DR. LILCELIA WILLIAMS
In the U.S., Black adults are twice as likely as White adults to develop Alzheimer’s disease or Alzheimer’s Disease Related Dementia (ADRD). They also have a higher risk of stroke, which can significantly increase the chance of getting dementia later in life.
Sadly, many Black adults get diagnosed almost three years later than White adults and their symptoms are often worse by the time they receive help. Even after diagnosis, many patients struggle to find care that respects them and understands their culture.
These problems come from a long history of unfair treatment. They’re the result of years of social, economic, and racial inequalities stretching across generations.
Dr. Lilcelia Williams, Research Faculty Member in the University of Pittsburgh’s Psychiatry Department, is working to change these health disparities. Her research focuses on how to improve brain health for people from minority communities who often do not receive fair healthcare treatment.
Dr. Williams studies how certain diseases, like Alzheimer’s and stroke, affect the brain. These diseases can cause long-term disabilities that make daily life harder and shorten lifespan.
Dr. Williams’ latest research project, which is not yet funded, supports brain health in Black men who are 50 years or older. These men may have family members who had Alzheimer’s or dementia. Some may have had head injuries. Others may just be worried about losing their memory or getting dementia in the future.
“Older Black men face a lot of brain-health stigmas,” Dr. Williams says. “Some think memory loss is just a normal part of getting older. Others are afraid they’ll lose their personal autonomy or not be able to take care of their families. Because of these fears, they may wait too long to get help.”
Dr. Williams is a strong voice for Black and Brown people dealing with brain health problems. “Black brain health matters,” she says. “As a proud, full-figured brown woman, married to a dark-skinned man — and mother to children of many beautiful brown shades — I’ve dedicated my life and career to spreading this message.”
Research, including Dr. Williams’, shows that fixing brain health problems in the Black community takes teamwork between researchers and participants. It also needs to be rooted in the community and shaped by its culture from the beginning.
“Researchers must work with trusted Black leaders and groups like the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh and the area’s new Faith Based Health Collaborative,” she says. “We need to meet people in places they already trust, like churches, community centers, and at local events where we can hold workshops and memory screenings.”
It’s also important for researchers and healthcare providers to honor the Black community’s strong tradition of storytelling. To celebrate its cultural wealth. To acknowledge its members’ amazing abilities like code switching and speaking multiple languages. “People want to feel seen, valued, and heard,” Dr. Williams says. “They deserve to be equal partners in science, especially when science has let them down in the past.”
A big part of Dr. Williams’ work is passing along health knowledge, helping people speak up about their experiences, and taking control of their health. “You can take action to help modify risks of developing brain health problems like stroke, Alzheimer’s, and ADRD,” she says. “Small steps can make a big difference for your brain health.”
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Here are some of the steps Dr. Williams recommends based on research:
Lower your blood pressure
Keeping your blood pressure under control, especially in your 40s and 50s, can lower your risk of dementia as you get older. To do this, take blood pressure medicine as prescribed, try to get some exercise each day, and eat more fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. “One easy way to stay active is to go for a daily walk,” Dr. Williams says. “Start slow and pick up the pace over time. It’s even better if you walk with a friend.”
Take care of diabetes
“Type 2 diabetes makes strokes and brain problems more likely,” Dr. Williams says. “It’s best to get diagnosed early and stick with your treatment plan.”
Find ways to relax
“Do something every day that brings you joy,” Dr. Williams says. “Take a bubble bath. Call and talk to a close friend. Listen to your favorite music. Try a yoga or cooking class at a library or community center.”
She adds, “If you’re a caregiver for an elder or for someone with a disability, remember that self-care is not selfish. It’s necessary. And as more Black men become caregivers, we need to talk about the special challenges they face — especially when they care for their mothers or grandmothers.”
Get regular checkups
“Use neighborhood health clinics and mobile screening events,” Dr. Williams says. “The sooner you catch a health problem, the sooner you can treat it. Don’t let fear or shame keep you from getting help for yourself or a loved one.”
Be kind to your brain
“Keep learning and stay socially active,” she says. “Join a book club at your local library. Listen to audiobooks for free using your library card and the Libby app. Invite young people over to chat about music or other interests. Keep your brain engaged.”
Dr. Williams continues, “By doing these things, we protect our minds, take control of our stories, and demand healthcare that sees and treats all of who we are.”
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