicted person annually.
Ford’s advocacy underscores the urgent need for early detection and increased research funding. She emphasizes that many families, particularly in minority communities, are unaware of the risks and symptoms associated with brain aneurysms. This lack of awareness often leads to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes.
The report also highlights the broader implications of these disparities. Black Americans face higher rates of other health conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, which can exacerbate the risk of aneurysms. Addressing these underlying health issues and improving access to healthcare are crucial steps in reducing the incidence of brain aneurysms in minority communities.
By raising awareness and advocating for better healthcare resources, Ford hopes to prevent other families from experiencing the same devastating loss. Her efforts are a poignant reminder of the need to address health disparities and ensure equitable care for all.
See: “Brain Aneurysms: A Silent Killer in Black Community” (April 17, 2025)