Minerva Saddler Gray

Fibroids are tumors that grow on or in the wall of the uterus, and about 70% to 80% of women will have them in their lifetime. Black women suffer the most. But fibroids are widely misunderstood and poorly researched. Federal research about fibroids receives far less money compared to other conditions like prostate or breast cancer. While fibroids start small, they can grow to be very large — as big as a grapefruit, or even a watermelon. They are not cancerous, but they can wreak as much havoc as cancer by causing severe bleeding, anemia, pain and complicating the ability to have children. Host William Brangham discussed what they are and how they develop with Dr. Soyini Hawkins, a gynecologist and surgeon who founded the Fibroid and Pelvic Wellness Center of Georgia. Horizons from PBS News, dives into the science, health, technology and environmental issues making headlines each week. Visit the PBS News website to watch this week's episode.