Women's Health

Cancer survivor Erica Austin, of Springfield, is Illinois' ambassador for VOICES of Black Women. The nationwide study led by the American Cancer Society aims to address disproportional mortality rates among Black women diagnosed with cancer and other chronic disease.

Menopause affects half the human population, but women and doctors say it is under researched, misunderstood and often misrepresented.

The average woman waits seven years for a diagnosis of endometriosis, a disease for which early detection is critical. An Illinois State University researcher wants to raise more awareness, and a Bloomington physician has a promising treatment option.