The Early Years

During her tenure as California’s Attorney General, Harris was a dedicated advocate for the Affordable Care Act (ACA). She recognized its potential to significantly expand healthcare access for millions of women and took decisive action to defend the ACA in court. Her efforts ensured that women could access essential health services without financial barriers. This commitment to women’s health laid a solid foundation for her career in the U.S. Senate and beyond.

Her Fight Against Fibroids

Harris’s focus on women’s health intensified as she transitioned to representing California in the U.S. Senate. One of her early legislative efforts was the introduction of the Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act in 2020. This bill was geared toward increasing funding for research and raising awareness about uterine fibroids, a condition that disproportionately affects our community.

Her Push for Affordable Healthcare

In 2019, Kamala Harris proposed a plan to prevent the U.S. from paying more for prescription medication than other developed countries. Her plan aimed to cap drug prices at an average of those in different nations.

During her presidential run, Harris also advocated for Medicare for All, a single-payer insurance proposal. She emphasized the deeply personal nature of healthcare for Americans and envisioned a comprehensive healthcare system covering all medically necessary services, from emergency room visits to mental health and reproductive health care. She also proposed empowering the Secretary of Health and Human Services to negotiate lower prescription drug prices, aiming to make health care accessible and affordable.

“There is perhaps no more complicated or personal issue for Americans than health care. I know this from my own personal life, caring for my mother as she battled colon cancer. And I also know it from talking to so many Americans in this campaign — seniors and union members, young people and parents, workers and caregivers,” said Harris in the article she wrote for Medium.

She Prioritizes Black Maternal Health

First, the federal Maternal Health Day of Action at the White House called to improve health outcomes for parents and infants in the United States. “Before, during, and after childbirth, women in our nation are dying at a higher rate than any other developed nation in our world,” Harris stated during the Maternal Day of Action Summit. “Black women are three times as likely to die from pregnancy-related complications. We should do something about that.” She has highlighted the alarming rates of maternal mortality, especially amongst our community. As a Senator, she co-introduced the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act with Congresswomen Lauren Underwood and Alma Adams in 2020. This bill aims to improve maternal health outcomes, particularly amongst our community and other communities that face disparities. As a result, a significant achievement was the passage of the Protecting Moms Who Served Act on November 30, 2021, which focuses on maternal care for veterans. Still, the complete Momnibus package is being advocated for, with the latest version introduced on May 15, 2023.

Her Support for Reproductive Rights

As Senator, Harris co-sponsored legislation aimed at eliminating state-level restrictions, such as mandatory tests for doctors or the requirement for doctors to have hospital admitting privileges to perform abortions. During her 2019 presidential campaign, Harris proposed that states with a history of violating Roe v. Wade should undergo pre-clearance for new abortion laws, securing federal approval before they could be enacted. In December 2023, Harris launched the “Fight for Reproductive Freedoms” tour, aiming to counteract the effects of abortion bans and advocate for the restoration of Roe v. Wade protections.

As reported by CNN, in March of 2024, Harris made history by becoming the first sitting vice president to visit an abortion clinic. She toured a Planned Parenthood clinic in Minnesota, highlighting the ongoing healthcare crisis.

“The reason I’m here is because this is a health care crisis,” Harris said. “Part of this health care crisis is the clinics like this that have had to shut down and what that has meant to leave no options with any reasonable geographic area for so many women who need this essential care.”

Kamala Harris’s advocacy for women’s health is extensive. While we have touched on some of the key highlights, her work spans a much broader spectrum. By looking back at some of her major contributions, we can gain insights into potential future developments. By staying informed, we can collectively strive to create a healthier and more equitable future for ourselves, our mothers, sisters, friends, and women everywhere.

The post Where Does VP Kamala Harris Stand on Healthcare? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

She founded the ZCO/DANCE PROJECT, a space to inspire and showcase the strength of dancers with disabilities, in 2013. We chatted with her about her personal and professional journey, the way she continues to break barriers and redefine life with a disability, and society’s perception of them.

BHM: Can you share with us your journey into the world of dance and the performing arts? What inspired you to choose this path?

Zazel-Chavah O’Garra: I started dancing when my mother realized that I was a hyperactive, mischievous child. She often said, in her West Indian accent, “Zazel walked out of me belly!” She asked my godmother if she knew of any activities she could put me in, and she recommended Ruth Williams Dance Studio, located on 125th and Adam Clayton Powell Blvd in the Theresa Hotel, a landmark building in Harlem. I studied ballet and tap there and fell in love with both.

Ballet captivated me with its structure, technique, and discipline, while tap was exciting as we danced to music by a jazz pianist and drummer. At the end of the year, we performed at Carnegie Hall or Lincoln Center. Wearing costumes and seeing huge audiences in these theaters made me realize I wanted to be in the performing arts. I later left Ruth Williams and went to Bernice Johnson Dancing School, where I met Ben Vereen and Michael Peters.

The intense professionalism at Bernice Johnson led me to audition for the High School of the Performing Arts. Once accepted, I became a ballet major. Entering that school made me live and breathe dance! It was rigorous, competitive, and challenging. Studying dance there led me to Alvin Ailey and the Dance Theater of Harlem. As a scholarship student and apprentice, I focused on becoming a professional dancer.

The Brain Tumor Diagnosis

BHM: Can you walk us through your experience when you were diagnosed with a brain tumor? How did it affect your life and career, especially about your craft?

CO: I had been experiencing symptoms for years: extreme fatigue where I could fall asleep in a minute, a tingling sensation in my right arm, nausea, and headaches. I went to a slew of doctors, had a battery of tests, and they found nothing. Finally, I went to the gynecologist, and she put me on birth control pills, which is what I did. The birth control pills made my head feel like it was exploding, and I started to have weird sensations in my head. I was having partial seizures, but I didn’t know what it was.

Eventually, I went to the emergency room at St. Barnabas Hospital in New Jersey. They tested me and found nothing. As they were discharging me, I mentioned feeling dizzy, so they gave me an MRI. After the MRI, they gave me Xanax and told me to wait for the doctor. When the doctor saw me, she had a sullen look on her face. She said they found a huge mass on my brain, 4 centimeters large! They immediately rushed me to intensive care, and the neurosurgeon came to speak to me, saying I needed immediate surgery. Because of the tumor’s location, they warned me to expect partial paralysis, visual and cognitive deficits, and speech and memory problems.

At that moment, I knew the life I loved would change. However, I didn’t show the doctor or my family any signs of depression. Instead, I declared, “I am a fighter, a warrior woman. God is on my side! I will dance again!”

The Recovery Process

BHM: What was your rehabilitation process like, and how did it influence your perspective on life and dance?

ZCO: I rehabilitated at Kessler Rehab, a beautiful West Orange, New Jersey facility. In rehab, you face the harsh reality of your new life. When you can’t get out of bed, bathe, go to the bathroom, or walk, you feel helpless and dependent on others to help you with basic tasks. They wake you up every morning, get you out of bed, body wash you, and then you’re put in a wheelchair to wait to be moved to the dining room.

I met with several doctors, including a neurosurgeon who once asked if I was suicidal. I responded, “NO, I’m waiting for Macy’s One Day Sale! I always liked shopping. Why would I stop now?” I knew immediately that being among those suffering from brain injuries required staying positive, optimistic, and prayerful. Although my life as a non-disabled dancer was over,

I knew that sitting in a chair with limited mobility couldn’t stop me from experiencing the joy of dance. Even if it were just my eyes and head moving, the passion, conviction, and love of dance for healing came through my soul.

During my recovery from a brain tumor, I faced several specific challenges. When I announced I was a brain tumor survivor, the reactions from people, including friends, were often difficult to handle. One memorable incident involved someone I knew who crossed the street to avoid talking to me. My Caribbean family, although loving and supportive, struggled with how to deal with someone with a disability. One family friend even said, “I thought you were going to be a star, and look at you now!”

To overcome these challenges, I focused on turning setbacks into comebacks. I sought guidance and support through therapy and found immense inspiration in a loving friend who, after a car accident, became a quadriplegic. He taught me to love the arts and explore myself, no matter what happens. His perspective and strength helped me navigate my journey and find my path forward.

Creating a Way to Dance Again

BHM: What inspired you to start the Zazel-Chavah O’Garra Dance Project (ZCODP)?

ZCO: I founded ZCODP as a testament to my journey of rebirth and resilience, finding profound healing and joy through dance despite challenges. Our mission at ZCODP is to create compelling performances that blend wit, soul, intelligence, and power while telling captivating narratives. We are committed to promoting the integration and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in dance and society.

We aim to present fresh, exhilarating, thought-provoking contemporary dance experiences to a wide audience. ZCO/DANCE PROJECT derives from my birth name, Zazel-Chavah (‘Chavah’ meaning ‘living one’), symbolizing the essence of life and the creative power to share that vitality with others, a name given to me by my father.

BHM: What strengths and perspectives do ZCO/DANCE PROJECT dancers bring to your company?

ZCO: Our dancers contribute their passion, life experiences, and resilience. One dancer, a cancer survivor who uses a wheelchair, powerfully expresses herself through dance. She lifts her leg from the chair, performing pulsating, sensual movements to the rhythm of drums, demonstrating to the audience that nothing can stop her from showcasing the joy and artistry of dance.

At ZCODP, we dance just like any other dance company, incorporating a variety of genres, including modern, jazz, ballet, African dance, and now spoken word. We collaborate with renowned choreographers who treat our dancers as artists, not differently abled individuals.

When we take the stage, we aim for the audience to see us purely as performing artists.

BHM: What does Disability Pride Month mean to you, and how do you celebrate it both as the owner of your dance company and in your personal life?

ZCO: I celebrate Disability Pride Month by raising awareness and celebrating the visibility, value, and respect people with disabilities deserve. Everyone needs to recognize and rejoice in our talents. I embrace my disability with pride and proudly claim it.

The post Dancing Beyond Disability: Zazel-Chavah O’Garra’s Story appeared first on Black Health Matters.

BHM: Can you tell us about the McKnight Brain Research Foundation and its work to bridge the knowledge gap on normal cognitive aging?

Dr. Brangman: The McKnight Brain Research Foundation is the only foundation focusing on normal cognitive aging. We concentrate on what is normal as we get older regarding how our brains function and overall brain health. Right now, the foundation is sponsoring a campaign called BrainWorks to spread the word across the United States about maintaining brain health and recognizing what is normal versus what might be concerning.

In my work, I often see many Black people seeking help when their disease is far advanced. At that point, our options are limited. This is why it is crucial for people to understand what is normal and what might be worrisome.

BHM: Can you explain cognitive aging and how it differs from more severe conditions?

Dr. Brangman: Cognitive aging is the usual process our brains undergo as we age. It includes “senior moments,” like forgetting names or words. Like hard drives, our brains have accumulated a lot of information over a lifetime, leading to “slow retrieval.” This means it takes longer to access information, but we usually get there eventually. You might remember a name or word after a while. Misplacing items like phones, keys, or glasses often happens because we multitask too much. Our brains are designed to do one thing at a time, but our culture bombards us with information.

When multitasking, we don’t lay down memories properly, leading to frustration when searching for misplaced items. With normal cognitive aging, you can usually retrace your steps and find the missing object. However, with severe problems like dementia, you might be unable to retrace your steps, or the object might be in a strange place. Our brains are overloaded due to constant information from news and social media, which consumes brain energy.

BHM: What are some common signs that memory problems might be linked to mental illnesses like depression or anxiety rather than cognitive decline?

Dr. Brangman: Well, there can be some overlap. Some people who are depressed may have trouble remembering information because they just can’t put the energy or focus into keeping information straight. Some may have difficulty concentrating and focusing when they are depressed.

A good healthcare provider can help sort out whether your memory problems are due to depression or something more problematic, such as dementia—the same thing with anxiety.

Anxiety is quite common in our society. I have patients who watch the news and get anxious about what is happening and how it will impact them. We have a lot to worry about and be nervous about. Some people with severe memory problems have that, too. Again, if you go to your healthcare provider, they can help sort out what is related to general anxiety and what may be an indication of something more serious.

BHM: What are some early signs that a family member might be experiencing severe cognitive decline?

Dr. Brangman: It’s essential to educate yourself so you can watch for signs in family members. It can be tricky for someone to realize they have a problem, and other family members often notice it. For example, you may repeat a story within a few short minutes. I have had patients who ask their spouse or partner every 5 minutes for the time of a doctor’s appointment. They get the information, but it doesn’t stay. There is an inability to hold onto new information. You might see people start to have trouble with driving, getting lost going to places they usually drive to without any problems.

For example, I had a patient who went to the same hairdresser every week for 20 years, and then one day, due to road construction and a detour, she couldn’t figure out how to get back on the correct road to her hairdresser. She was hours late. They may start to forget appointments or miss paying bills. Now and then, we all miss a bill, but then we realize it and fix it. But I’m talking about people who may not pay their light bill for months and don’t even realize it. They may run out of medications and not get a refill, have problems keeping their house organized, and the mail may pile up. Maybe you notice their clothes are soiled and wearing the same thing repeatedly. It could be very subtle signs.

If you have a mother, father, grandparent, uncle, or anybody in your family and start to notice these changes, you might want to get together with other family members or think of ways to get them to a doctor and get them checked out.

BHM: Why is early intervention crucial for memory problems, and how can it benefit individuals in the long run?

Dr. Brangman: The impact is significant because not everyone with a memory problem has dementia. Sometimes, it can be related to certain vitamin deficiencies or specific medication side effects. A person may think everybody is making a big fuss over nothing. So, you must have a strategy. Maybe you’re working with your doctor or the person’s doctor to see how to get them evaluated and get help. So, you want to ensure that your finances are organized and that you know all the treatment options right now. Some medications can maybe slow down the process a little bit.

BHM: What lifestyle changes can we make to protect our brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline?

Dr. Brangman: You want to do things to help maintain your brain health throughout your lifespan. Our brains are designed to last for our whole life, but there are things that we do every day that can increase our risk of having severe memory problems as we get older.

Exercise is fantastic for your brain! It boosts chemicals that help nerves grow and stabilize and improves blood circulation around your brain. You don’t need to train for a marathon; move more daily.

A daily walk is perfect, aiming for 30 minutes, but you can break it into shorter sessions if needed. Simple exercises using your body weight or even a few cans of corn can do wonders.

Diet plays a huge role, especially in our community. Historically, our diets have been high in fat, which might stem from when we had to do heavy physical labor and needed a lot of energy. Now, we need to shift towards healthier eating. Stick to whole foods, not highly processed ones. Reduce fried foods and high-fat meats like red meat. Opt for chicken, fish, lots of vegetables, and fresh fruits. Be mindful of how you cook your veggies and avoid too much fat and salt.

Alcohol is another area to watch. Contrary to popular belief, there’s no safe amount of alcohol for your body. It’s toxic to nerve cells, especially in your brain. Try to limit alcohol to special occasions and avoid daily drinking. Social connections are healthy. This doesn’t mean scrolling through social media. It means face-to-face interactions.

Our brains thrive on personal connections. So, take a walk with a friend. You’ll be hitting two birds with one stone: exercising and socializing.

Stress is not suitable for your body or brain either. Exercise, meditation, or spiritual practices can help reduce stress. There is emerging research that shows discrimination and racism take a toll on our bodies, and over time, it can lead to chronic diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes. We must avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms like smoking or drinking. Instead, find healthy ways to unwind, even if it’s just a few moments to concentrate on things aside from your current worries. I also want to add that if you have high blood pressure or diabetes, keep them under control. These conditions can increase your risk of dementia. And if you smoke, consider quitting. It’s never too late to stop.

BHM: Why is adequate sleep important for brain health, and what happens when we don’t get enough sleep?

Dr. Brangman: Sleep is another big issue, and it’s necessary for brain health. When we sleep, our brain cleans up all the chemical reactions during the day. Without adequate sleep, this self-cleaning process can’t happen. Many of us have responsibilities outside regular working hours, leading to late nights. Society often values hard work and long hours, which isn’t good for our health.

Another essential thing to know is that there are no magic sleeping pills. Many advertised on TV either don’t work or have harmful side effects on your brain. Similarly, memory supplements are often a waste of money. Instead, establish a routine and turn off screens, smartphones, and TVs at a set time each night to create a quiet, dark environment. Consistency is crucial; your brain needs good sleep every day, and you can’t catch up on a week’s sleep on the weekend. Some people think a glass of wine before bed will help them sleep, but it disrupts deep restorative sleep. Caffeine is another culprit. While this stimulant enables you to wake up in the morning, it can keep you awake at night. So, be mindful of your caffeine and alcohol intake. Your brain will thank you!

The post Brain Aging: What’s Normal & When Should We Worry? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

How it Started

Fortunately, there have been individuals who, like us, value our collective well-being and recognize the urgent need for broader access to mental health services and a shift in the narrative surrounding mental health within our community. One of those individuals was Bebe Moore Campbell; her dedication to mental health advocacy led to the establishment and recognition of National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.

Campbell was an influential American author, journalist, teacher, and passionate advocate for mental health. She used her literary talent to explore the intricate themes of race, family, and mental wellness. For Campbell, this advocacy wasn’t only professional. It was deeply personal, stemming from her own family’s firsthand encounter with mental illness.

She found a way to include the mental health narrative into the complexity of the Black experience. Her notable work, “72 Hour Hold,” tells the story of a mother struggling with her daughter, who has bipolar disorder, and their journey of navigating treatment in an inadequate mental health care system. Campbell extended her advocacy to younger audiences as well. She wrote, “Sometimes My Mommy Gets Angry.”

This book tells the story of a young girl named Annie, whose mother has a mental illness. Campbell recognized the importance of mental health advocacy across generations. Her catalog continues to resonate and uphold her legacy, even after passing. Her contributions have left an irreplaceable mark on literature, history, and the extensive discussion of mental health.

As a result of Campbell’s determined effort, in 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives designated July as Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, nearly two years after her passing. Cambell is recognized nationally for bringing the conversation about mental health in minority communities to the forefront, destigmatizing mental health issues, and shedding light on the disparities.

You Can Make a Difference Too

If you are inspired by Campbell’s initiatives and passion for mental health, there are a few ways that you could participate and make a difference this month. First and foremost, it is essential to understand that advocacy manifests differently in everyone. What you might perceive as “small acts” can be powerful examples of advocacy. Here are some ways that you can make a difference.

Educate Yourself

Learn more about mental health, specifically within our community. According to Columbia University, our community is at a significantly increased risk of developing mental health issues due to historical, economic, social, and political influences that systemically expose us to factors known to be damaging to our psychological and physical health. The disparities within our community are not a new phenomenon. They have existed for generations. Research suggests that we are subject to intergenerational trauma because of enslavement, oppression, colonialism, racism, segregation, and all the systemic remnants that exist today. And setting boundaries is critical in maintaining your mental health.

As reported by the National Library of Medicine, the disparities in mental health care that our community faces can be attributed to a multitude of factors beyond just financial constraints. Many people in our community face the harsh reality of double discrimination. For instance, a Black woman may find herself at the receiving end of prejudice, not only for her gender but also for being a person of color. We may also be confronted with microaggressions; these subtle yet harmful interactions and behaviors perpetuate stigmas associated with our community, pushing us farther away from seeking the help we need. This can lead to institutional mistrust, as we may experience a lack of trust in the medical system, and some of us may even fear the outcome of seeking mental health care.

So, we encourage you to invest time in understanding the disparities in your state or delve into your family’s mental health history. All good things begin with knowledge.

Speak Up

Use what you learn about mental health to speak up. Whether mentioning awareness pointers over a family dinner, using social media, or attending a community event, don’t be afraid to speak up about mental health in our community. You may even find more joy in volunteering. Many organizations are doing incredible work to provide culturally competent care, conduct research, and advocate for policy changes. Find a way to contribute that resonates with you the most and explore your city’s opportunities.

Practice Self Care

Mental health starts with you. Prioritize caring for your mental health and encourage others to do the same. You may want to meditate, immerse yourself in a good book, spend time with friends, indulge in a spa day, or embrace the art of doing nothing. Self-care is different for everyone. Listen to your intuition and do the things that bring you joy. If you need guidance from a mental health professional, don’t hesitate to pursue that journey. Despite the numerous barriers we encounter in accessing mental health care, we deserve quality services. You may want to invest additional time in finding a therapist who aligns with your cultural background. It is okay to experience trial and error along the way; don’t let setbacks deter you from pursuing mental wellness.

In the words of Bebe Moore Campbell, “Knowing who you are begins in the mind.”

The post Minority Mental Health Awareness Month: It’s Origins And Equity appeared first on Black Health Matters.

To bridge the awareness gap, let’s delve into some essential knowledge every mother needs.

What is Cord Blood?

Following a baby’s birth, the umbilical cord and placenta are often discarded and dismissed as postpartum biological waste. However, they hold something very special: cord blood. This is not just any blood; it’s a unique type of blood that remains in the umbilical cord and placenta after childbirth.

What sets cord blood apart is its rich content of hematopoietic stem cells, as outlined by Stanford Medicine. These cells can help strengthen the immune system, and they can even mature and grow into different types of blood cells; they hold the potential to reconstitute an individual’s entire blood supply. Their capabilities make them invaluable in the treatment of various diseases, including leukemia, genetic disorders, and immune system diseases. These reasons point to why as a community, we should think twice before discarding this life-saving resource.

How is Cord Blood Retrieved?

If you decide to store your baby’s cord blood, your healthcare provider will collect it right after they clamp and cut the umbilical cord. As explained by the Mayo Clinic, a needle is inserted into the cord to extract the blood. The blood is then put into a collection bag. This entire process takes just a few minutes and from there, the blood undergoes processing and categorization before it is dispatched for freezing.

Facts You Should Know

If you’re thinking about storing or donating cord blood, it’s important to be well-informed. The Cord Blood Association has shared some interesting, yet not widely known, facts about cord blood. Take a moment to look at these facts:

Collecting cord blood does not harm the mother or baby and does not interfere with childbirth. It is collected by one’s doctor, or the placenta is delivered and given to a cord blood collection specialist. The collection process occurs after the umbilical cord is detached from the baby.

Expecting parents should prepare in advance for the collection of cord blood. It’s recommended to talk to your obstetrical physician or other healthcare providers between the 28th and 34th week of pregnancy about our interest in storing or donating your baby’s cord blood.

Unfortunately, not every hospital offers the option of cord blood donation, so checking in with your preferred hospital is important.

Cord blood is an alternative to bone marrow. It is used in transplants because it contains many natural elements and has amazing blood-forming abilities.

While you can choose to privately bank your baby’s cord blood for potential future use by your own family, donated cord blood can be used by anyone who is a match. Your baby’s cord blood could potentially save the lives of people beyond your family, patients who don’t have a suitable family donor.

When properly stored, cord blood stem cells don’t expire. Unlike bone marrow, cord blood can be frozen and stored for years or even decades.

Will Your Family’s Cord Blood Be a Match?

Most cord blood treatments rely on matching human leukocyte antigens (HLA), these are proteins that are found on most cells in your body. Your immune system uses these markers to recognize which cells belong in your body and which do not. In many cases, cord blood from a family member isn’t always a match. Even though family members share genes, the combination of HLA markers can vary. While cord blood can be a valuable resource, it is not guaranteed to be a match for siblings or other family members. This is one of the primary reasons why cord blood banks and registries are important. They reduce the waste of viable cord blood and increase the chances of finding a match for those in need of transplants.

Public vs Private Cord Blood Banks

When it comes to cord blood banking, public and private cord blood banks offer different services.

Donating cord blood to a public bank is a generous act that comes at no cost to you. Once donated, the cord blood becomes available to any patient in need of a transplant, or it can be used for medical research. Although public banking doesn’t reserve your donation for your family alone, it can contribute to health equity in our community, ensuring that we have the same access to life-saving treatments as patients from other ethnic backgrounds.

On the other hand, private cord blood banking is a personal investment. While it does come with collection and storage fees, it ensures that your baby’s cord blood is exclusively reserved for your family’s use. Initial collection fees can cost thousands of dollars, and annual storage fees can cost several hundred dollars, but for many families, it is worth it. Private banks have more flexible guidelines, allowing them to store any amount of cord blood, regardless of the stem cell count.

If your family ever needs cord blood, retrieving your specific donation from a public bank is highly unlikely. Once you donate to a public bank, the cord blood is owned by the bank, and there’s no guarantee it will be available if needed. If guaranteed access to your baby’s cord blood is what you’re looking for, private cord banking might be the route for you.

Each type of banking comes with its own advantages and challenges. While the financial aspect often stands out in comparison, as a mother, you possess the understanding of what is best for your family. Looking further into your options is always a wise move so that you can make informed decisions that align with your family’s needs.

Why It’s Important That We Participate

Choosing to donate your newborn’s cord blood can contribute to a nationwide effort to create a genetically diverse inventory of stem cells for transplantation and treatments. Patients in need of a transplant are more likely to find a suitable match from a donor of the same ethnic background, and the importance of cord blood awareness, particularly for Black mothers, can’t be understated.

The National Marrow Donor Program has revealed that approximately 70% of patients requiring transplants don’t have fully matched family donors. These patients often depend on cord blood transplants from unrelated donors. Therefore, even if your donation doesn’t directly benefit your own family, it serves as an invaluable contribution to the broader healthcare system.

Engage in conversations about Cord Blood Awareness Month with your loved ones. Spreading awareness can significantly enhance the chances of saving lives and collectively advance the research and treatments for conditions that affect us profoundly. Every conversation counts.

The post Understanding Cord Blood (What Expectant Mothers Should Know) appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What are the symptoms?

PTSD has a wide variety of symptoms, but some everyday things to look out for include:

• Intrusive memories: unwanted recurring distressing memories, flashbacks, and nightmares of the event. Severe emotional or physical reactions to reminders of the event.
• Avoidance: Avoiding thoughts, conversations, places, activities, or people associated with the event.
•  Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Negative self-perception and pessimism about the future. Memory issues, difficulty in relationships, detachment from loved ones, loss of interest in activities, difficulty feeling positive emotions, and emotional numbness.
• Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: Easily startled or frightened, always on guard, self-destructive behavior, sleep and concentration problems, irritability, anger, guilt, or shame.

The symptoms of PTSD can often mimic the unpredictable nature of flares, varying in intensity as time progresses. An individual suffering from this condition might experience periods of relative stability, only to have their symptoms intensify when faced with reminders of the traumatic event. For example, a combat veteran might find loud noises particularly distressing. It is essential to closely observe your loved one and engage in open communication to identify their specific triggers accurately. If they are not already under the care of a professional, it may be beneficial to suggest they consult with a mental health expert who specializes in PTSD. This could be a very vital step in their healing journey.

Healthy Communication is Critical

Healthy communication can make a significant difference in letting your loved one know you are there for them. If communication is a work in progress for you and your loved one, take note of the advice provided by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. They suggest the following:

• Be clear and to the point.
• Be positive. Blame and negative talk will not help the situation.
• Be a good listener. Don’t argue or interrupt. Repeat what you hear to ensure you understand, and ask questions if you need to know more.
• Express your feelings. Your loved one may not know you are sad or frustrated unless you are clear about your feelings.
• Help your family members express their feelings. Ask, “Are you feeling angry? Sad? Worried?”
• Ask how you can help. Don’t advise unless you are asked.

Emotions such as blame, guilt, and shame can create barriers to communication with your loved one. To navigate this, make their mental well-being your primary focus. Recognize and accept your emotions and listen attentively to your loved one’s feelings without attributing any blame. They may need to discuss the traumatic event repeatedly, so instead of urging them to move past it, try to embrace the healing process, even if it seems repetitive. Also, if they choose not to talk, respect their decision. It is more beneficial for them to share their experiences naturally rather than feeling coerced into revealing information.

If you encounter challenges in communicating with your loved one, explore the option of family therapy. This form of counseling can include multiple family members and provide an environment that promotes open communication. Additionally, it can aid in preserving a healthy relationship during your loved one’s healing journey and offer a supportive platform to navigate challenging emotions and difficult conversations.

Dealing with Anger

Some people who have PTSD may feel angry about many things. It is a normal reaction to trauma. Still, anger and violence can hurt relationships and make it complicated for both parties to think clearly.

If your loved one’s anger ever leads to violent behavior or abuse, remove yourself from the situation, go to a safe place, and call for help right away. This type of anger can be frightening, and although you may want to help your loved one, professional help is better suited to such an expression. If your loved one is exhibiting general anger or frustration, the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs suggests setting a time-out system; this includes the following:

• Agree that either of you can call a time-out at any time.
• Agree that when someone calls a time-out, the discussion must stop immediately.
• Decide on a signal you will use to call a time-out. The signal can be a word that you say or a hand signal.
• Agree to tell each other where you will be and what you will do during the time-out. Tell each other what time you will come back.

During the time-out, think calmly about how you will continue to talk things over to find a solution. After the time-out, practice the following:

• Take turns talking about solutions to the problem. Listen without interrupting.
• Use statements starting with “I,” such as “I think” or “I feel.” Using “you” statements can sound accusing.
• Be open to each other’s ideas. Don’t criticize each other.
• Focus on things you both think will work. It may both will have good ideas.
• Together, agree on which solutions you will use.

By reading this article, you are already taking a significant step towards supporting your loved one. PTSD can heighten the risk of other mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, and suicidal thoughts or actions. For those suffering from PTSD, having a supportive network and someone to envision a hopeful future with can be incredibly beneficial. Throughout this journey, it is important not to feel guilty if you don’t have all the answers or fully understand the intricacies of the condition. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at times. Remember, your support can play a crucial role in preventing your loved one from resorting to unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the value of a mental health team. Professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, or family therapists can provide you and your loved one with essential information about treatment options and coping strategies. Your dedication and expertise can work together toward a healthier future.

PTSD Resources include The Anxiety and Depression Association of America, The National Center for PTSD, and The National Alliance on Mental Health.

The post How To Support a Loved One With PTSD appeared first on Black Health Matters.

In light of World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, we spoke with Chris, a devoted St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital parent. Chris is the father to two daughters with Sickle Cell Disease, and following their diagnosis, he joined St. Jude as a full-time employee in their pathology lab. He is determined to find a cure for the disease that impacts his daughters and countless other children, and he has become an integral part of the St. Jude community. Today, he gives us a glimpse into his journey.

BHM: Could you share a little about your daughters?

Chris: I have two daughters with Sickle Cell Disease, Khirsten and Kaitlyn. They are both high-spirit souls who love to be outside and have as much fun as possible in a day!

BHM: What was your family’s journey after your daughters were diagnosed with SCD?

Chris: Our journey started with very little information and knowledge about Sickle Cell and no problems in the first five years of their life. After that, my wife and I started shifting into overdrive, trying to figure out how we could help in our own way along with St. Jude.

BHM: How do you manage to be a supportive father while also managing the challenges that come with your daughters’ SCD?

Chris: Being a father of three daughters is a job all in itself! Having two with Sickle Cell is what I call EXTRA. Normally, we see extra as a good thing, but it was a big challenge for my family and me. It wasn’t easy, but we have learned to adapt to the life God said we could handle!

BHM: How do you advocate for your daughters within the healthcare system, and what advice would you give to parents in similar situations?

Chris: Well, some of what we have learned comes from other parents who have been down the road while we were traveling. We also learned that asking questions can sometimes lead to other deeper questions that you might not want to hear and accept. This, too, is part of the journey. As parents, my wife and I want our children to be “in the know,” as some people would say. We would get information and try to break it down for our girls so they can, in turn, know what to ask as they get older to advocate for themselves. My Wife and I tell other parents about beginning their journey: Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Ask as many questions as possible; if you don’t know what to ask, that’s okay for now. Get as much information as you can! The questions will come. You are your child’s BIGGEST advocate and best hope! Your child is looking at you for all the answers! As parents, that is what we do!

BHM: Why is World Sickle Cell Awareness Day important to you? How can awareness improve the lives of those with the disease?

Chris: Sickle Cell Awareness Day is not well-known enough! To this day, we still have people who haven’t heard of Sickle Cell Disease; we all have heard about cancer. Information is the key to understanding, and understanding brings results! In our conversation with Chris, we gained valuable insights into the realities of living with Sickle Cell Disease from a parent’s perspective. If you are a parent out there trying to manage your child’s sickle cell diagnosis, never be afraid to ask too many questions, and remember that you are your child’s biggest advocate. It is okay not to have the answers to everything but to gather as much information as possible.

In recognition of Sickle Cell Awareness Day, let’s put forth a collective effort to support those affected by the disease and promote understanding the disease. With increased awareness, we have a better chance of finding a cure.

The post Guiding His Children Through Life with Sickle Cell: Chris’s Story appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that is the predominant cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities that are serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is caused by damage to nerve cells in the brain, and it accounts for 60% – 80% of all dementia cases.

The flaws in the healthcare system, paired with the most significant risk factors, such as age and a family history of Alzheimer’s, only make things worse when it comes to diagnosis and treatment. According to the special report, the cumulative stress resulting from structural racism and the disparities in social and physical environments within our community may directly contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, this stress exacerbates the existing healthcare disparities that we encounter. It increases our vulnerability to other chronic conditions that themselves serve as risk factors for Alzheimer’s, including conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Ethnic and cultural bias often influences our healthcare experiences, and unfortunately, Alzheimer’s disease is not an exception. African Americans tend to receive diagnoses at later stages of the disease; this limits the effectiveness of treatments that rely on early intervention. Additionally, although we are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s than our white counterparts, we are still underrepresented in current clinical trials. We represent less than 5% of participants in most new drug and therapy trials, according to the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation. This data highlights the urgent need for change, especially considering genetic variations in drug responses across different races and ethnicities.

As we recognize the disparities affecting our community, we must familiarize ourselves with the signs of this disease. This knowledge can enable us to identify Alzheimer’s in our loved ones and even in ourselves.

The Stages and Symptoms The Alzheimer’s Association recognizes three stages of Alzheimer’s including:

• Early-stage Alzheimer’s (mild).
• Middle-stage Alzheimer’s (moderate).
• Late-stage Alzheimer’s (severe).

Common signs of early-stage Alzheimer’s are:

• Producing the right word or name.
•  Remembering names when introduced to new people.
• Having difficulty performing tasks in social or work settings.
• Forgetting material that was just read.
• Losing or misplacing a valuable object.
• Experiencing increased trouble with planning or organizing.

In this stage, people usually maintain their independence regarding their day-to-day lives, but they may experience memory lapses. Although the symptoms aren’t always apparent, close family and friends can sometimes identify the shift.

Middle-stage Alzheimer’s is usually the longest stage.

It can last for many years. During this time, dementia symptoms are more pronounced as damage to nerve cells in the brain can make it difficult for people to express themselves and perform their typical tasks independently.

In this stage, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Being forgetful of events or personal history.
• Feeling moody or withdrawn, especially in socially or mentally challenging situations.
• Having trouble recalling information about themselves, like their address or telephone number and the high school or college they attended.
•  Experiencing confusion about where they are or what day it is.
• Requiring help choosing proper clothing for the season or the occasion.
• Having trouble controlling their bladder and bowels.
• Experiencing changes in sleep patterns, such as sleeping during the day and becoming restless at night.
• Showing an increased tendency to wander and become lost.
• Demonstrating personality and behavioral changes, including suspiciousness and delusions or compulsive, repetitive behavior like handwringing or tissue shredding.

In the final stage of Alzheimer’s, the dementia symptoms are severe.

People lose their ability to respond to their environment, carry on a conversation, and, eventually, control movement. They may still say words or phrases, but initiating engagement in the late stage becomes difficult. As their memories and cognitive skills continue to worsen, significant changes can occur in their personalities.

Symptoms include:

• Need for around-the-clock assistance with daily personal care.
• Lose awareness of recent experiences and their surroundings.
• Experience changes in physical abilities, including walking, sitting, and swallowing.
• Have difficulty communicating.
• Become vulnerable to infections, especially pneumonia.

Navigating the Conversation of Alzheimer’s with a Loved One

If you suspect that your loved one is experiencing Alzheimer’s, take the initiative to foster open communication about the topic. Some people in the early stages of dementia can identify their memory lapses, and if approached gently, they may be relieved to talk about it. When talking with your loved one, use your knowledge of their personality and preferences to tailor your approach. Brace yourself for a range of emotions.

While some individuals are relieved to discuss their experiences, others may react with denial or anger. Try to emphasize your concern for the person and refrain from prematurely labeling their symptoms as Alzheimer’s. Instead, encourage them to explore this specific term with a medical professional.

If the individual you’re concerned about has a support system beyond you, consider reaching out to them. Ask if they have noticed any of the concerns you’ve observed. This can help you confirm your judgment and set the initial stages of a solid foundation of support as your loved one navigates this disease.

The post Alzheimer’s: Identifying The Signs & Supporting Your Loved Ones appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Obesity disproportionately affects our community as we have some of the highest rates of obesity or being overweight compared to other groups in the United States. The CDC states that Black adults in the United States have an obesity prevalence of 38 percent among 48 states and D.C. There are a multitude of reasons why obesity is heightened within the U.S., and the array of unhealthy food choices on every corner and highway surely doesn’t help.

Of course, the first step to progress is recognizing the issue and learning about the specifics, and hopefully, this can lead us down the path to finding personal ways to mend obesity within the nation. Below are the top twenty overweight and obese cities in the U.S. for 2024. Put together by WalletHub; this rundown used 19 key metrics across 100 of the most populated cities. Is your city ranked among these 20?

While this isn’t a personal attack on any of the cities mentioned, it is a call for awareness. We should strive to improve the health of our cities. Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution for combating obesity, being vocal about this issue can make a difference, whether amongst ourselves, our loved ones, or a broader community.

The post Most Overweight and Obese Cities in the U.S. 2024 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Testicular cancer can occur at any age, but it is most common among males aged 20 to 44 years old, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2024, there will be 9,760 new cases of testicular cancer diagnoses and about 500 deaths from testicular cancer. Although testicular cancer is not common, 1 in every 250 males will develop it at some point in their lifetime.

What is Testicular Cancer?

According to the Mayo Clinic, testicular cancer is a growth of cells that start in the testicles. The testicles, which are also called testes, are in the scrotum. The scrotum is a loose bag of skin underneath the penis. The testicles are responsible for making sperm and the hormone testosterone.

What Are the Symptoms?

The first sign of testicular cancer is often a bump or lump on a testicle. The Mayo Clinic has formulated a list of signs and symptoms of testicular cancer, which includes:

• A lump or swelling in either testicle.
• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
• A dull ache in the lower belly or groin.
• Sudden swelling in the scrotum.
• Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum.
• Enlargement or tenderness of the breast tissue.
• Back pain.

If these symptoms last longer than two weeks, please see your healthcare provider; an early diagnosis is always best.

What Does Your Diagnosis Mean?

The Black community is used to taking the lead in many cancers, but in the case of testicular cancer, white people are at greater risk due to the genetic factors involved in the disease. According to Healthline, white people tend to be four to five times more likely to have testicular cancer than Black or Asian people.

If you are diagnosed with testicular cancer, it is important to know what type of testicular cancer you have. John Hopkins Medicine gave insight into the different types of testicular cancer, including:

* Seminomas.

* Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Tumors (NSGCT).

* Stromal Tumors.

Seminomas are tumors originating in male germ cells. They tend to grow and spread slowly, but some seminomas can grow rapidly. 95% of seminomas are classic, and then there are spermatocytic seminomas, which tend to occur in older men. Seminomas can secrete human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Four main types of NSGCTs can appear alone but often appear mixed, meaning there is more than one type of NSGCT. This includes:

• Embryonal carcinoma is present in about 40 percent of tumors and is among the most rapidly growing and potentially aggressive tumor types. Embryonal carcinoma can secrete HCG or alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).
• Yolk sac carcinoma is the most common type of tumor in children; it responds well to chemotherapy in children and adults. Yolk sac tumors almost always secrete AFP.
• Choriocarcinoma is a very rare and very aggressive form of testis cancer. It can secrete HCG.
• Teratoma most often appears as a mixed NSGCT. They usually grow locally but can appear in retroperitoneal lymph nodes. Teratoma is chemotherapy- and radiation-resistant and best treated with surgical removal.

Then, there are stromal tumors, which develop from the supportive tissues around the germ cells in the testicle. These tumors are rare as they make up less than 5% of testis cancers, and they have an excellent prognosis if treated surgically. There are two types of stromal tumors including:

• Leydig cell tumors impact the Leydig cells responsible for making testosterone.
• Sertoli cell tumors impact Sertoli cells, which support and nourish the developing sperm.

Tests and Detection of Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is usually found because of symptoms that a person is having but it can also be found when tests are done for another condition, according to the American Cancer Society. When going to see a doctor regarding the concern of testicular cancer, the doctor may give you an exam to detect any swelling, lumps, or tenderness. The doctor may also examine your abdomen, lymph nodes, and other parts of your body to look for signs of cancer spread. To better assess your condition, you may also partake in the following procedures:

• Ultrasound of the testicles.
• Blood tests for tumor markers and the secretion of HCG and AFP can be found in the blood; this will signal your doctors to look further into the possibility of cancer.
• Biopsy is a rare method for testicular cancer.
• Scans and imaging tests, including x-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans.

Treatment Options

Testicular cancer treatment often involves surgery and chemotherapy, according to the Mayo Clinic. Still, your treatment plan is unique to your specific needs, and only your healthcare team can provide you with the best plan.

Some common forms of treatment include:

* Surgery.

* Chemotherapy.

* Radiation therapy.

* Immunotherapy.

Surgery can be conducted to remove the testicle or nearby lymph nodes. Chemotherapy treatment uses strong medicines, either implemented orally or through intravenous injection (IV), to kill cancer cells; this can aid in treating cancer spread as well. Radiation therapy includes the use of special high-energy X-rays that can kill cancer cells and or alter their ability to multiply. Then, there is immunotherapy, a cancer treatment method that uses drugs and vaccines to aid white blood cells in identifying and attacking the cancerous cells. This is sometimes used in advanced testicular cancer cases.

It is essential for you to ask your medical team any questions that you have regarding treatment, as every approach has its risks, advantages, and disadvantages. Also, some doctors may suggest a mixture of treatments; be prepared for this, as your treatment plan will be personalized just for you.

Although there is cause for concern regarding testicular cancer, there is also room for optimism as studies have shown that the average five-year survival rate for Black males with testicular cancer is 88.8%, as reported by VeryWellHealth. So, stay informed, and good health is within reach with the right medical care.

Risk Factors

Genetics are heavily to blame for testicular cancer diagnoses as having a parent with the disease increases your risk by nearly 400%, and having a sibling with the disease increases your risk by more than 800%, according to VeryWellHealth.

There are a few risk factors beyond family genetics that can increase your risk for testicular cancer. These include:

•  Being between the ages of 20 and 34.
• Having an undescended testicle (known as cryptorchidism).
• Having had testicular cancer before.
• Having human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Your Medical Team

The type of medical team you have is based on the treatment options you need and the severity of your condition. The American Cancer Society reports that different types of doctors may be on your treatment team, including:

• Urologists: surgeons who specialize in treating diseases of the urinary system.
• Radiation oncologists: doctors who treat cancer by using radiation therapy.
• Medical oncologists: doctors who treat cancer with medicines like chemotherapy.

Although there is cause for concern regarding testicular cancer, there is also room for optimism as studies have shown that the average five-year survival rate for Black males with testicular cancer is 88.8%, as reported by VeryWellHealth. So, stay informed, and good health is within reach with the right medical care.

The post Understanding Testicular Cancer: From Diagnosis to Treatment appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Mayo Clinic states that melanoma typically starts on the skin when exposed to the sun. The common areas where melanoma may be found include the following:

• Arms.
• Back.
• Face.
•  Legs.

In some cases, melanoma can develop in the eyes, and although it is rare, it can form inside the body and affect areas such as the nose or throat.

MedicalNewsToday reports that the most common form of melanoma in our community is acral lentiginous melanoma, which has a prevalence of 35-60%. This type of melanoma develops on the soles of the feet and under the nails.

It tends to occur in less visible areas, combined with its ability to blend in with our complexions, exacerbates the rate of late diagnoses and introduces more risk to our community.

What Causes Melanoma?

The exact cause of all melanomas is not determined, although many cases can be linked to ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. One of the most common sources of UV radiation is natural sunlight. As we enjoy outdoor activities, we must also prioritize safeguarding our skin with sunscreen and taking precautions against sun exposure.

Healthline reports that DNA damage within melanocytes can trigger the uncontrolled growth of new skin cells. As these cells build up, they can eventually develop into a tumor.

So much remains unsaid regarding the exact causes of melanomas and DNA damage. Many specialists attribute them to genetic and environmental factors.

How to Identify Melanoma on Your Skin

Recognizing the signs of melanoma can be challenging, especially on darker skin. Melanomas may be less noticeable due to their ability to camouflage themselves. These skin cancers can start as new growths or manifest as existing moles or freckles change. Understanding the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) ABCDE guidelines for melanoma detection can help you achieve an early diagnosis. Be mindful of any changes in your skin, as this is the most common sign of skin cancer. Whether it is a new growth, a sore that won’t heal, or a change in a mole, don’t hesitate to bring it up to your doctor.

For melanoma specifically, try to remember this list of warning signs:

A. Asymmetrical: Does the mole or spot have an irregular shape with two parts that look very different?

B. Border: Is the border irregular or jagged?

C. Color: Is the color uneven?

D. Diameter: Is the mole or spot more significant than the size of a pea?

E. Evolving: Has the mole or spot changed during the past few weeks or months?

If you answered “yes” to any of the questions above, consider visiting your healthcare provider to be safe.

The Stages & Diagnosis

Healthline points out that melanomas consist of the following stages:

• Stage 0 (Melanoma in situ): The melanoma is only in the epidermis, the top layer of skin.
• Stage I: Low-risk primary melanoma with no evidence of spread. This stage is curable with surgery.
• Stage II: Features indicate a higher risk of recurrence, but there is no evidence that cancer has spread to other organs.
• Stage III: The melanoma has spread to nearby lymph nodes or nearby skin.
•  Stage IV: The melanoma has spread to more distant lymph nodes or skin or has spread to internal organs.

The first step toward diagnosing melanoma is a physical examination of the skin. Your doctor will carefully check for markings or moles on your skin that may suggest the presence of cancerous cells. In addition to examining the common areas associated with melanoma, they may also assess other regions such as the:

• Palms.
• Scalp.
• Feet, including your soles and between toes.
• Genitals.
• Buttocks.
• Eyes.
• Mouth.

To reach a diagnosis, your doctor may also use several tests, such as the following:

Computed tomography (CT): CT scans use potent X-rays to get detailed images of where cancer may have spread.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRIs use magnets, radio waves, and an injected substance called gadolinium to get highly detailed, cross-sectional images of your body to find where cancerous cells have spread.

Positron emission tomography (PET): PET Scans involve injecting radioactive glucose that is tracked by a scanner. This helps doctors detect areas of high chemical activity in your body where diseased or cancerous tissue might be present. When doctors suspect that a mole might be cancerous, they may recommend a biopsy. During this procedure, a skin sample is removed and sent to a laboratory for testing to detect the presence of melanoma cells. If the doctor believes that melanoma has spread, they might suggest a lymph node biopsy. This involves taking a tissue sample from nearby lymph nodes, often with an injection of dye near the tumor site. These procedures can be vital for diagnosing and staging melanoma.

Treatment

If you have been diagnosed with melanoma, you will most likely be working with dermatologists as well as surgical and medical oncologists. Your treatment depends on the stage of your cancer and your unique health needs. It can be helpful to know the treatment options out there. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, some of the most common forms of treatment include:

• The surgical removal of the melanoma.
• Immunotherapy: it boosts the body’s ability to fight melanoma and other cancers by using synthetic versions of natural immune system proteins or by enabling the release of cells that attack tumors.
• Targeted therapy: uses drugs and other agents to attack melanoma by inhibiting the action of defective genes and molecules.
• Chemotherapy: a systemic approach to stopping tumor growth using certain medicines that kill or stop cancer cells from multiplying.
• Radiation: a localized treatment that directs high-energy X-ray beams to penetrate and destroy the tumors or keep them from growing.

Ask Questions

Although Black Americans don’t lead in melanoma diagnoses, we have a 26% higher risk of death from melanoma than white Americans, as reported by Northwell Health. Given the rarity of melanoma in our community, both healthcare professionals and the broader medical community may overlook the possibility of skin cancer or lack experience in identifying melanoma on our skin. Therefore, we need to monitor our skin and proactively engage with our doctors by asking questions such as:

• How far has the melanoma spread within or beneath the skin?
• Has the melanoma spread to other parts of my body?
• What kinds of tests will I need before we can decide on treatment?
• Will I need to see any other types of doctors?
• What type or subtype of melanoma do I have?
• If I’m concerned about the costs and insurance coverage for my diagnosis and treatment, who can help me?

The best type of diagnosis is an early one. We highly recommend prioritizing regular skin checks, communicating with your doctors, and practicing sun safety.

The post What is Melanoma? (Yes, We Can Get Skin Cancer Too) appeared first on Black Health Matters.

In our pursuit of more clarity, we turned to a trusted expert in the field, Dr. Eboni January, a board-certified obstetric gynecologist deeply committed to women’s health and education.

BHM: Why are Black women disproportionately affected by late diagnoses of uterine and endometrial cancer, and what can be done to address this issue?

Dr. January: Black women are disproportionately affected by late diagnoses of uterine and endometrial cancer due to disparities in healthcare access, socioeconomic status, and implicit biases in the medical system. Studies have shown that Black women are less likely to undergo regular gynecological exams and may experience delays in diagnostic testing and treatment initiation. To address this issue, we need to increase awareness and education about uterine cancer within Black communities, improve access to healthcare, and train healthcare providers in cultural competency to reduce these disparities.

Black women may face longer wait times for appointments, fewer referrals to specialists, and inadequate follow-up care.

Addressing these disparities requires systemic changes, such as expanding healthcare access, improving provider education on implicit biases, and fostering a more inclusive and culturally sensitive healthcare environment.

BHM: What are the most common symptoms of uterine and endometrial cancer that Black women should be aware of, and why might healthcare providers overlook these symptoms?

Dr. January: The most common symptoms of uterine and endometrial cancer include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and unexplained weight loss. Healthcare providers can sometimes overlook these symptoms due to implicit biases and a tendency to attribute them to benign conditions, especially in Black women. Both patients and providers need to recognize the significance of these symptoms and advocate for thorough evaluations to help in early detection.

BHM: How can tools be improved to ensure better detection rates?

Dr. January: Currently, there is no specific screening tool for endometrial cancer, but tools like transvaginal ultrasound and endometrial biopsy are used for diagnosis when symptoms such as vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain are present. To improve detection rates, we need to develop more sensitive diagnostic methods, incorporate genetic and molecular markers, and ensure regular follow-ups and patient education occur. Research into tailored screening protocols that consider racial and genetic differences can also be beneficial.

BHM: How important is the patient-doctor communication in early detection of uterine/endometrial cancer, and what steps can be taken to improve this for Black women?

Dr. January: Effective patient-doctor communication is crucial for early uterine and endometrial cancer detection. As healthcare providers, we must ensure patients feel comfortable coming to us. We should understand that although patients are adults, we are the experts, and consideration of the social determinants of health is crucial. Improving this includes training healthcare providers in cultural competency, encouraging open and respectful dialogue, and ensuring patients feel heard and understood. Providing patient education materials that are culturally relevant and accessible can also enhance communication and early detection efforts.

BHM: Considering that obesity and diabetes are known risk factors for uterine cancer, how can awareness and management of this risk be better communicated and managed in our community?

Dr. January: Obesity and diabetes are significant risk factors for endometrial cancer, as they can lead to hormonal imbalances and chronic inflammation, which may promote cancer development. Black women have higher rates of obesity and diabetes, contributing to an increased incidence of endometrial cancer. Addressing these risk factors through lifestyle interventions, preventive care, and targeted education is essential for reducing cancer risk.

2015 I developed a text weight loss coaching program in response to my patients. Working with the underserved community, I found uterine cancer in women under the age of 45 who had excess weight. Due to the lack of a screening tool like we have for cervical cancer, I decided to help prevent it through weight loss and preventive health measures. Awareness and management of obesity as a risk factor for uterine cancer can be improved through targeted community outreach programs, culturally sensitive health education, and accessible weight management resources. Healthcare providers should engage with community leaders and organizations to disseminate information and support lifestyle interventions that promote healthy eating and physical activity.

BHM: What are the main factors contributing to the higher mortality rates of uterine and endometrial cancer among Black women compared to other demographics?

Dr. January: Higher mortality rates among Black women are attributed to factors such as later stage at diagnosis, less access to high-quality care, and potential biological differences in tumor behavior. Socioeconomic disparities and implicit biases in treatment recommendations also play significant roles. Improving access to timely and high-quality care, addressing socioeconomic barriers, and conducting research on tumor biology specific to Black women can help reduce these mortality rates.

BHM: Why is it important for Black women to participate in clinical trials and genetic research related to uterine cancer?

Dr. January: Participation in clinical trials and genetic research is vital to ensure that findings apply to diverse populations. It helps in understanding how uterine cancer affects Black women specifically and can lead to the development of tailored treatments and interventions. Encouraging participation requires researchers like myself to build trust, address historical mistrust, and ensure that trials are accessible and inclusive.

The battle against uterine and endometrial cancer in our community is complex; we face unique challenges when it comes to diagnoses and the specific types of cancer we encounter. Let’s continue to raise awareness about what we need to decrease our mortality rates. Every step we take towards more awareness, prevention, and early detection holds the potential to save lives. For all those reasons, we must keep this conversation going and push it beyond our recognition into active engagement to ensure change is documented.

The post Endometrial & Uterine Cancer: Combating Black Women’s Rising Rates appeared first on Black Health Matters.

BHM: How can mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or relaxation techniques benefit lupus patients? How can they implement these things into their lives?

Dr. Sydne Ford-Norton: Mind-body techniques such as practicing mindfulness, yoga, and meditation can help with symptom management and overall well-being. Many patients with lupus may have been told that stress can exacerbate lupus symptoms. However, their doctors may not have discussed steps to reduce stress or the stress response. Regular meditation, yoga, and mindfulness help to improve mood, fatigue, and mental clarity, as well as lower cortisol and other stress hormones that lead to an inflammatory cascade in the body. It may also help reduce pain by reducing inflammation and how patients perceive pain, lowering the need for pain medication.

I like to have my patients start with small goals and lower expectations when beginning, considering that mind-body techniques are a practice. Starting with just 5-10 minutes daily will yield many positive benefits. With regular daily practice, you may be able to increase the time spent…or not. Either way is ok. The key is to be consistent with what can fit into your lifestyle and not feel like it is a burden or another task on your list of things to do.

BHM: What lifestyle modifications can lupus patients adopt to support their overall well-being? Regarding stress reduction techniques, exercise, and getting adequate rest.

Dr. Sydne Ford-Norton: Everyone, including patients with lupus, would benefit from lifestyle modifications that intentionally prevent or reduce inflammation and stress. This includes getting adequate sleep, practicing good sleep hygiene, removing toxins as much as possible, such as smoking, alcohol, illicit drugs, processed foods, and harmful chemicals, regular exercise, and eating a plant-predominant, whole foods diet.

BHM: What complementary therapies may be helpful for lupus patients?

Dr. Sydne Ford-Norton: Biofeedback, aquatic therapy, massage therapy, and acupuncture may be helpful adjuvant therapies for pain control and relaxation.

BHM: What should lupus patients know when looking for herbs or supplements to support their immune health?

Dr. Sydne Ford-Norton: When it comes to herbs and supplements, patients with lupus should always talk to their primary care doctor, their rheumatologist, or an Integrative Medicine doctor before starting any new regimens given possible interactions with medications or the potential to exacerbate the disease process. Many people believe that just because something is “natural” means it is safe for everyone to take, and unfortunately, this is not the case. It is always best to consult someone familiar with your medications, specific diseases, and the risks and benefits of specific herbs and supplements.

BHM: Are there specific dietary or lifestyle recommendations or restrictions to help manage inflammation and support immune health in lupus patients?

Dr. Sydne Ford-Norton: YES! An anti-inflammatory diet is essential in managing inflammation, the immune system, and overall health. We now have a lot of data on foods that are pro-inflammatory, foods that damage the gut and weaken the immune system and foods that are nourishing and help repair the body. We generally want a plant-predominant diet, mainly from fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes. These are the foods that provide most of our nutrients and antioxidants. We also want to avoid or limit pro-inflammatory foods such as processed sugars, convenience foods (packed or fast foods), and animal products. There are many resources online and cookbooks to learn how to eat an anti-inflammatory diet.

It must be said, however, that when beginning the healing journey, some patients may find benefit in working with an Integrative Medicine provider and explore more restrictive diets such as Paleo, Autoimmune Paleo Protocol (AIP), or other elimination diets that may be more helpful and tailored to the specific person and their gut health and nutrition needs.

BHM: Do you know of any resources or classes available for patients to learn stress-reduction techniques?

Dr. Sydne Ford-Norton: There is an 8-week group training program called Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) that is helpful for people living with stress and chronic diseases. It has been validated by studies and shown to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress and improve sleep and chronic pain levels. Classes may be found in person and online and are put on by organizations throughout the USA.

So, there you have it! Taking steps to manage your lupus at home is not only possible, but it can be empowering as well. If our interview with Dr. Ford-Norton piqued your interest, we encourage you to delve deeper into this approach. Take a moment to explore the topics that resonate with you, discuss your thoughts with your healthcare providers, and most importantly, don’t give up on finding a health management strategy that aligns with your unique needs.

The post Lupus Management With Holistic & Integrative Medicine (What You Should Know) appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Initially, clutter may appear innocuous; we might justify it as piles of items we’ll eventually address. Over time, clutter can slowly impact our mental and emotional well-being, disrupting the balance we seek in our pursuit of productivity and wellness.

When we speak of movement hindrance, it extends beyond our physical ability to walk freely and enjoy our spaces; it also pertains to cognitive functioning, impacting our ability to focus and process information efficiently.

Identifying Your Clutter

Usually, clutter accumulates because we attach various meanings to our possessions, providing us with reasons to keep them. Navigating the fog of memories and sentimental origins during decluttering can be challenging. Fortunately, VeryWellMind has curated a list of questions you can ask yourself to self-diagnose and determine whether you require thorough decluttering. Take a look at the following questions:

• Do you own anything you never use or no longer need, like clothes that don’t fit or old electronic devices?
• Do you have a “junk drawer” of things you think you’ll need but never use? e
• Do you buy new items to replace lost ones in your house?
• Do you lack access to specific spaces in your home (i.e., you can’t open the door to your basement or park in your garage)?
• Are you afraid to have houseguests over because of the messy state of your home?

If you agree with any of the questions above, you probably have some clutter in your home, but don’t worry; we’ll discuss a few approaches to decluttering.

How to Declutter

Before you begin tackling your clutter, it is essential to remember that it may not be easy. The idea of getting rid of a ton of items usually goes smoothly when it is theoretical, but once you are sitting down and weighing out the sentimental value of a pile of t-shirts, it can be much harder to have helpful discernment. The first piece of advice would be to give yourself grace and be patient; depending on your clutter level, it may not be solved within one day.

Along with being patient, try to be realistic. Setting aside enough time to go through your belongings is necessary. You may dedicate an entire weekend to minimizing your clutter or find more peace in doing half-hour increments over an extended period. Find the time recipe that works best for you.

According to Psychology Today, when decluttering, starting small is best. Give yourself manageable goals, such as tackling one pile of clothes or a messy drawer. When you complete that task, allow yourself to feel proud and approach a new task during your next decluttering session. Another helpful tip is to ask for help. Although bringing someone into your messy space may be nerve-wracking, don’t hesitate to lean on your friends, family, or professionals to help. Sometimes, an outsider’s perspective can help you to detach from possessions that no longer serve you.

If you are struggling with parting with specific mementos, embrace the beauty of technology and snap a photo. At times, we have an abundance of items that we love but cannot afford to store. Taking a picture of the items allows you to keep them while freeing up some physical space. It can also be helpful to decide what you will do with your unwanted items. You may consider donating your items to people needing them or giving them to a thrift store. If you are interested, look up shelters or donation centers in your area to find a place that aligns with your values. Decluttering is about more than freeing up physical space; it also allows you to help others.

As we know, decluttering is a process, and some may say it is a skill that can be sharpened. Just as you may crack open a cookbook to strengthen your knowledge of a baking recipe, consider learning about decluttering.

There is so much media on decluttering regarding different organization methods, maintaining an organized space, and even shopping and purchasing with excellent and thorough intent. Just as decorating your house is a unique and personal experience, decluttering and the emotions attached to it are similar. Whether it be a book, podcast, article, or YouTube video, spend some time to find the method and approach that resonates with you the most.

One approach is the three piles method, which the New York Times mentioned. Based on the area you are decluttering, create three piles: a keep pile, a donate pile, and a discard pile. When you analyze your items, go with your gut, the initial assessment and response. For instance, if you pick up a pair of jeans and immediately think, “These are nice, but I’ll never wear them again,” toss those into the donate pile so someone else can enjoy them. Focusing on that initial thought can take you very far when deciding on the fate of your items.

Yes, Clutter Can Disrupt Your Wellness

If you are still a little wary of the importance of decluttering your space, let’s explore clutter’s impact on our wellness. Yes, it is true. Clutter impacts our mental health more than we may notice. As reported by VeryWellMind, some ways that clutter can disrupt our lives include:

• Increased stress levels.
• Difficulty focusing.
• Procrastination.
• Difficulty with relationships regarding shared space.
• Lower quality of life.

When you are in your home, you should be able to relax and be in a place of comfort, but unfortunately, clutter can manipulate that experience. According to a review by Stanford University, a study of 32 families found a link between high cortisol, the stress hormone, levels of women with a high density of household objects.

Clutter can create chaos when you are subconsciously or consciously unsettled in your home. It can disrupt your entire approach to life. If your kitchen is always messy, you may opt to order out instead of embracing healthier options that can be cooked at home. Family members sharing the same space may experience tension due to sensitivities toward disorder. Procrastination may happen as you aren’t excited to work on a project at a messy desk. Over time, clutter can lessen your quality of life as it attacks different facets of your wellness and weakens your focus as you may lose your sense of purpose. Being overstimulated by your space can significantly impact your health and productivity as your mind struggles to absorb the presence of clutter and the objectives of your day-to-day life.

Clearing your clutter allows you to regain mental clarity and stay on track with your goals.

Enlist Professional Help If You Need It

We’ve mentioned reaching out for help from a professional who is skilled in organizing, but it is also okay to seek psychological help regarding clutter. If clearing your home of clutter is extremely difficult and taxing on your mental and emotional well-being and your interpersonal relationships, consider the possibility of seeking help from a mental health professional. There is nothing wrong with needing someone with mental health expertise to guide you through those feelings, as your clutter may be a sign of something deeper that needs healing. A mental health professional can help you identify the severity of what you are experiencing and equip you with healthy coping mechanisms to navigate the emotions you feel regarding decluttering.

The post Declutter Your Space To Improve Mental Clarity appeared first on Black Health Matters.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Jasmine to explore the roots of her advocacy and the pivotal moments that led to the creation of the summit.

BHM: What led you to become an advocate for HS?

Jasmine Espy: I was diagnosed with HS when I was 13. So, dealing with HS at such a young age and at that time, not having many resources for treatment, physicians, knowledge surrounding HS, how it would progress, and what it would look like on my skin as a Black woman, really led me to want to be an advocate. I realized there were people like me, young or well into their journeys with HS, who also didn’t have the same resources. My advocacy came from wanting to provide the community with information that they were missing and to heal my inner child because dealing with something like HS, especially dealing with the most extreme symptoms of HS, I know all too well what isolation, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety and shame for my body feels like. I didn’t want anyone else in the community or anyone else who has HS or thinks they have HS to also deal with that as well. That’s what led me to become an advocate.

BHM: How did your personal experience with HS shape your perspective on life and health?

JE: My personal experience shaped my whole journey with HS, being an advocate and being a nonprofit founder, everything that I do for HS and my journey has shaped it. I came from a privileged space as my parents had great healthcare when I was growing up. I experienced delays and gaps, but I also had access to healthcare, which is something that can be uncommon for patients dealing with HS. In my journey, I had great healthcare, but I still was misdiagnosed.

I went to my physicians and told them about the symptoms that I was experiencing, and they told me that I had MRSA. Around the age of 14, they even told me that I had a rare blood disorder and that I was going to die potentially. Feeling the weight of those diagnoses really impacted my journey at that young age because I was already dealing with so many health issues and having so many issues interacting with my peers—dealing with bullying and feeling isolated. That deepened my feelings of insecurity, isolation, and feeling like I was disconnected from my body and community.

I was rushed into surgeries and didn’t have the best results or even find an HS specialist who could help me. All these different parallels that I experienced have really influenced my desire to provide people living with HS, their caregivers, and supporters in the community with information on what it is like to live with HS and to provide them with tips to navigate the journey.

My journey heavily influences how I show up because I believe my experience is not an anomaly. It is very common in the community. There may be some nuanced things because everyone who deals with HS has a different experience. I would like to describe HS patients as snowflakes, we can look at the geometric patterns of snowflakes and each one of those patterns are different, HS patients mirror that. We have similarities, and we have differences, and I really want to use my experience and also the experiences that I hear from other patients to help shape the work that I do and how we influence the community not only through my advocacy work as an individual living with HS but as a nonprofit that is disseminating information for people who are living with HS.

BHM: Can you tell us more about your documentary, “My Gold Lining: A Documentary on Hidradenitis Suppurativa?” What inspired you to create it, and what impact do you want it to have?

JE: This documentary is something that I created in grad school at the University of Southern California. I graduated from the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism in 2019. For our master’s thesis, we had to create some form of media to present. I decided to do a documentary on HS for Black women. At that time, some Black women were talking about their experiences online, like on YouTube and some on Instagram, but there wasn’t a lot of information, and the information that was available online was in a very sterile manner. We were numbers in a system rather than people with faces, experiences, feelings, and perspectives. Because I have a background in multimedia journalism, I was a journalist for over a decade. I wanted to use my connections and experience in storytelling to hone in on this community and to use it to tell my story and other Black women’s stories.

One of my inspirations was “Unrest” by Jennifer Brea; she is a woman living with multiple sclerosis (MS). She created a documentary from her perspective but then brought in other community members and people experiencing MS; she was the inspiration behind the structure of my documentary. The documentary is more artistic because we used the metaphor of Kintsugi, a Japanese pottery repair technique, to explain HS’s impact. Our goal is to create this documentary for it to be an education piece for the community but also for physicians and medical students. We want to create a curriculum behind this documentary to use it as a tool for medical students to learn more about Black people’s experiences living with HS and potentially help influence how they treat HS patients moving forward. We really want to change the way physicians interact within the Black community so that we can subsequently close these diagnosis gaps and the mistreatment of Black people in the medical system.

BHM: When can people expect to see the documentary available for streaming?

JE: I want to utilize some streaming services open to independent filmmakers now. One of our goals is to really figure out how we can disseminate this in medical schools first and then we want to release it to the public. You’ll be able to see it in 2025 definitely.

Next, Jasmine discussed her upcoming summit that will be centered on making HS research and wellness accessible, digestible, and engaging.

BHM: How did the idea for the I Reclaim__ Summit come about? What motivated you to create a platform specifically for HS awareness and advocacy?

JE: To be honest, it’s actually a derivative of the documentary. We premiered the documentary at Sony Pictures Entertainment because I’m a Sony Pictures Entertainment fellow. I was an intern at Sony for a while and because of my connections, I was able to do a screening of my documentary on the lot. After that, I got all these connections, and all these people came to me just to become more of an advocate. At the time, advocating for HS was very minimal. The pandemic hit as I was talking to different foundations and seeing how I could show this to physicians and medical schools. All those conversations went to the back burner, and everyone was at a standstill.

In 2020, I had to really think about what I wanted to do to continue impacting the community. I noticed there were conferences and summits for physicians, teaching them about HS and discussing research and treatment options. I realized patients, caregivers, and supporters needed this. They could learn about HS, talk about their experiences, and learn directly from the physicians they would potentially see. So, when I recognized that gap, I knew I was clearly the person to fill the gap. I started using the connections that I had cultivated from my documentary. We went from a virtual summit to an in-person event that has experienced tremendous growth.

BHM: What topics will be covered during the I Reclaim__ Summit? Are there specific sessions or workshops that attendees can look forward to?

JE: We will have a session discussing the new research on HS and a live demonstration on how to care for HS wounds, which our community doesn’t get when they go to dermatologists, especially for pre and post-op surgeries. One of my favorite days I’m excited about is Influencer Day. This day is all about partnering with the individuals who have had amazing, strong voices on social media, especially TikTok. One of the last sessions I’m excited about is our makeover session. We’re giving away two makeovers to two patients. We’re doing a round-trip flight for these individuals, putting them up in a hotel, and giving them a complete transformation. People with HS often have issues dealing with mental health. Subsequently, our self-care journeys are impacted, and because of that, we want to provide a space to pour back into people in the community.

The I Reclaim Summit will be held June 6-8, 2024, in Detroit, MI. Click here for more information..

The post Meet Jasmine “Ivanna” Espy: An Advocate That Is Shaping the Future of HS appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Your Medical Team and Support Factors

If you are considering advanced cancer treatment, you will need a team of specialists who can collaborate to provide you with the proper support. According to the American Cancer Society, there are many professionals that you may encounter, some of them include the following:

Oncologists can include medical, radiation, and surgical oncologists who diagnose and treat cancer.

*Oncology nurses can administer treatments, monitor side effects, and help to educate you regarding your condition.

Patient or nurse navigator: this person can guide you and your family through complex medical systems and help you work with the rest of the cancer care team to overcome barriers to care that may come up so that you can successfully complete your treatment.

Palliative care specialists can include doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other health care professionals who work together to manage symptoms, such as pain, nausea, or fatigue. Palliative care teams can and often work alongside cancer care teams to help manage side effects during and after cancer treatment. These teams are often used to help patients during any stage of cancer, from diagnosis through treatment to the end of life.

Also, it can be helpful to welcome the expertise of social workers, psychologists, and rehabilitation experts. Cancer does not solely impact your body; it also affects your mental health. As cancer patients navigate the disruptions caused by cancer and the alterations in their reality, things like depression and anxiety can begin to surface. You need to know that based on all that you are enduring, ripples in your mental health are normal, but to begin mending them. You should seek help from professionals as well as find support in groups or with your loved ones.

Support programs come in various forms, and you may find comfort in one-on-one sessions or group counseling and support groups. Even if you do not like the idea of support groups, it is worth considering. Talking with others who can truly relate to your situation can help to alleviate some of the loneliness you may be feeling, you can speak to people who have first-hand experience with similar emotions and challenges. To learn more about this option, you may want to ask those who are on your palliative care team for more information. The American Cancer Society also has some in-person and online group support resources.

Understanding Your Treatment Options

Treatment choices for advanced cancers depend on the type of cancer, where the cancer started, and how much it has spread into the area around it, as stated by the American Cancer Society. In general, metastatic cancer will need treatment that reaches all parts of the body, including:

• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Hormone therapy

Surgery and radiation therapy only treat a certain part of the body but can help prevent or relieve certain symptoms. You may be suggested to partake in clinical trials. Overall, treating advanced cancer is complex, and your medical team may use a combination of approaches to treat you.

When treating advanced cancer, the goal is to give you the best quality of life so that you can feel as good as you can for as long as possible. You need to communicate effectively with your healthcare team so they can understand what you want from when you have left and those goals can be addressed best. For instance, you may want to focus on shrinking the cancer, slowing its growth, or relieving your symptoms. You have the right to decide what you want for your future, and this could even include the decision to stop treatment. You must make the best decision for you, which can be hard.

It can also be helpful to get your personal affairs in order. Advanced cancer is not an immediate death sentence. In many cases, the cancer can be managed for years. Still, it is important to know what you want to occur when you are no longer here and to prepare for that possibility in all aspects. This could mean organizing your important documents and figuring out insurance policies, or this could include talking with a therapist to help you and your family digest the possibilities involved in your condition. Find out what being prepared means to you and try your best to take the steps toward it.

Things You Can Practice to Help You Through This Journey

Learn as much as possible about your condition; this can help you ask your medical team informed questions.

* Utilize a palliative health team, and don’t neglect the importance of your mental health.

* Find ways to lower your stress levels through a hobby or meditation, and find pockets of time to decompress.

* Seek support in groups or through counseling.

* Candidly share your healthcare wishes with your medical team and your family.

Living with advanced cancer is a deeply personal journey, unique to everyone. Discover what strategies work best for you, and know that you are not walking this path alone. There are many resources and people ready to support you.

Stay optimistic and continue living your life with purpose because you truly matter.

The post Advanced Cancer Treatments: What You Should Know appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What is a Cancer Recurrence?

According to the American Cancer Society, in some cases, cancer can come back after treatment. When this happens, it is called cancer recurrence. The cancer can come back in the same place it started, or it may come back somewhere else in the body. When the cancer comes back in a new part of the body, it is still named after the part of the body where it originally started.

Where Does Cancer Recur?

Your cancer may recur in the same place it originally started, or it can move to various parts of your body. The American Cancer Society states that recurrence is divided into three categories, this includes:

• Local recurrence is when the cancer reappears in the same place it was found or is remarkably close by. The cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes or other body parts.
• Regional recurrence occurs in the lymph nodes and tissue near your original cancer. * Distant recurrence refers to cancer that has spread to areas farther away from where your cancer was first located. This is called metastatic cancer.

Let’s take a moment to learn more about metastatic cancer. If you happen to hear the word “metastasis” in conversation as your healthcare providers explain your condition, you may wonder what this word means and how it can impact your healing journey.

What is Metastatic Cancer?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, metastasis occurs when cancer spreads to other areas of your body beyond the place where it originally started. Nearly all cancers have the potential to metastasize, but the predictability of this occurrence heavily relies on factors such as the type, size, and location of the primary tumor. The Cleveland Clinic has provided a concise list of other names for metastatic cancer that you may hear.

This includes:

* Stage IV (4) cancer.

* Secondary cancer.

* Cancer with Mets or Mets cancer

How Does Cancer Spread?

As stated by the National Cancer Institute, cancer can spread in a few ways, including:

• Growing into, or invading, nearby normal tissue.
• Moving through the walls of nearby lymph nodes or blood vessels.
• Traveling through the lymphatic system and bloodstream to other body parts.
• Stopping in small blood vessels at a distant location invades the blood vessel walls and moves into the surrounding tissue.
• Growing in this tissue until a tiny tumor forms.
• This causes new blood vessels to grow, creating a blood supply that allows the metastatic tumor to grow.

Are Specific Cancers More Likely to Metastasize?

Cancer can spread to almost any part of the body, but different types of cancer are more likely to spread to certain areas than others. With the exclusion of lymph nodes, the National Cancer Institute has provided a list of cancers and areas prone to metastasis, this includes the following:

•  Bladder cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, bones, and lungs.
• Breast cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, brain, bones, and lungs.
• Colon cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, peritoneum, and lungs.
• Kidney cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, brain, adrenal gland, bones, and lungs.
• Lung cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, brain, adrenal gland, bones, and lungs.
• Melanoma cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, skin, muscle, liver, brain, lungs, and bones.
• Ovarian cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, peritoneum, and lungs.
• Pancreatic cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, peritoneum, and lungs.
• Prostate cancer is prone to spreading to the adrenal gland, liver, bones, and lungs.
•  Rectal cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, peritoneum, and lungs.
• Stomach cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, bones, and lungs.
•  Thyroid cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, bones, and lungs.
• Uterine cancer is prone to spreading to the liver, peritoneum, vagina, bones, and lungs.

According to this list, cancer cancer most often spreads to the liver, bones, and lungs.

Although the list seems repetitive, we urge you to take a look. You may recognize your diagnosis, which can better prepare you to manage your health.

What Are the Symptoms of Metastasis

Now that you know the areas where cancer is most likely to spread, you may be wondering how you can identify metastasis or if there are any symptoms to look out for. As stated by Healthline, metastatic cancer does not always present itself with symptoms, but when it does occur, you may experience a few things, including the following:

• Bone: pain, easily fractured bones
• Brain: headache, dizziness, vision problems, seizures
• Lung: shortness of breath, cough, chest pain
• Liver: jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), bloating, abdominal pain. ]

If your cancer comes back, you may also hear the word “advanced” used to describe your condition. If you are told that your cancer is advanced, it is important to find out exactly what your doctor means. Some healthcare providers use advanced to describe metastatic cancer, and others use it to describe other situations. Understanding what your doctor means is vital, as all metastatic cancers are not advanced.

What is advanced cancer?

According to the American Cancer Society, the term ‘advanced cancer’ is commonly used to describe cancers that cannot be cured. These cancers do not completely disappear and remain present despite treatment efforts. However, certain types of advanced cancer can be managed over an extended period and are thought of as ongoing or chronic illnesses.

Advanced cancer can be locally advanced or metastatic.

Locally advanced means that the cancer has grown outside of the body part it started in but has not yet spread to other parts of the body, according to the American Cancer Society. On the other hand, metastatic cancers are characterized by their ability to spread from where they started, but they are often only considered advanced when they cannot be cured or controlled with treatment.

If you are told that your cancer is advanced, you are faced with many decisions about your health, including the route that you would like to take regarding your medical team and care.

The post What if Your Cancer Comes Back? What You Should Know About Advanced Cancer & Metastasis appeared first on Black Health Matters.

We decided to dive into the topic of whole-body deodorants and get professional guidance to help you determine if it is worth trying. We turned to a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, Dr. Brooke A. Jackson, for insight into whole-body deodorants.

BHM: On a molecular level, how do whole-body deodorants work?

Dr. Jackson: Let’s discuss deodorant versus antiperspirant. Deodorants minimize odor through antibacterial properties and fragrance of some sort. Antiperspirants reduce sweat and odor. Often, chemicals such as aluminum are used to minimize sweat. Aluminum salts dissolve on your skin, blocking your pores from secreting sweat.

Over the past few years there has been some concern over the use of aluminum in antiperspirants as a potential link to cancer.

Because aluminum prevents you from sweating, some proponents of aluminum-free products believe that the action of aluminum-containing products that prevent you from sweating out toxins could eventually lead to cancer. Scientific evidence to support this claim is lacking.

According to the American Cancer Society, no clear link between antiperspirants and breast cancer has been established, and breast cancer tissue has not been proven to contain higher concentrations of aluminum. Toxins are excreted from the body through the liver and the kidneys, not through sweat.

BHM: Are whole-body deodorants safe?

Dr. Jackson: Generally, yes, let’s drill down on that. Most whole-body deodorants do not contain aluminum. However, they contain potential irritants such as fragrance, alcohol, and astringents, which change the skin’s pH, making it less hospitable to odor-causing bacteria. Patients who have eczema or sensitive skin may find these products problematic. While aluminum absorption is minimal, the effect of whole-body aluminum-containing products has not been studied.

BHM: Can whole-body deodorant be used everywhere?

Dr. Jackson: Theoretically, yes, but practically, why would you need to? These products are not intended to be body lotions. The use should be limited to those areas on your body prone to odor or excessive sweat. These products are for external use only.

BHM: Are there any potential side effects of whole-body deodorants? If so, how can people reduce them?

Dr. Jackson: Alcohol, astringents, and fragrance can be issues. Approach with caution if you have sensitive skin

BHM: In your experience, are natural whole-body deodorants safer or more effective than their counterparts?

Dr. Jackson: natural deodorants often contain botanicals and fragrances, which can also be irritating.

BHM: Do you have any product recommendations for whole-body deodorants?

Dr. Jackson: Wear breathable wicking fabrics such as Coolmax, dri-fit, and Under Armor. Try going commando at night and maintain a healthy weight, as moisture, sweat, and bacteria tend to be more of an issue in those who are overweight.

If you are considering trying this new hygiene trend, look into our list of the top 3 whole-body deodorants.

1. Dove is our first choice as it promises freshness for up to 72 hours and prioritizes odor control and skin health. This whole-body deodorant can go beyond your underarms and even alleviate chafing. Infused with shea butter and vitamins B3 and E and coming in at $11 -$13 1Dove’s unscented whole-body deodorant could be perfect for you.

2. Lume is another versatile product for odor control, as it also guarantees 72 hours of protection. Depending on the type of formula, it can be found for $20 or below; we suggest the unscented formula as it is free from essential oils and fragrance oils and fully embraces the aspects of its natural ingredients.

3. Next up, we have Native. This brand is quite famous for bringing natural alternatives to the deodorant aisles, but now, they have also joined the whole-body deodorant market. According to their website, their unscented whole-body deodorant is clinically proven to provide 72 hours of protection. It is also made without aluminum, parabens, baking soda, or talc. For $13, you can give Native a try.

The post Are Whole Body Deodorants Worth Trying? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

• We have higher rates of specific diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis than white women. The CDC reported that Black Americans had 31% of cases reported in 2022. Rescripted says that those of us who identify as Black women also contract long-term STIs like herpes simplex more frequently.

But our high rates are not the result of sexual activity alone but also access to quality healthcare, education, and medical racism. Add in the shame and fear of asking a partner to wear protection. We wanted some insight into this sensitive topic and the need for more discussion among women of all ages, so we turned to Dr. Shea Graham, a published researcher, university instructor, licensed psychotherapist, and Clinical Supervisor at Addiction Recovery Systems Supervisor at ARS-Pantops in Central Virginia. She is recognized as an “expert” under Virginia code §19.2-300 and collaborates with courts to provide mental health evaluations.

She offered us some insight into why we need to start talking about sexual health with current and future partners, what happens when we don’t, how STIs impact us emotionally and mentally, and how therapy can help.

BHM: How can we advocate for ourselves when navigating our sexual health?

Dr. Graham: The first thing is to realize that you deserve to have good health, to be in good health, to protect your good health if you have been blessed with it. Sometimes, there is a lot of guilt around safeguarding your health, which means, “Oh, I don’t want to ask my partner to wear a condom because that will signal to him that I don’t trust him.” Or “I don’t want to ask my partner to get tested because that will signal that I don’t trust him even if he says that he is clean.”

The bottom line is that your responsibility is to protect your body and health status. Your partner could be unintentionally misrepresenting his health status.

Most STIs don’t have symptoms, so unless he presents you with his test results, you should operate like every test is positive. So, when you enter a relationship with a new partner, assume they are positive for every STI possible, and if so, what would you do differently? Being an informed partner is one way to empower yourself to protect your health. Communicating is another way to protect your health.

BHM: How can we break down barriers to discussing sexual health and prevention with our partners?

Dr. Graham: When talking to your partner, do it as soon as possible. The moment that you realize that you want to have sex with someone, you should talk about sexual health. It could be as simple as saying, “Hey, when was the last time you were tested?” If you have your test results, feel free to share your test results with your partner. This will also signify your willingness to be vulnerable, which can aid in reciprocating vulnerability; sometimes, you must initiate discussion.

Also, within our community, because there is such a heavy stigma around STIs, most people feel ashamed even just mentioning it.

Introduce the health discussion and frame it in a way that allows your partner to know that you are asking these questions because, as an adult, it is your responsibility to know your medical status and to protect yourself against STIs.

It is okay to open the conversation by acknowledging how uncomfortable the topic can be, but it is crucial to push through and address the matter to protect your and your partner’s health. So, start the conversation with honesty, and hopefully, if your partner is serious about health and sexual health, they will be open to the discussion.

Ladies, it is a red flag if you start a sexual health conversation and your partner is dismissive. That is a massive red flag, and you should not ignore it. You should take a step back and examine if this is a person you want to trust your body with and risk your health for.

So, communicate, get tested, advocate for yourself, and sit with those uncomfortable feelings. Just because something is uncomfortable does not mean you should avoid it.

BHM: What role does emotional well-being play in managing STIs?

Emotional well-being plays a huge part because every human experience has that emotional undertone. It would be impossible to go through any stage in life without experiencing some emotion: the human experience. Sometimes, when things happen to us, our bodies hold onto that. If a trauma happens or something significant happens, our initial response is what our body does. So, our initial response is our stomach may turn, or something will happen, and we will get hot; that’s our nervous system at play, our fight, flight freeze response.

Once our bodies respond, our mind starts to make sense of it. Once our mind starts to process these things, our emotions respond. You can’t have one without the other. Sometimes, your body will respond, and there is such fragmentation; for some people, their minds, bodies, and spirits are fragmented. It can be difficult for these people to understand what is happening around them; their bodies will respond, and they won’t know why. They are in this constant state of fight, flight, freeze, and that is when seeing a therapist can help. You can process stressors with a professional who can give you the coping skills to either deal with your reality or who can help you construct a narrative to take those fragmented pieces of trauma and put them together in a way that is empowering to you.

BHM: Is there a way to make therapy a more prominent option for those living with STIs?

Dr. Graham: One of the central tenets of talk therapy is self-determination. The client enters therapy, and then the therapist provides the service. If you are thinking that you can push a loved one into treatment so that they can get the help that they need, that is not going to be helpful. For those seeking treatment, there are resources to find a qualified therapist in your area. The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) is an excellent platform to find a certified therapist in your area to process these things with. Not every therapist is qualified or trained to support you in an affirming way. Some therapists have not done the necessary work to challenge their own biases, and they may pass negative judgment on your medical situation.

BHM: When Black women receive STI diagnoses, how can they address the internalized shame that they may feel?

Dr. Graham: Unfortunately, there isn’t an easy solution. My suggestion would be to start to journal about the untruths that you internalize that you carry as it relates to your diagnosis. Then, bring those notes to therapy to process and challenge them. A great therapeutic intervention called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps my clients identify, challenge, and replace negative thoughts about their reality.

BHM: What advice would you give to someone looking for ways to manage their STI diagnosis as it relates to their psychological and social wellness?

Dr. Graham: Know that you are not alone. You do not have to cope with this new diagnosis by yourself. There are support groups, and once you are diagnosed, if you utilize a wraparound clinic along with your diagnosis, your provider should give you resources so that you can get linked to a nonprofit or a community board in your area. Start attending those weekly support groups. If you are in an underserved area, meaning you are not provided with these resources, you can attend a NAMI support group. You can also do individual therapy with a certified sex therapist; I cannot stress that enough; if you want to talk about STIs and don’t want to be judged by your therapist, work with someone who understands that these things happen to humans. You are not any less human or any less deserving of evidence-based care simply because of a medical diagnosis. Remember that awareness and action are great tools in managing an STI or proper prevention.

To end things off, we’d like to leave you with one of Dr. Graham’s favorite phrases: “Emotions are wonderful consultants; they are terrible CEOs, and they should not be calling the shots.” Don’t be afraid to break the silence regarding your sexual health and to care for yourself in all ways, including medical and psychological services.

The post The High Price Black Women Pay For STIs appeared first on Black Health Matters.

BHM: How does access to nutritious food directly correlate to our health conditions?

Johane Filemon: Our community has experienced health disparities since the genesis of this country. Today, access to basic medical needs and a qualified and licensed nutritionist is hard for many in our community, primarily due to their financial capabilities and access to health insurance. Others have poor access to nutrient-dense foods due to the food deserts surrounding them. Because of this, you will find that many are experiencing more health conditions linked to the foods they eat and the lack of nutrients they provide. They lack knowledge of nutrition and have to eat what they have access to.

BHM: Are there any specific vitamin or mineral deficiencies that impact us as a collective?

JF: Vitamin D deficiency is often prevalent in our community. The pigmentation or melanin in our skin reduces Vitamin D production. The fact that most of us are indoors most of the time does not help. Low Vitamin D levels have been associated with decreased immune system function. It is essential to consume foods high in Vitamin D and take daily Vitamin D supplementation to maintain adequate Vitamin D levels.

BHM: Which vitamins and supplements are essential for our overall health, and what are the best ways to ensure their safe and effective use?

JF: There are 13 essential vitamins that our bodies require to function daily. Food is the first place we should aim to get them. Vitamins A, B, C, E, and K come from various foods. This is why consuming a diet of colorful plant-based foods is important, so we often consume these various nutrients. Supplements should come in second to support what we cannot get from the foods we eat, which can be due to various reasons.

BHM: What are your top tips regarding prioritizing our health and wellness while limiting the risk of getting overwhelmed?

J F: Making changes that benefit our health and wellness doesn’t happen overnight and can take baby steps. Stressing over these changes can be counterproductive for our overall health. This is why we need to give ourselves a lot of grace as we make these changes. This does not mean we should not be proactive; it is okay to make one change at a time. Start with consuming more colorful plant-based foods. A diet that consists predominantly of various plant-based foods allows for more consumption of different vitamins and minerals, promoting good gut health by feeding the good bacteria in our gut and our overall body.

BHM: As research often suggests, Black people have higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. What are the best ways within nutritional wellness to combat these conditions?

J F: Start with the basics! Consuming a predominantly plant-based diet where 1/2 of your plate is non-starchy vegetables and fruits as tolerated, 1/4 of your plate a protein, and 1/4 a starch. When managing diabetes and hypertension, tolerance of different foods can be person-specific. It is essential to get the recommendation of a dietitian nutritionist who can evaluate a person’s current health status when making recommendations for better success.

BHM: How can people verify their quality and purity when taking supplements? Are there any red flags they should look for when choosing them?

JF: Unfortunately, supplements are not regulated. I recommend always asking an expert for advice on which supplements are best, especially if a medical diagnosis and prescription medications are also being consumed. Look for supplements that have minimal extra ingredients. Any supplements that claim to heal or make extreme changes “overnight” and “it’s all you will need” to get the results you are looking for should be a big red flag.

Eating a well-balanced diet is the primary source of good nutrition. Still, Supplements and wellness products can be helpful for an additional wellness boost. BHM has created a list of a few Black-owned wellness and health brands.

Veev Nutrition

Veev Nutrition is a brand that focuses on gut health and well-being. Our Johane Filemon founded it! Veev Nutrition is a supplement line created with premium ingredients with a proven history of fighting inflammation, building a diverse gut microbiome, and repairing the damage caused by toxins in our environment and food. An additional bonus of this brand is that it is black and woman-owned, so not only will your support aid in your health, but it will also contribute to our community.

Body Complete Rx

Body Complete Rx, founded by Samia Gore in 2017, is a black and woman-owned wellness brand offering plant-based supplements designed to support many health and fitness goals. Body Complete Rx worked with renowned nutritionist Dr. Ruby Lathon to formulate and launch five product lines, each prioritizing a different wellness goal to support a well-rounded, healthier life.

Peak + Valley

Peak + Valley, founded in 2015 by Nadine Joseph, is known for its supplements for brain and skin health and stress support. Nadine traveled worldwide to source herbs to support and uplift the global herbal community through direct sourcing practices. Nadine’s brand reflects her upbringing, as she looks for natural remedies at the intersection of science and traditional medicine. With Peak and Valley, she hopes to build a better herbal trade with transparent sourcing, unquestionably high-quality ingredients, and science-backed knowledge.

Black Girl Vitamins

Black Girl Vitamins is another excellent brand for those seeking support for vitamin deficiencies. The founder, Maxine, created Black Girl Vitamins to address the nutritional needs of underserved Black women and the scientifically proven nutritional deficiencies common within our community. According to their website, some of the areas that they focus on include:

•  Vitamin D, 82% of black women are deficient.
•  Iron, Black women are 3x more likely to have anemia.
• Cholesterol, the highest prevalence of heart disease, occurs in the black community.
•  Pregnancy, the highest infant and maternal mortality, as well as PCOS, occurs among black women.

Black Girl Vitamins carefully crafts products to nourish and empower Black women so that they can thrive on their wellness journeys.

Golde

Golde is Black and Japanese-owned and was founded in 2017 by Trinity Mouzon Wofford and Issey Kobori. Golde is making wellness accessible, fun, and easy for everyone, providing its supporters with healthy superfood essentials. Their product lineup focuses on superfoods that address common health needs, including stress relief, gut health, skin hydration, and immune support. Of all their products, their matcha additives are immensely popular and have other products that can benefit unique needs.

Before trying any of these products, please speak to your healthcare provider to ensure they will be safe and effective. Remember, it is never too late to prioritize your health, nutrition, and wellness.

The post RDN Johane Filemon on How Supplements Fit into to Your Nutrition Plan appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Superwoman Schema Defined

According to Berkely News, SWS is characterized by a few things, including the following:

• Feeling obligated to present an image of strength
• Suppressing one’s emotions.
• An intense drive to succeed.
• Feeling a strong obligation to help others.
• Resistance to being vulnerable.

Over time, as we displace our needs to consistently portray an image of strength or continuously put others before ourselves, little by little, ounces of pressure accumulates. Eventually, we are left with pounds of stress. This burden can lead to chronic conditions and many health issues.

How It Manifests in Black Women Over Time

An article from the American Heart Association delves into where SWS starts and how it manifests as Black women age. They gathered information from Amani M. Allen, an associate professor of community and health sciences and epidemiology at the University of California-Berkeley School of Public Health. According to Allen, being a superwoman begins when Black women are little girls, and it ages with them as they become teenagers and continues into their womanhood. SWS and its harmful effects are amplified as Black women are forced to approach both racism and sexism in their journeys of life.

Black women experience the impact of centuries of racism and the residual aspects of unfairness that exist within our systems today. Black women typically earn less than their counterparts of other races. For example, in 2019, compared to white non-Hispanic men, the pay gap for Black women was 38%, as stated by the American Association of University Women. Along with that, we may face limitations regarding opportunities in the workplace. Additionally, Black women face harsh health outcomes, as we often experience a lack of attentiveness in health facilities, and there are so many health disparities impacting us as a collective. To shield ourselves from these things, we tend to suit up in armor that temporarily aids us in suppressing our emotions so that we can appear strong while protecting ourselves from vulnerability. However, this may work temporarily; beneath the surface, all those emotions brew until we can no longer contain the steam. From there, we can be steered down a dark path with doors leading to things such as depression, heart disease, obesity, sleep problems, and much more.

The Historical Context

In an interview with Fox 26 Houston News, Dr. Christine Beliard explained how SWS is connected to history and the necessity for Black women to have safe outlets to be free of their vulnerability. “We have a unique experience. For generations, our ability to be worth anything was based on what we could produce, even literally, who we could produce,” she said.
Dr. Beliard went on to refer to the times of enslavement in America and how Black women were never given the chance to relax or to not be at their best. Productivity was constant and mandatory.

“A lot of the work really is, not that you must go to therapy, but finding a safe space. If you must be hyper-vigilant and take care of this at work and home, you can’t be vulnerable. If you are in a state of hypervigilance, you are in a traumatic response. So, it is important to find a trustworthy space, a place where you can be honest.” she says. “Even if it is therapy or a good girlfriend, you cannot hold that in. We are like pressure cookers. If you hold that in, put on that top, and turn up that heat, it will come out in one way or another.”

SWS is a result of the united effort of Black women as we strive to be dependable and admirable members of our communities while simultaneously exuding excellence to defy false stereotypes of aggression, laziness, and loudness that have historically and unjustly been associated with us. Together, we can deconstruct SWS and evolve into the habit of acknowledging our feelings and the necessity for our wellness holistically.

The Negative Impact of Being a Strong Black Woman

In a wonderful interview with Northwestern Now, Northwestern Medicine clinical psychologist Inger Burnett-Zeigler explained the negative impact of being a “strong Black woman” and highlighted some things Black women can do to strengthen their vulnerability and wellness. She said, “For too long, being strong means avoiding or denying how you really feel. It is holding painful experiences, like trauma, in shame and secrecy. We deal with things by pushing our feelings aside, keeping our eye on the prize, and getting the task done,” she explained.”This is how we survive. We are afraid if we slow down long enough to think about all the difficult things we’ve been through and our pain, we’ll fall apart.

Furthermore, Burnett-Zeigler noted, “Some black women do not have the necessary tools to cope with their feelings healthily. As a result, they may engage in unhealthy coping strategies such as eating unhealthy foods, drinking alcohol, using illicit drugs, being sedentary or a workaholic,” she says. “On the other hand, many Black women do have healthy coping resources such as utilizing spiritual and religious practices. Also, they may be involved in organizations such as sororities, women’s groups, volunteerism, or charity clubs.

Superwoman Schema is evidence of the resilience of Black women and a reminder of the immense societal pressures we face. While we are intelligent, talented, ambitious, and strong, we should also be allowed the space to be vulnerable and authentic. Let’s start making room in the narrative for more self-compassion as we pave the way for generational healing and our collective well-being.

Here are some things we can do:

• Evaluate and prioritize your feelings and be kind to yourself.
• Seek support. Finding a therapist and talking with friends and family are healthy ways to discuss your feelings and to feel understood.
• Set boundaries, try to refrain from stressing yourself out with tasks, and sometimes you have to say no.

The post The Toll On Our Health When We Try to Be Superwomen (There’s Research) appeared first on Black Health Matters.

PCOS Explained

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)is a hormonal condition, it consists of an imbalance that occurs when the ovaries produce excessive androgens, these are sex hormones that contribute to puberty, reproductive health, and body development according to The Cleveland Clinic. Although males produce more androgens, they are produced by both males and females. This excessive production can lead to imbalanced reproductive hormones.

What are the Symptoms?

The Mayo Clinic has provided insight into the symptoms of PCOS, if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should visit your healthcare provider. PCOS symptoms include the following:

• Irregular periods, having few menstrual periods or having periods that are not regular are common signs of PCOS.
• Excessively lengthy periods, having periods that last for many days or longer than is typical for a period can be a cause for concern.
• Fertility issues.
• Too much androgen, elevated levels of the hormone androgen may result in excess facial and body hair, this is called hirsutism. High androgen levels can contribute to male-pattern baldness and severe acne as well.
•  Polycystic ovaries, the ovaries might become bigger, and many follicles containing immature eggs may develop around the edge of the ovaries. This can contribute to cysts and difficulties with the function of the ovaries.

Additionally, PCOS can be a risk factor for other complications in a woman’s life. The Mayo Clinic has created a list of complications that can occur for women diagnosed with PCOS, the list includes:

• Infertility.
• Gestational diabetes or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure.
•  Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, this is a severe liver inflammation caused by fat buildup in the liver.
• Miscarriage or premature birth.
•  Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.
• Sleep apnea
•  Metabolic syndrome, this is a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and unhealthy cholesterol or triglyceride levels that significantly increase one’s risk of heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease.
•  Depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
• Endometrial cancer, this is cancer of the uterine lining.

Hirsutism

According to the Resilient Sisterhood Project, Black women with PCOS are shown to have higher rates of hirsutism, insulin resistance, obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, high blood sugar and a higher risk or cardiovascular disease or metabolic syndrome. People with PCOS hirsutism typically have course, visible, dark hairs growing in these parts of the body. These hairs are commonly called androgenic. Many women select from the following methods to manage their hair growth:

Manual removal, such as shaving, plucking, or waxing.

* Depilatory agents, such as topical gels, lotions, or hair removal creams.

* Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills that boost estrogen levels and anti-androgen drugs that can decrease testosterone levels.

* Electrolysis, this technique kills the growth center of a hair with electricity.

* Laser hair reduction, this kills hair with a laser, it has been proven to work best on fair-skinned people with very dark hair. (Editor’s note To avoid an adverse reaction you must go to a board-certified dermatologist experienced with dark skin that has a laser designed for use for dark skin).

If you are experiencing signs of hirsutism , this is not enough to equate to a direct PCOS diagnosis, we urge you to visit your healthcare providers to get a thorough understanding of your symptoms, this can aid in proper diagnoses regarding PCOS or other conditions.

Treating Your PCOS

Since PCOS does not have a cure, treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and complications that concern patients, these focal points can be different for every individual. This could include infertility, hirsutism, acne, or obesity, according to the Mayo Clinic. Lifestyle changes and medication may be suggested for patients to achieve their health goals. To regulate periods and ovulation, healthcare providers may recommend some of the following options:

•  A combination of birth control pills, that contain both estrogen and progestin decrease androgen production and regulate estrogen. Regulating these hormones can lower the risk of endometrial cancer and lessen symptoms associated with PCOS.
• Progestin therapy, taking progestin for 10 to 14 days every 1 to 2 months can regulate periods and protect women against endometrial cancer.
•  Clomiphene, this oral anti-estrogen medication is taken during the first part of a woman’s menstrual cycle, it can help with ovulation and the process of getting pregnant.
• Letrozole (Femara), this breast cancer treatment can work to stimulate the ovaries.
• Metformin, this medicine for type 2 diabetes that can be taken orally improves insulin resistance and lowers insulin levels.
• Patients can also discuss topical gels, creams, and medications to reduce the speed of excessive hair growth and the effects that high androgen levels can have on the skin.

Navigating life with PCOS can certainly be tough and many women suffer mentally as they struggle to find support in an experience that can be very isolating. Here at BHM, we want to remind you that you are not alone, and we urge you to find support whether it be from healthcare providers, friends, family, therapists, other women living with this condition, or a combination of all these things.The Resilient Sisterhood Project has reported the experiences of many black women with PCOS who have felt invisible and invalidated when seeking help from medical practitioners. Others have had their symptoms dismissed. been bullied about their weight  instead of the root cause of their issues.

It is imperative that Black woman try their absolute best to research their doctors, read patient reviews, and remain confident in their knowledge of their experiences and the questions that they are seeking answers for. We don’t deserve to be profiled or dismissed when we are trying to take care of our health, advocating for ourselves is one of the keys to attaining proper healthcare and holding our healthcare providers accountable

If you happen to have PCOS, your story and experiences are valuable. Remember to always advocate for yourself and your health and have compassion for yourself as you go through this journey.

The post How Does PCOS Impact Your Health? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Nana Eyeson-Akiwowo and Marcia Cole – Fourth Phase

Fourth Phase is an exceptional company founded by Nana Eyeson-Akiwowo and Marcia Cole. The duo are good friends and philanthropists and decided to combine their skills from their former careers as magazine and digital editors. Much of the inspiration for Fourth Phase came from a trip Nana took to Ghana; there, she saw a gap in the attentiveness and care provided for new mothers. At the time, Nana and Marcia were already heavily involved in women’s maternal and reproductive care. As Nana held events to provide free postpartum care packages to women in Ghana, Marcia launched a non-profit to deliver sanitary napkins to homeless shelters. From their shared interests and diligent research, Fourth Phase was launched in 2021.

Fourth Phase offers a range of postpartum care boxes perfectly tailored to different birthing needs. Most of the products on the website are below $200 and provide breastfeeding, c-section, mental well-being, and pelvic care kits. Fourth Phase products are cruelty-free, phthalate-free, organic, and sustainably sourced. Nana and Marcia have worked hard to create a support system for mothers and expectant mothers that holistically targets maternal health, highlighting the importance of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs.

Latham Thomas – Mama Glow

After giving birth to her son Fulano in 2003, Latham Thomas made it her mission to help women reclaim birth. Latham is a graduate of Columbia University and The Insititute for Integrative Nutrition. She is a maternity lifestyle maven, a world-renowned wellness leader, and a master-birth doula. With her impressive wellness background, it was only right that Latham founded Mama Glow. Based in New York City, Mama Glow delivers an array of offerings for women and families along the paths of fertility, pregnancy, and new motherhood to provide women with confidence and maternal satisfaction. Mama Glow provides resources that nurture the wellness of women from conception to delivery; their services include:

• Doula packages.
• Yoga packages.
• Personal development and lifestyle coaching.
• Spirit, self-care, and ritual packages.
• Wellness residency.
• Corporate consulting.
• Training and gatherings.

Mama Glow takes holistic care to an entirely new level as the company works to bridge gaps in maternal care in all spaces, including the workplace. Latham Thomas has successfully designed a safe space that helps mothers and expectant mothers stand in power and embrace motherhood for its beauty and radiance.

Kimberly Allers – Irth 

Kimberly Allers is an award-winning journalist, speaker, advocate, and entrepreneur who deserves recognition for her innovative stride toward deconstructing racism and bias in maternity and infant care and equalizing the country’s birthing experiences. She created Irth, the only app where you can find prenatal, birthing, postpartum, and pediatric care reviews from other Black and brown parents.

Kimberly’s passion for Black maternal health is intricately connected to her experience. She had a firsthand encounter with the bias in American maternal health care. After completing her master’s degree at Columbia University, Kimberly gave birth to her first child at a hospital that was supposed to be one of the best in New York City. Her experience there did not live up to her expectations. She felt disrespected, ignored, traumatized, and violated. Unfortunately, Kimberly’s experience is shared by many Black women, and we tend to wonder how hospitals with such high ratings can continue to fail us. Well, Kimberly has the answer: it is biased; implicit bias is often cast onto Black women as we try to navigate our health and wellness, especially during the journey to motherhood.

Kimberly believes that everyone deserves an empowered birth experience where they are honored and respected for who they are. To help bring this belief to reality, she created the Irth app. With a platform like “Yelp,” you can search for reviews regarding prenatal, postpartum, pediatric, or birth care. Once you have searched, you will see reviews from Black and brown parents that can aid your search for good healthcare. Kimberly has set a new standard for healthcare, focusing on the importance of representation in the navigational process. Irth can be downloaded from the App Store or on Google Play.

Courtney S. Hall – Baby Bump Bliss

Courtney S. Hall earned her undergraduate degree in Social Work from North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University and her master’s degree from the University of South Carolina in Columbia. Courtney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate, a Certified Birth Doula, and a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional. Amidst her passion for social work and mental health, Courtney also has a passion for maternal health and helping couples. She is an advocate as she provides emotional and physical support to families. After experiencing her journey to motherhood, she realized that the mental health of women before, during, and after pregnancy is important. To contribute to the world of maternal health, Courtney designed Bump.Baby.Bliss. 

Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, Bump.Baby.Bliss. is a one-stop shop for all your pre and postpartum needs. The studio offers a comprehensive range of services, including the following: 

• 2D, 3D, and 4D ultrasounds. 
• Early DNA gender testing. 
• Doula support. 
• Placenta encapsulation. 
• Perinatal therapy. 
• Childbirth classes. 
• Breastfeeding assistance. 
• Mentorship  

Through her business, Courtney has provided confidence and support for families during all stages of the journey to having children. She has increased accessibility and awareness to compassionate, skilled doula and counseling care. 

Kimberly Durdin and Allegra Hill – Kindred Space LA 

Kimberly Durdin is a Licensed Midwife, Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, Childbirth Educator, and Doula Trainer. She has over 29 years of experience in her work, but she credits a lot of her learning experiences to her six children and five grandbabies. Over the last 29 years, Kimberly has interwoven her life with the lives of thousands of families throughout New York City, Washington DC Metro Area, and Los Angeles. Her skilled background in providing lactation care, postpartum support, groups, counseling, childbirth education, labor support, and mentorship speaks volumes regarding her impact on the Black maternal health community. Her non-profit, the Birthing People Foundation, empowers people of color by providing free and low-cost education, training, and certification about pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, such as doulas, childbirth educators, lactation consultants, birth assistants, and midwives. With her extensive resume, Kimberly is directly addressing the maternal and infant health disparities in communities of color and restoring awareness and comfortability regarding Black and brown people being wellness providers.

Allegra Hill is a Licensed Midwife, Certified Professional Midwife, and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant. She began her journey as a doula in 2010. She is the co-owner of the Birthing People Foundation, along with her close friend, Kimberly Durdin. She has trained and mentored birth doulas since 2013. She uses her extensive knowledge and training in nonviolent communication, conflict resolution, early child development, and cultural competency in all areas of her work.

Allegra and Kimberly started Kindred Space LA. Their business is unique and impactful as they provide top-notch midwifery services. They provide families with prenatal and postpartum care and aid in preparing for birth and life with a newborn. Those who choose Kindred Space LA receive excellent care and a warm and welcoming community. Kimberly and Allegra have supported each other through their births and big life milestones, and they have developed a deep sisterhood rooted in love. They share that joy with their clients as they provide comfort and community during the biggest transitions in their lives.

These five entrepreneurs are creating history with their businesses and bridging the gap in maternal healthcare for Black women. These women have been able to understand and create impactful services that uplift and support Black mothers. They are building legacies, and with their contributions, a brighter future for Black maternal health will be a reality.

The post Looking for Maternal Resources?These Entrepreneurs Are Making a Difference appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What is an epidural?

According to the American Pregnancy Association, an epidural is a regional anesthesia that blocks pain in a particular area of the body. Epidurals are used to decrease pain in a specific area. For those in labor, they offer pain relief in the lower part of the body. Epidurals block the nerve impulses from the lower spine, contributing to a less painful birthing experience. Additionally, epidurals can be a medical necessity if complications occur.

Epidurals take about 10 minutes to place and an additional 10 to 15 minutes to begin working. They are administered by inserting a needle and a catheter into the lower part of a woman’s back; as the needle is removed, the catheter stays in place to distribute the medicine throughout the labor process, according to Yale Medicine.

What are the benefits of an epidural?

Although getting an epidural may sound scary, it does provide women with a few benefits. According to Healthline, those benefits are:

• Pain relief: epidurals are known for their ability to relieve pain, making labor and delivery less stressful.
• Relaxation and pain relief can give mothers more rest, especially after a long labor.
• Alertness: Women can be more alert and active during their birthing experience without immense pain.
• Convenience: Epidurals can be administered anytime during birth.
•  Surgical procedure relief, epidurals can provide continuous pain relief for women as they endure long surgical procedures such as c-section deliveries.

What are the risks of an epidural?

Like most things, epidurals have a few cons as well. Healthline has provided a list of the possible risks associated with epidurals, including:

• Low blood pressure: epidurals can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure.
• Side effects: some women experience shivering, fever, itchiness, nausea, headaches, and soreness.
• Pushing difficulty: some women have reported that they found pushing to be more difficult with an epidural.
• Numbness: some women may experience numbness in the lower half of their bodies for a few hours after giving birth.
• Urination troubles: epidurals increase the chances of a woman needing a urinary catheter to urinate. This is a temporary solution as women wait for their numbness to subside.

What is a natural birth?

What is a natural birth? A natural birth is the process of giving labor without medication; typically, these are vaginal deliveries as cesarean section (c-section) deliveries usually require some form of anesthesia.

What are the benefits of a natural birth?

According to HealthPartners, natural births have a few benefits, and for some women, the pain is worth it; the benefits include:

• A strong feeling of control, women can go through the good and bad aspects of their labors without the influence of medication.
• Flexibility: Because epidurals aren’t being used, women can change birthing positions. They have more feeling in their lower halves, which enables them to move more freely.
• Quicker delivery: For some women, the lack of an epidural speeds up their labor process.
• Fewer side effects: Without the use of an epidural, women can avoid the risks associated with epidurals.

What are the risks of a natural birth?

There are a few drawbacks of natural births; HealthPartners has provided some insight on a few things that can occur: * A longer labor, sometimes, the lack of an epidural, and the discomfort that women experience can make the process longer.

• Pain: Without an epidural, most women will feel pain, and this can limit the focus that women have on the beauty of their labor and delivery process.
• Medication may be required if an emergency occurs, such as the need for a C-section.

Additionally, women who are considered to have high-risk pregnancies may want to avoid natural births. According to Penn Medicine, high-risk pregnancies include the following:

• Those older than 35.
• Those with a history of medical conditions such as preeclampsia or blood-clotting complications.
• Those carrying multiples.
• And any other complications during pregnancy.

The choice between an epidural and a natural birth is a personal decision, and, in this case, mothers know best. Still, women need to discuss the decisions regarding their pregnancy, labor, and delivery with healthcare providers because sometimes there are factors involved that require a strict plan. Whether women embrace the pain relief from epidurals or the painful beauty of natural birth, both experiences are worth celebrating, as every birthing experience is unique.

The post Epidural vs. Natural Birth: Weighing Your Options appeared first on Black Health Matters.

BHM: When did you first notice the symptoms of HS, and how did it impact your life?

Cydney Carter: My symptoms started somewhere around the age of 12; around that prepubescent time is when I began noticing bumps on my inner thighs, and I had no idea what was happening to my body. I remember that for a while, I kept it to myself, but sometimes it would get so painful that I had to tell my mom.

BHM: How long did it take you to receive an accurate diagnosis?

Cydney Carter: I didn’t get diagnosed until around 2014 or 2015; at that time, I was a junior in high school. There was a 7-year gap between getting the symptoms and then getting diagnosed with HS.

BHM: Have you made any lifestyle modifications to manage your HS symptoms, and if so, what would you recommend to your fellow HS warriors?

Cydney Carter: the most significant lifestyle adjustment I have made thus far is ensuring that I am aware of the things that put me in a stressful environment. I know stress is a trigger for me, and life is just life sometimes, and you can’t help it. When my HS was at its worst, I was enduring so much trauma and mental overload. So now, I try to do my best to make sure that I am in open communication with my partner about my HS flares. I try to journal if I can about how I feel, and honestly, just talking about it has helped me in such a fantastic way. That is the advice I would give: find somebody you can talk about this with because keeping it to ourselves for so long is stressful, contributing to more flares. We all must have a safe space or person to talk about HS with.

BHM: How can people support their loved ones living with HS?

Cydney Carter: The best way to support someone living with HS is not to judge them. They can remind them that the scars on their body don’t define who they are and that they are beautiful. I think society is pushing so many cosmetic surgeries and procedures, and that is something that people with HS put in the back of their brains. We have already felt like we have imperfect bodies, so with society right now and the place we are in, it is essential to have someone in your corner who constantly reminds you and gives you that reassurance that you are perfect the way you are.

BHM: What is your opinion on the treatments available for HS?

Cydney Carter: I think learning and educating myself on what antibiotics do for those living with HS has empowered me to learn more about other treatment options. Initially, I thought antibiotics were solely used to treat infections, but they hold an anti-inflammatory property. So, educating myself more about the treatment options has given me more options as a patient and enabled me not to be afraid of everything. It is worth giving it a shot if it will lighten up the symptoms and ease your HS.

BHM: Do you think there is a lack of representation regarding dermatologists and doctors speaking about the condition and how it can be presented in patients?

Cydney Carter: Absolutely, there is so much stigma around the HS community about it being a black person’s disease, and honestly, the more we learn about HS, the more we see that it does not discriminate. The more we learn, the more I push to ensure we have inclusivity and the proper representation on all fronts, including dermatologists, patient care, and even the ER techs. So many people don’t talk about their HS until there is an emergency and they are sitting in an emergency room. We want to ensure we have the representation of doctors who know what HS is, not just in a dermatologist’s office but in the emergency room. We have so much work to do. We want to empower and educate HS patients so they don’t feel less than or unimportant as they may encounter doctors who don’t know about HS. Then, we also ensure we reach those doctors, dermatologists, and surgeons who can help us later in our journey.

BHM: When did you begin your journey on social media, and how has your impact changed your perspective on HS?

Cydney Carter: I began sharing my journey with HS about two and a half years ago. I was already sharing parts of my life on social media, but I felt like there was such a massive part of me that I was hiding. I would have to take pictures in certain positions; I didn’t want to show flares, and I didn’t want anyone to know what I was dealing with. I remember one day feeling like I did not want to do it anymore; I did not want to keep hiding a huge part of my life and myself. I remember sharing pictures and videos of my flares on TikTok, and before I knew it, there were so many people in the comments, and organically, it grew. Now that I have more followers, it is bigger than me. God has placed a responsibility on me to help bring awareness, and I am passionate about learning about HS. It turned from something I hid for so long and became my lifelong purpose.

HS is a very complex condition, but there is an opportunity for progress within that complexity. According to MedlinePlus, HS affects at least 1 in 100 people, and although it commonly starts during puberty, it can be seen in people of all ages. Those living with HS may experience a variety of symptoms and different progression rates.

By properly understanding HS and who it impacts, patients can advocate for continued research and clinical trials while uplifting the voices of those living with the condition as we strive toward finding more treatment options and a possible cure.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of HS, please seek medical attention. Raising awareness and limiting the fear surrounding HS is possible; we can take it one conversation at a time. To learn more about the condition, check out our story, Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Removing the Stigma and Understanding the Condition.

The post Living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Cydney Carter Shares Her Story appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Why The Terms Advanced Maternal Age and Geriatric Pregnancy Are Used

The most significant decline in women’s fertility happens in our mid-to-late 30s. This means that the quality and quantity of eggs within our ovaries decrease with age. Although these things can make pregnancy after 35 seem more challenging, having a healthy and happy pregnancy after 35 is possible.

Black Women and Maternal Health Risks

According to the CDC, we are three times more likely to pass away from pregnancy-related causes than white women. The Mayo Clinic reported that for Black women 25 and older, pregnancy-related mortality is nearly four times higher than it is for their white counterparts. This gap in mortality can be attributed to many things, including quality healthcare, chronic conditions, implicit bias, and structural racism.

Editor’s Note: This is one of the reasons the Birth Justice movement is vital in our community. It is trying to save lives. Check out this critical interview with Jennie Joseph, Founder of Commonsense Childbirth. 

What Are the Risk Factors?

AMA pregnancies can include numerous risk factors. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the risk of the following may be increased:

• Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in urine, swelling, headaches, and blurred vision.
•  Gestational diabetes is a condition in which women develop high blood sugar during pregnancy.
• Premature birth is when a birth takes place before the 37th week of pregnancy.
• Low birth weight is when babies weigh less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces.
•  Miscarriage is the loss of a fetus before 20 weeks of pregnancy.
• Genetic disorders: with age, the chances of having a child with conditions such as Down syndrome increase.
• Cesarean section (c-section) is the delivery of a baby through surgical incisions made in the abdomen and uterus.
• Stillbirth is when a fetus is lost after the 20th week of pregnancy.

How We Should Take Care of Ourselves If We Are Pregnant After 35

A significant aspect of a healthy AMA pregnancy is how we look after ourselves and lean on our support systems. According to the Cleveland Clinic, we can do a few things to make the journey much easier. These include:

• Maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy.
• Attend all prenatal appointments and screenings.
• Exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.
• Reduce stress and maintain a good sleep schedule.
• Manage any preexisting or new pregnancy conditions.

When creating an exercise and diet plan, we should consult with our healthcare professionals to ensure their practices are safe for us and our babies.

Choosing Our Prepartum and Postpartum Team

An AMA pregnancy can be an exciting journey requiring a trusted team of medical professionals. We will most likely encounter obstetrician-gynecologists and nurse practitioners, but all medical teams are not identical, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). During an AMA pregnancy, our obstetric care team can consist of many people besides an ob-gyn. For instance, midwives, doulas, and specialists may also be helpful. This process is holistic, and medical care teams are designed to provide information and support for us. This can extend to postpartum care, as mending the effects of pregnancy and its potential complications can be long-term.

Check out this Decision Decoder story for more information on choosing a birth team.

We Can’t Forget to Advocate for Ourselves

The CDC suggests taking action if any of the following occurs during pregnancy after 35:

• Talk to a healthcare provider if anything does not feel right.
• Know and seek immediate care if experiencing any urgent warning signs such as severe headaches, extreme swelling, complications with breathing, heavy vaginal bleeding or discharge, extreme fatigue, and more.
• Share recent pregnancy history during each medical care visit for up to one year after delivery.
• Connect with healthcare and social support systems during all stages of pregnancy, including postpartum.

If there are any complications within your pregnancy journey, these tips can help you to get ahead of the complications, especially if they are life-threatening.

Now that caution has been dispersed, we should remember that Advanced Maternal Age pregnancy is not only warning signs and frightful tales. It is also a journey of life lessons and joy. Giving birth after 35 is amazing, and it is possible with proper practices and care. So, hold your head high and embrace the journey.

The post Are You Pregnant After 35? Here’s What You Need to Know appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a condition that occurs when painful lumps and bumps begin to form under the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. When HS appears, it typically flares in places where skin rubs together. Common areas, including the armpits, groin, breasts, and buttocks, often occur where hair follicles become blocked and inflamed.

The flares are compounded when the bumps or abscesses burst and blood and pus leak. HS bumps may heal slowly and become recurring. As a result, those with the condition could experience scarring. When the abscesses recur in the same area, the scarring may progress to tunneling when the sinus track beneath the skin is filled with pus.

We spoke with Dr. Kenyatta Mireku, a board-certified dermatologist, who provided insight on HS and common misconceptions.

BHM: What do dermatologists look for to reach an HS diagnosis?

Dr. Mireku: We look for recurrent painful lesions such as nodules, abscesses, and tunnels in intertriginous (skin folds) and creased areas such as the axillae (underarm), buttocks, breasts, and groin.

BHM: How do dermatologists classify HS regarding its severity?

Dr. Mireku: We use  something called the Hurley stages:

• Stage 1 – solitary or multiple, isolated abscess formation without scarring or sinus tracts.
• Stage 2 – recurrent abscesses, single or multiple widely separated lesions, with sinus tract formation
• Stage 3 – diffuse or broad involvement, with multiple interconnected sinus tracts and abscesses.

BHM: Are there any things that specifically contribute to people developing HS?

Dr. Mireku: Yes, HS is more commonly seen and more challenging to treat in those who are overweight and those who smoke. HS is also more commonly seen in those with a history of inflammatory disorders such as cystic acne and pilonidal cysts and those with scalp disorder, dissecting cellulitis.

In addition, there is likely a genetic predisposition as approximately 40% of patients with HS report a family history of the disease in a first-degree relative.

BHM: Do you have any thoughts regarding why Black people are more prone to HS diagnoses?

Dr. Mireku: Honestly, the exact reason isn’t entirely clear yet. For sure, research has shown that there are higher rates of autoimmune disease and obesity, which are two known associations of HS, in black patients. These may be contributors; HS also seems to have a genetic predisposition.

BHM: How can we promote more healthy conversations about HS?

Dr. Mireku: I think awareness is critical. Many patients are either embarrassed or believe that they have a hygiene issue. Because of this, I feel that the incidence of HS is under-reported. Many people live with it for years before being diagnosed.

Patients need to understand that they have done nothing wrong, are not contagious, and have nothing wrong with their personal hygiene.

Additionally, they shouldn’t feel alone. There are things we can do to help.

Treatment Options

The HS Foundation has provided information about a few approaches for treating HS, including:

• Topical medicines, such as washes and medicines, are applied to the skin’s surface.
• Systemic medicines and pills can help reduce inflammation, reduce bacteria, and boost the immune system.
• Procedures, depending on the severity of one’s HS, laser treatments, lancing, minor surgeries, and more extensive surgeries can be beneficial for reducing inflammation and restructuring the skin.
• Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) targets one’s diet, nutrition, and supplements and promotes mind and body techniques.

Treating HS looks different for everyone, and for many, a combination of treatments will be used, and specialists may be involved as well. Those living with an HS diagnosis or those who think they may have HS should visit their healthcare providers.

The post Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Removing the Stigma and Understanding the Condition appeared first on Black Health Matters.

When someone in our community is diagnosed with advanced bladder cancer, they may feel shocked, fearful, and overwhelmed. But, it is essential to think about the next steps. Here is some information you don’t want to miss.

What Does Your Diagnosis Mean?

A good medical team is essential when navigating an advanced cancer diagnosis, and second opinions should be welcomed.

After the initial diagnosis, doctors will need to see how severe the cancer is and if it has spread to any other parts of the body; this process is called staging. According to the American Cancer Society, Medical professionals typically use the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM system. It is comprised of 3 key factors:

• T describes how far the primary tumor has grown through the bladder wall and whether it has grown into nearby tissues.
• N indicates any cancer spread to lymph nodes near the bladder.
• M indicates if the cancer has spread to distant sites, such as other organs or lymph nodes that are not near the bladder.

With this approach, doctors can assess cancer and how advanced it may be to allocate the proper treatment. The earliest stage cancers are labeled as stage 0, also known as carcinoma in situ, and then they range from stages I (1) through IV (4), according to the American Cancer Society.

What Are Your Treatment Options?

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, there are a few types of treatment that are commonly used to address advanced bladder, including the following:

• Cystectomy (Bladder Removal) Surgery.
• Radiation Therapy.
• Chemotherapy.
•  Immunotherapy.

Cystectomies are performed when bladder cancer completely invades the bladder’s muscular wall. With this method, doctors hope by removing the bladder, all cancerous tissues will be eliminated. Radiation therapy includes the use of special high-energy X-rays that can kill cancer cells and or alter their ability to multiply. Another popular option is chemotherapy, which uses chemical agents implemented orally or through intravenous injection (IV). If effective, chemotherapy disrupts the replication of cancer cells and can potentially shrink tumors. Then, there is immunotherapy, a cancer treatment method that uses drugs and vaccines to aid white blood cells in identifying and attacking the cancerous cells.

It is essential to know the differences between these treatment methods and that every treatment plan looks different; some doctors may suggest a mixture of multiple treatments.

Understand the Roles Professionals on your Medical Team Play.

The type of medical team you may have is based on treatment options and the severity of your condition. The American Cancer Society reports several professionals might be involved in your treatment if you’re navigating advanced bladder cancer:

• Urologists: surgeons who specialize in treating diseases of the urinary system.
• Radiation oncologists: doctors who treat cancer by using radiation therapy.
•  Medical oncologists: doctors who treat cancer with medicine such as those used in immunotherapy and chemotherapy.

You may also encounter other specialists, such as nurses or nutrition specialists; treating advanced bladder cancer is a team effort and requires numerous types of expertise.

Nurture Your Mental Health.

Being diagnosed with any stage of bladder cancer is devastating, and these feelings intensify when patients are told that their cancer is advanced. According to TIME, Bladder cancer patients often experience feelings of anxiety and depression, and their overall mental well-being can suffer greatly as they try to manage their physical health.

According to a 2020 survey with approximately 600 participants, 18% of the participants were diagnosed with depression, and another 16% received anxiety diagnoses. 60% of the participants attested to experiencing anxiety as they fear their cancer will return or worsen. Only 38% of the participants stated that they felt emotionally supported through their journey with cancer.

Although it can be challenging, there are a few things that cancer patients can do to manage their mental health. The following things can be helpful:

Seek support from others, including friends, family, or support groups with similar experiences.

Looking into therapy and getting professional mental health services can help cancer patients immensely.

Lean on those around you. If people are willing to help, do not be afraid to use your support system to aid in your daily tasks.

Give yourself grace; a bladder cancer diagnosis is not easy for anyone; it will take time to adjust to your new lifestyle.

An article from the National Library of Medicine stated that social support, specifically group interventions, results in better outcomes regarding the mental well-being of bladder cancer patients.

What You Should Know About Bladder Cancer Recurrence

According to an article from Healthline, Bladder cancer is notorious for recurring, as research from 2022 displays that the 1-year recurrence rate ranges from 15% to 61%, and the 5-year recurrence rate ranges between 31% and 78%. It is vital for those in remission to continue with their check-ups and to communicate any areas of concern with their healthcare providers.

How Bladder Cancer Impacts Our Community

Although we don’t take the lead in bladder cancer diagnoses, we do face disproportionate challenges regarding deaths caused by bladder cancer. Many barriers contribute to our community taking the lead in bladder cancer deaths.

Some barriers include:

• Healthcare access with the inclusion of availability, transportation, and finances.
• A lack of health insurance and coverage.
• Provider bias can influence recommendations and a lack of diagnoses.

Unfortunately, these barriers can lead to later cancer diagnoses, which contribute to our mortality rates. Still, we can equip ourselves with information so that advocating for ourselves and finding the right medical team can be less stressful.

If you are living with bladder cancer and you are not defined by your diagnosis, holistically understanding your condition can make an immense difference.

The post Navigating an Advanced Bladder Cancer Diagnosis appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Dr. Amber’s Know and Grow Podcast

This podcast is informative and inspiring; it is hosted by a Clinical Psychologist and mother of two, Dr. Amber Thornton. In her episodes, Dr. Amber explores the facets of motherhood, relationships, parenting, mental health, and overall wellness. In one of her latest episodes, “Are Your Kids Attached ‘Enough’? Real Parenting,” Dr. Amber and a special guest discuss the intricacies of parenting and the attachments between parents and their children. They also delve into how social media and digital access complicate parenting. They shed light on some culturally relevant parenting tips and tools that can be used to repair mistakes and strengthen parent-child relationships. This podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Brown Ambition

Launched in 2016, the Brown Ambition Podcast is filled with information regarding finances. The show is hosted by Mandi Woodruff, a personal finance expert and journalist, and Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche, known for her award-winning financial expertise. The Brown Ambition Podcast is the perfect safe space for Black and brown women to learn, grow, and discuss wealth, how to build it, and how to maintain their finances. In their most recent episode titled “Get The Offer Before You Reject It,” Mandi and Tiffany respond to some of their listeners with life and financial advice. They discussed the stories of women who wanted to take career pivots and how fear can be the thief of joy. The two hosts gave optimism to the layered conversation about change. Brown Ambition can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

All Black Men Need Therapy

The All Black Men Need Therapy podcast is an easy attention grabber as the title of the podcast tends to make people curious. The hosts, Chief, Bell, and Prentice, engage in honest and vulnerable dialogue surrounding the complexities of life as Black men. In one of their most recent episodes titled “What’s The Cost,” the trio tackles the silent impact of people’s decisions and how they can alter their lives. Chief, Bell, and Prentice touch on monetary costs and life decisions and how those acts of discernment benefit or contribute to our detriment. This podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Mind Ya Mental

Another excellent mental health and wellness podcast is the Mind Ya Mental show hosted by Clinical Psychologist and professor Dr. Raquel Martin. The Mind Ya Mental podcast focuses on educating, empowering, and uplifting those seeking guidance through the monumental world of mental health and wellness. In one of her recent episodes, “Why Is The Food So Seasoned?” Setting Successful Goals,” Dr Raquel discusses the liberation attached to setting resolutions, the exploration of one’s relationship with food and diets, and the discovery of happiness in the diverse aspects of life. This podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Balanced Black Girl Podcast

The Balanced Black Girl Podcast, hosted by Les Alfred, is an empowering show structured around health, self-care, personal development, and overall well-being. Each episode features special guests who share their insights on their topics of expertise to make listeners feel their best. In Alred’s latest episode titled “How to Strengthen Your Friendships, Make New Friends, and Navigate Friendship Changes with Danielle Bayard Jackson,” Alred and her guest discuss tangible tips on how to overcome challenges regarding one’s social life, making friends, and embracing life changes whether it is a new job, starting a family, or physical distance between friends. They also discuss the connection between friendship and long-term health and how to navigate friendship in all seasons. This podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

It is important to remember that our mental health and wellness matters. The highlighted podcasts can serve as valuable resources for anyone seeking relatability, growth, and support, so turn your volume up, relax, and nourish your mind.

The post 5 Wellness Podcasts to Add to Your Playlist appeared first on Black Health Matters.

You know the saying that when America gets a cold, our people get pneumonia? The lack of Black mental health professionals poses a significant risk to the wellness of our community. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, only 1 in 3 Black adults with mental health issues receive proper care.

Black patients seeking support are forced to face barriers regarding the accessibility of mental health services. Additionally, patients can become lost as they try to navigate the lack of representation, making it even more difficult for Black patients to find practitioners who can understand their unique experiences with cultural competence.

According to the American Psychology Association,  only 5.08% of U.S. psychologists were Black. In 2022, the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPSI) teamed up with the Black Psychiatrists of America and the National Association of Black Social Workers to create a Black Mental Health Workforce Survey. They found:

• 2% of psychiatrists are Black.
• 22% of social workers are Black.
• 7% of marriage and family counselors are Black.
• 11% of professional counselors are Black.

Those who participated in the study shared how this impacts us nationwide:

• 67% reported working in urban cities.
• 16% reported working in suburban locations.
• 6% reported working in rural locations.
• 9% reported that they work in other types of locations.

Economically distressed cities and rural areas have the most significant deficit in trained professionals. Other barriers to care include low reimbursement rates, lack of coverage by employers, and private health insurance programs. Then there are the challenges faced by those covered by Medicare and Medicaid to find providers, The Commonwealth Fund points out.

Black Health Matters spoke with two women on the front lines of this crisis. Arlene Edwards, MA, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and an International Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. (ICAADC), about the mental health care shortage. And Diane Prosper, an LP, discusses solutions for this systematic issue.

BHM: What impact does the lack of representation have on Black patients seeking mental health care?

Arlene Edwards: Many clients prefer to work with clinicians and mental health professionals who look like them, who they can relate to, and who they feel would advocate for them. The lack of representation of Black mental health professionals often results in individuals not seeking services, cycling through various professionals to find one whom they feel comfortable with, and a distrust of their treatment team, resulting in disengagement and premature discharge from services. In addition, clients may not be as forthcoming with their symptoms and mental health needs.

BHM: What health disparities are most apparent to you regarding mental health care for Black patients?

Arlene Edwards: I have noticed several disparities in the treatment of Black patients, including continued stigmatization around substance use and the use of Medicated Assisted Treatment. Withdrawal and post-acute withdrawal symptoms reported by Black patients tend to be minimized and overlooked, resulting in inadequate treatment and less favorable treatment outcomes.

Due to a lack of cultural competency and sensitivity, I have observed Black patients being committed to psychiatric treatment at a disproportion rate compared to non-black patients, misdiagnoses due to inadequate evaluations, and ineffective medication due to patients’ inability to self-advocate and a lack of mental health professionals advocating for their needs.

BHM: How can we address the underrepresentation of Black mental health professionals in the field?

Diane Prosper: I would say by promoting the field more and presenting the notion that there are options other than being a therapist or counselor who does one-on-one therapy. There are so many avenues that a mental health professional can take. The more we know about the options, the more we can broaden our scope.

BHM: What motivated you to pursue a career in mental health?

Diane Prosper: I was motivated by my culture. I have a Caribbean background, so mental health typically is not addressed. I wanted to show others of the Caribbean diaspora that there are professionals who understand their struggle, their values, and motivations. It is a different kind of relating that can help build rapport and distribute information and tools.

There is a critical need for more Black mental health professionals nationwide; mental health care must be more diverse and equitable. Black patients need the opportunity to find a practitioner that makes them feel safe, supported, and free to be vulnerable regarding their experiences. We hope that soon, our community can receive the care it deserves.

The post Where Are All the Black Mental Health Professionals? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

As we mourn the loss of Carl Weathers, let us also take the time to understand ASCVD and the preventative measures that we can take.  

What is ASCVD? 

ASCVD is a form of cardiovascular disease (CVD), referring to health conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. According to the American Heart Association, between 2017 to 2020, approximately 58.9% of Black men had some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD), this makes our community the most prevalent regarding CVD mortality rates. 

As stated by GoodRx Health, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is caused by fatty deposits, also known as plaque buildup, in the arterial walls. Some crucial factors of ASCVD include: 

• ASCVD causes arteries to narrow, this restricts healthy oxygenated blood flow to organs. 
• In some cases, ASCVD can block blood flow to the heart or brain which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. 

Typically, ASCVD goes unnoticed until an artery is very narrow or blocked. Some symptoms can arise if an artery is more than 70% blocked. The Cleveland Clinic has provided an overview of common complications associated with the disease including: 

• Coronary artery disease. 
• Heart attack. 
• Mesenteric ischemia. 
• Peripheral artery disease. 
• Renal artery stenosis. 
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). 
• Carotid artery disease. 

Unfortunately, the conditions associated with ASCVD are not mild, rather than trying to reverse this disease, it is best to identify it early on.  

According to a study from the National Library of Medicine, the rate of ASCVD hospitalizations increased with the factor of comorbid hypertension. Type 2 diabetes can also increase the risk of an ASCVD diagnosis. Additionally, those who have diabetes are at a greater risk for high blood pressure. The interdependence of these conditions can impact people negatively.  

Prevent an ASCVD Diagnosis 

The best way to avoid an ASCVD diagnosis is to take the preventative approach, implementing healthy habits can profoundly change the direction of one’s health journey. According to the Mayo Clinic, some excellent ways to maintain good heart health and wellness include: 

• A healthy diet, eating more whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats. 
• Regular exercise. 
• Monitoring your blood pressure. 
• Stress management and practicing mindfulness to reduce the impact of chronic stress. 
• Visiting your healthcare provider regularly. 

If you think you may have ASCVD, note any concerns and talk with your healthcare provider. An early diagnosis can be a pivotal part of treating ASCVD and preventing it from worsening.  

Carl Weathers was an artistic gift to this world, we appreciate him for his talents and for shining a light on such a massive health concern for our community. 

The post Carl Weathers Died of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: What is ASCVD? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that COVID-19 hospitalizations outperform those for influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). More emergency care visits are resulting in flu diagnoses. Currently, the CDC is closely monitoring the peak of all three of these respiratory threats to keep people informed and safe. However, it does report that those of us with chronic diseases are at greater risk for hospitalization. Among those hospitalized with the flu, 45% had cardiovascular disease, and 62% had hypertension.

With seasonal diseases rising, it can be hard to identify their differences. 

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)  

RSV is a common respiratory virus. According to the CDC, people with RSV have many symptoms. Typically, RSV symptoms appear about four to six days after the infection occurs. Possible symptoms include:

• Runny nose
• Decrease in appetite
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Fever
• Wheezing

COVID-19  

SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has been a topic of interest for the past couple of years. As reported by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, COVID-19 is peaking again due to the rapid emergence of a new variant called JN.1. Although COVID-19 has been known to develop faster than other respiratory viruses, it is still possible to identify the symptoms and get the proper medical care. According to Yale Medicine, symptoms can appear between two and 14 days after exposure. Those who are suffering from COVID-19 may be able to identify with some of the following symptoms:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

In addition to being a global threat to immune systems, COVID-19 is terribly contagious. It is vital to be mindful of this, as spreading the virus can be dangerous for people of all ages.

Influenza (flu) 

The flu is the last addition to the trifecta of viruses, which varies from mild to potentially fatal cases. The flu is notorious for appearing suddenly, and that element of surprise can be devastatingly dangerous. Yale Medicine highlights some of the symptoms to look out for:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue
•  Vomiting
• Diarrhea

The symptoms of these viruses can overlap; to be accurately diagnosed, concerned patients should consult their medical professionals for laboratory tests. In addition to getting vaccinated, people can do a few things to protect themselves. Yale Medicine suggests the following:

• Strategic masking, wearing well-fitting masks that cover one’s mouth and nose, can prevent the flow of germs.
• Utilizing air filters and promoting air circulation by opening windows.
• Using household cleaners that can kill bacteria.
• Washing one’s hands as needed.

When trying to prevent the onset of respiratory diseases, the quality of being proactive should not be undervalued. Using one’s discernment is a priceless tool, as it is imperative to stay away from people who are sick; close proximity to illnesses can significantly increase the chances of exposure to a respiratory virus.

Vaccines are another source of protection against the viral triad. And are even more important to consider if you have a chronic disease. According to the CDC, the existing COVID-19 vaccines are still effective for the JN.1 variant. RSV and flu vaccines can be helpful as well. Patients can discuss the best options for vaccines with their healthcare providers.

The post RSV, COVID-19 and Influenza: Respiratory Triad Prevention & Peaks appeared first on Black Health Matters.