Partnering with Beauty Salons to Address Black Women's Health

UPDOs Protective Styles is an academic-community partnership to bring awareness to Black women’s health. In particular cardiovascular disease, intimate partner violence and HIV are highlighted.

UPDOs has a specific focus on addressing the use of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to prevent HIV among Black women. PrEP reduces the chances of getting HIV by up to 99% if taken correctly. UPDOs has 3 components: Stylist Training, a mini-series called The Wright Place, and PrEP Navigation. Learn about each below.

"These videos advocate for us and help promote the overall mission of The HEEAT Lab. People need to be educated and this is a valuable tool to disseminate vital information."

Tamika Hughes

Community Partner

"Presenting this information surrounding health disparities in our community is vital to building innovative methods to reach our people and to make a difference."

Akili Hester

Community Partner