In a recent op-ed for the American Journal of Nursing, Angelina Jolie discussed the racial bias present in medicine, emphasizing the dangers it poses to people of color. She advocated for improved technology and training to address this issue, highlighting a new method for detecting bruising on darker skin tones, a crucial tool for domestic violence victims who may otherwise be overlooked. Jolie argued that current reliance on visual inspection under natural light puts individuals with darker complexions at a significant disadvantage.
Jolie, a mother of children from various ethnic backgrounds, shared personal experiences underscoring the problem. She recounted an incident where a nurse instructed her to watch for her daughter Zahara's skin turning pink near surgical incisions as a sign of infection. Zahara, who is Ethiopian, prompted Jolie to realize the nurse's advice was not applicable to her daughter's darker skin tone. This experience highlighted the need for medical professionals to be more aware of racial differences in diagnosing medical conditions.
Jolie stressed that even with access to high-quality care, her family faced diagnostic challenges due to racial bias. She called for systemic change, including greater diversity in medical research and training, to ensure equitable healthcare for all. The actress, a long-time advocate for domestic violence victims, has also championed the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.
Separate from her advocacy work, Jolie's ongoing legal battle with ex-husband Brad Pitt continues. She has accused Pitt of domestic abuse during a 2016 plane incident, allegations Pitt denies. The dispute, detailed in court documents, involves claims of physical and verbal altercations. A source close to Pitt maintains the allegations are false, while Pitt's legal team has stated he will address the claims in court.
