Dr. Pruitt has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles in various medical journals. His research interests include minority health affairs, sickle cell anemia, and HIV in minority populations.

He holds a certification in Good Clinical Practice and Trials from the Clinical Trials Network (CTN) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). He also serves as an Institutional Biosafety Committee member for Advarra Corporation. Dr. Pruitt is currently the chief medical research director for PBJ Medical Associates and the 7^th District Medical Health and Initiative chairman for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Dr. Pruitt, an esteemed physician and medical scientist, provided us with an expert overview of lung cancer, covering everything you need to know, including an overview of the different types of lung cancer, lung cancer risk factors, diagnosis and screening, and how lung cancer affects the black community.

Black Health Matters: Let’s start with a basic but very important question, what do we need to know about lung cancer?

Dr. Pruitt: Lung cancer makes up about 13% of all cancers but accounts for 90% of the cases of fatality. The peak incidence is between 75 to 79 years of age, and men are at a slightly higher risk than women.

There are basically 3 major types of lung cancer: The majority of people with lung cancer have non-small cell lung cancer, so that’s what we will focus on.

Black Health Matters: Are there any major risk factors or causes of lung cancer?

Dr. Pruitt: Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor and causes an overwhelming percentage of cases. Other risk factors include radon gas, radiotherapy, family history and chemical exposure.

Secondhand smoke exposure is an additional risk factor that shouldn’t be overlooked. Various studies have shown that exposure to secondhand smoke increases your chance of lung cancer upward to 20 to 30%.

Black Health Matters: As you mentioned, smoking and smoke exposure are major risk factors, is cigarette smoke the only thing that should be avoided?

Dr. Pruitt: A lot of people come in and say, well, I don’t smoke cigarettes I smoke cigars, or use e-cigarette or vaping devices. It is important to highlight that cigar smoke, like cigarette smoke, contains the same toxins and cancer-causing chemicals that are harmful to both smokers and non-smokers. Secondhand cigar smoke is possibly more toxic than cigarette smoke, because cigar smoke has a higher level of cancer-causing substances.

So to answer your question, cigarette smoke is not the only thing that should be avoided because cigars and e-cigarettes can cause cancer as well. Marijuana, when smoked or inhaled, may also pose a potential risk.

Black Health Matters: What can someone undergoing lung cancer screening expect during the appointment?

Dr. Pruitt: If someone comes into the clinic for screening, one of the things that we would do is a basic medical history and perform a physical exam. If lung cancer is suspected, additional testing and imaging may be requested such as X-rays or CT scans.  The provider may look for signs of a tumor, scarring, or fluid buildup. They might also request a sputum test to test for cancer cells or other more invasive tests such as a biopsy which involves taking cells from the lung and examining them under a microscope or a bronchoscope where a tube and built-in camera are inserted through the nose and into the lungs to determine if any cancer cells are present.

Black Health Matters: Can anyone request testing for lung cancer?

Dr. Pruitt: It is recommended that lung cancer screening be done for high-risk individuals starting at age 50 through 80, and for individuals with an extensive smoking history, those who are currently smoking, or who have quit in the last 15 years.

Black Health Matters: How does lung cancer affect the Black community?

Dr. Pruitt: Black men are about 12% more likely to develop lung cancer than white men. That rate is about 16% lower in Black women than white women, but the gap is closing.

According to the American Lung Association, Black individuals with lung cancer were about 15% less likely to be diagnosed early. Notice I said early, meaning that we can catch it in the more treatable stage which helps longevity and survival rates. We are 19% less likely to receive surgical treatment, 11% more likely to not receive any treatment, and 16% less likely to survive 5 years compared to white individuals.

Additionally, the eligibility criteria set for lung cancer screening previously was not ideal, especially for the Black population with an increased risk of lung cancer. Now we have adjusted that with the goal of catching more cases earlier and increasing survival.

Black Health Matters: What advice do you have for those who have been diagnosed or undergoing treatment for lung cancer?

Dr. Pruitt: Clinical trials provide access to treatments that have yet to enter the market. So sometimes entering into a clinical trial may be beneficial to get early treatment that may not have been released yet.

Interested in learning more about non-small cell lung cancer clinical trials? Visit here to learn more.

The post Lung Cancer in the Black Community: An Expert’s Insight appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Sydney became an advocate to dispel the stigma that lung cancer is a smoker’s disease. She wants to increase awareness about the need for more lung cancer research, get rid of the stigma, and obtain research funding on the same level as breast, ovarian and other women’s cancers to educate others that lung cancer kills more people than those cancers combined.

Dr. Barned is a lung cancer survivor turned advocate. Her story from diagnosis to advocacy is one of honesty and unwavering hope. Through her personal experiences and powerful insights, she sheds light on the challenges and triumphs she faced throughout her lung cancer journey.

Black Health Matters: First, tell us a bit about how you were diagnosed with lung cancer and what that experience was like for you.

Dr. Barned: So, in February 2016, I realized that I was having some shortness of breath with my exercise routines. I have always been very active in various activities, so when I noticed that my exercise tolerance was diminished and I was struggling during my 5K runs, I knew something was wrong. I went and got an x-ray and was initially diagnosed with walking pneumonia.

I later started experiencing a chronic cough, so I decided to see a lung specialist (pulmonologist). The x-ray was repeated, and it had improved but was still abnormal. I was then diagnosed with hyperactive airway disease and prescribed a steroid. My symptoms continued to worsen so I saw a different pulmonologist. I completed another x-ray and requested a CT scan which showed a mass that was compressing my airway.

After doing biopsies, bronchoscopies, and various other tests, I was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. As a physician who was active, had never smoked, and was pretty obnoxious about telling people to stop smoking because of the risk of lung cancer, the irony was shocking.

Black Health Matters: Can you share more about your advocacy work?

Dr. Barned: I have dedicated myself to educating others on the fact that anyone with lungs can get lung cancer, and that if you have certain risk factors to request screening for lung cancer. Understanding the criteria is something that we need to encourage the public to do and to make sure that if they have certain risk factors or present with certain symptoms that they need to insist that they get the test necessary to make sure that lung cancer is not caught in its later stages.

Black Health Matters: What’s one piece of advice you would share with someone who is considering requesting additional testing?

Dr. Barned: Early detection is very curative. The earlier the cancer is detected, the earlier you can begin treatment.

Black Health Matters: Thank you for sharing your story. Any final thoughts?

Dr. Barned: Though lung cancer survival rates are much lower at later stages, getting diagnosed at stage 4 is one of the reasons why lung cancer advocacy is so important to me. I’m so happy to be a source of education and to tell my story.

Want to learn more about non-small cell lung cancer clinical trials? Visit here to learn more.

The post Championing Change: Physician and Lung Cancer Advocate Shares Personal Story appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) makes up nearly 90% of all head and neck cancers.^1,2 This type of head and neck cancer typically includes cancers of the throat, nasal cavity, sinuses, nose, mouth, and larynx (voice box).^2,3

^{Head and neck cancers are more common in men than women, and in those over the age of 50.3, You are more likely to be impacted by head and neck cancers if you use tobacco or alcohol or if you have been diagnosed with oral human papillomavirus (HPV).3} In a recent study, Black patients with head and neck cancers had consistently worse outcomes than their white counterparts.⁴ Black patients are also less likely to receive adequate care for head and neck cancer.

Causes of Head and Neck Cancer

Many of the known causes of head and neck cancers are preventable. Awareness of these factors can help you make decisions that can lessen your risk of exposure. Principal risk factors for head and neck cancers include tobacco and alcohol use and exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV).³

Other risk factors associated with SCC of the head and neck include:

• Exposure to harmful substances on the job, such as asbestos, dust, metals, and wood
• Ebstein-Barr virus infection
• Genetics
• Radiation treatments

Use of harmful substances

The use of any type of alcohol or tobacco is one of the two major risk factors. Inhaling tobacco smoke even if you are not smoking directly may also cause harm.³ The risk associated with developing these cancers is greater in those who use both alcohol and tobacco than it is in those who use one or the other.³

HPV infection

HPV is classified as a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Some types of HPV are associated with a risk of developing cancer. HPV infection is mostly associated with cancers of the tonsils or tongue.

How to Reduce Your Risk

Two main ways you can decrease your risk of developing SCC of the head and neck are by avoiding products that contain alcohol or tobacco and protecting yourself from HPV infection.^2,3

If you are a smoker, you can greatly decrease your risk if you quit smoking. You may think that quitting is easier said than done, but there are many resources available to help you. To further decrease your risk, you should stop using all tobacco products and avoid alcohol.⁵

HPV is the most common STI. The HPV vaccine can help protect you from HPV infections that have the potential to cause cancer. If you have not been vaccinated, speak with your healthcare provider to determine if the HPV vaccine is right for you. Because HPV is an STI, having protected sex and limiting your number of sexual partners can also help lower your risk of infection.^2,3

Symptoms of Head and Neck Cancer

Being able to recognize the signs and symptoms of head and neck cancer is an important part of raising awareness. The symptoms associated with head and neck cancer can be easily mistaken as symptoms of other conditions.^3,5

Symptoms include:

• White or red patches in the mouth, including the gums or tongue
• Pain in the neck or throat that does not go away
• A lump or hard area with or without pain
• Sore throat or pain when swallowing
• Chronic sinus infections
• Voice changes
• Nosebleeds

If you are experiencing signs and symptoms, discuss your concerns with your healthcare team, especially if you are at higher risk.

Help Raise Awareness

The Black community has historically been underrepresented in clinical trials across many areas of disease research. The harsh reality is that treatment and outcome disparities along racial divides exist among people with head and neck cancers.⁶ Minorities represent close to 40% of the United States population but only 11% of participants in clinical trials for FDA approved cancer drugs in 2020 were Black or Hispanic. Further research may help to understand exactly why. Still, in the meantime, it is important that we work to raise awareness of this lack of representation by increasing the participation of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) in clinical research. Doing so will help ensure that future research and treatment advances incorporate study data from minority participants and apply to patients within these communities.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with head and neck cancer, you may be eligible to participate in the iintune-1 study. If you are interested in clinical trial participation visit MassiveBio for more information.

– – –

References:

1. Squamous Cell Skin Cancer
2. Penn Medicine. Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
3. National Cancer Institute. Head and Neck Cancers
4. Liu, J. C., et al. “Racial survival disparities in head and neck cancer clinical trials.” Journal of the National Cancer Institute (2022): djac219-djac219.
5. American Society of Clinical Oncology. Head and Neck Cancer
6. Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Gender and race interaction revealed in cancer survival disparities.

American Society of Clinical Oncology. Addressing the Barriers to Minority Participation in Cancer Clinical Trials

The post Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: An Overview | Clinical Trials appeared first on Black Health Matters.

 Black Community: Insights into the APOL1 Gene

Presented by:

Dr. Stacy A. Johnson

Sponsored by Vertex

Dr. Stacy A. Johnson addressed an engaged crowd on kidney disease, a subject “near and dear” to her heart. As the Medical Director of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Johnson helps develop innovative treatments using research. According to a study published by Johns Hopkins in 2020, “Black Americans experience kidney failure at three times the rate of whites.” Dr. Johnson explained what kidneys are, their desired function, ways to identify that they have been compromised, and potential genetic components of kidney issues that could disproportionately impact Black people.

What are the kidneys?

Dr. Johnson explained that the organs provide important functions in the body. “They work twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, every day to filter and clean your blood,” she said. “The kidneys get rid of excess fluid, they get rid of excess waste, they help balance electrolytes.”

The doctor’s presentation helped the audience understand what the organs look like and how they fit into the body’s systems. She described one portion of the organ as a sort of tennis racket. “Think of that as a filter,” she said. “You want a filter because your blood contains things you want to keep and other things you want to get rid of. So you can’t just have a structure that lets everything out.”

What are some of the symptoms of kidney disease?

“Sometimes the kidneys get damaged, and when they don’t work properly, you start to see some signs that you can tell that the kidneys are not working properly,” she said. Fatigue and perceived weight gain can be signs. “So one of the signs that the kidney is not working properly is accumulation of excess fluid. This might show up as swelling in your legs. It may even show up as high blood pressure because your kidneys are not removing extra salt. Then, the other thing that happens is that when that tennis racket-looking filter gets damaged, it can no longer do its job properly. So instead of keeping the good stuff like protein inside your body, it spills the protein into the urine, which is not what you want.”

Kidney disease is progressive, meaning it accelerates. “It progresses. Eventually, it can get to the point where you need to have dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive,” said the doctor.

How common is kidney disease?

Dr. Johnson revealed how common kidney disease is. “The CDC estimates that approximately one in seven adults has chronic kidney disease,” she told the audience. She acknowledged that the disease can be lying dormant, threatening unsuspecting sufferers. “The dangerous thing is that of the people, of the 37 million or so adults who have chronic kidney disease in the US, nine out of ten of them don’t even know they have it.” She shared conditions that can lead to kidney disease, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and auto-immune diseases.

What kind of research is being done on kidney disease in the Black community?

Dr. Johnson shared insights into the research on the APOL1 Gene. She outlined risk variants. “Among African-Americans, the people who had the most severe type of kidney disease actually also had these changes in their DNA,” she said.

How You Can Take Action:

The session provided valuable tips for preserving your kidney health.

•  Pay attention! Inspect changes in your body so you can accurately describe them to your doctor.
• Learn about the therapies available. If you are experiencing kidney issues, do not assume that only one treatment works for you.
• Ask your healthcare provider about the research on the APOL1 Gene and what you need to know.

The post Understanding Genetic Kidney Disease: Insights on the APOL-1 Gene appeared first on Black Health Matters.

If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, it is important that you take your diagnosis seriously. With proper management, it can be controlled by making healthy lifestyle choices and working closely with your healthcare provider. Managing your diabetes can also help reduce your risk of developing complications.

The key to successfully managing your type 2 diabetes is understanding the facts. Being informed is a first step to taking control of your health. Once you understand the facts, you can be proactive about dispelling myths surrounding the condition and feel inspired to take action.

Lilly is also working to help you take control of your health through clinical trial participation. Click here to learn more.

Fact or Fiction

Continue reading to review some common type 2 diabetes myths and facts.

MYTH: I will have diabetes because several people in my family have it and there’s nothing I can do about it.

FACT: While having a family history of diabetes does increase your risk of developing the condition, it is not the only contributing factor. It does not guarantee that you will automatically have diabetes. The development of type 2 diabetes can be influenced by a combination of genetics and lifestyle. Even though you can’t control your genetics, you can control your lifestyle.

MYTH: If I have excess weight, it is only a matter of time before I develop type 2 diabetes.

FACT: Having excess weight is among the strongest risk factors for type 2 diabetes. The more excess weight you carry, the higher your risk. While having excess weight is another risk factor of diabetes, it is not the only contributor. This risk also varies among individuals which is why some people with excess weight never develop diabetes and others who are at a healthy weight do.

MYTH: I have not experienced any symptoms so my blood sugars must be normal.

FACT: High blood sugar levels can occur without notable symptoms especially in the early ages. On the other hand, some people do experience symptoms. High blood sugar levels can still contribute to long term damage, even if you aren’t experiencing symptoms.

Common symptoms of high blood sugar include:

• Increased thirst
• Increased hunger
• Frequent urination
• Unexplained tiredness
• Unexplained weight loss

MYTH: I have to stick to a specific diet in order to manage diabetes.

FACT: There is not a one-size-fits-all diet for people living with diabetes. It is most important to make healthy food choices, and it’s recommended that you follow a meal plan that is specific to your health needs and lifestyle. Key components for managing your diet include carbohydrate management, portion control, and consistency.

MYTH: I don’t need to take medication to manage my diabetes.

FACT: There are several factors that determine whether you will need to take medication to manage your diabetes. Lifestyle changes can be highly effective in managing the condition. While some people are able to successfully manage their condition without medication, others may require multiple medications and that’s okay.

Remember that your type 2 diabetes journey is unique. You should discuss with your healthcare provider whether or not medications are needed. Work with your care team to adjust your treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.

References

• National Library of Medicine. Diabetes myths and facts
• American Diabetes Association. Know Your Facts About Diabetes
• Debunking type 2 diabetes misconceptions

The post Is Type 2 Diabetes Manageable? Dispelling the Myths appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Type 2 diabetes disproportionately impacts the Black community. African Americans are 60% more likely to be diagnosed with the condition and at least twice as likely to be hospitalized and experience long-term complications including death, when compared to non-Hispanic whites

Factors that may contribute to this health disparity include genetics, socioeconomic factors, and access to quality healthcare. Prevention and management are key factors to reduce the impact of type 2 diabetes among African Americans and improve outcomes.

You can navigate your type 2 diabetes diagnosis by understanding the risks and making informed choices. There are several adverse health consequences of type 2 diabetes but many of them may be preventable.

Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes

In general, type 2 diabetes control is evaluated by measuring routine blood sugar readings. Blood sugar goals may vary slightly based on patient-specific factors such as age and presence of other health problems. There are two ranges for blood sugar goals.

• Fasting (before meal): 80-130 mg/dL
• After a meal (2 hours): less than 180 mg/dL

The A1c test is a blood test that is used to measure the 3-month average of your blood sugars. It is used to provide additional insight into diabetes control. A1c is expressed as a percentage with a recommended A1c target of < 7% for most people with diabetes.

Consequences of Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes

If left uncontrolled, type 2 diabetes can result in long term consequences over time. These health risks involve various parts of the body and can greatly impact quality of life and overall health.

Long-term complications of uncontrolled type 2 diabetes include:

Heart problems

Heart disease is the most fatal complication associated with type 2 diabetes. People living with diabetes are two times more likely to have a stroke or heart disease than people who don’t have diabetes. Symptoms of heart disease include shortness of breath, tiredness, chest pain, and numbness in your arms or legs. You can maintain your heart health by managing your diabetes.

Kidney damage

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney damage resulting in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Our kidneys serve as blood filters for our bodies. High blood sugar levels can be present in uncontrolled type 2 diabetes and cause the kidneys to have to work harder, diminishing their function and causing damage long term.  CKD often develops slowly, and it may be difficult to identify symptoms of kidney disease until it’s too late. You can prevent kidney disease by keeping your blood sugar at goal.

Nerve damage

Nerve damage affects nearly 50% of people living with type 2 diabetes. The most common type is peripheral neuropathy which impacts nerves in the hands, feet, legs, and arms. Symptoms include tingling, pain, increased sensitivity, or numbness of the affected area. Controlling your blood sugar is the best way to prevent nerve damage. You should also have foot exams completed routinely and help identify issues proactively.

Vision issues

Diabetes can damage your eyes over time. It is the leading cause of new cases of blindness in adults 18-64 years of age. People of color are at higher risk of going blind due to diabetes complications. While there aren’t any signs or symptoms to monitor for, you can be proactive by completing an annual eye exam to monitor for eye disease and delay vision loss.

Mental health

Living with diabetes and managing your condition can come with an overload of different emotions. You may feel anxious, worried, discouraged, and frustrated. Address mental health concerns with your health care provider and consider speaking with a therapist or counselor if needed

Take Control

You can lower your risk of diabetes-related complications by making healthy lifestyle changes, monitoring your readings regularly and working to keep them at goal, taking your medications as prescribed, and following up with your doctor regularly. Medication therapy plays a major role in lowering your risk, especially for those at high risk or who have prediabetes.

Take control of your health and avoid the consequences of type 2 diabetes through informed choices, regular checkups, taking your medications, and committing to a healthy lifestyle.

Lilly is also working to help you take control of your health through clinical trial participation. Click here to learn more.

References

• American Diabetes Association. Statistics About Diabetes
• United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health. Diabetes and African Americans
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Manage Blood Sugar
• American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Complications
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diabetes and Mental Health

The post Avoiding Consequences of Type 2 Diabetes appeared first on Black Health Matters.

A family history of diabetes is usually influenced by genetics. Certain genes can influence insulin resistance, beta-cell function, and glucose metabolism, which are all key factors in type 2 diabetes development. Understanding the link between family history and type 2 diabetes is important. It highlights the role of genetics and provides an opportunity for early detection and prevention.

Do you come from a family where multiple generations have dealt with this condition? It may have started with your family, but it can end with you. Lifestyle changes have been shown to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes, even if you have a family history of the disease. You can take charge of your health and make informed choices to reduce your risk.

Understanding the Connection

Genetics and family history impact the development of type 2 diabetes in different ways.

• You may inherit genes that increase your risk.
• You may have gene changes that contribute to insulin resistance, a key factor of type 2 diabetes.
• Genetic factors may affect insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
• Families not only share genes but also lifestyle and environmental factors such as eating habits and physical activity that can also contribute to diabetes risk.

What we know about the genetic component of type 2 diabetes is constantly evolving.

Assessing Your Risk

Diabetes risk is influenced by a combination of factors, including genetics, family history, and lifestyle. You can assess your risk by collecting information about your family’s health history and determining which relatives in your family, if any, have diabetes.

Genetics and family history can increase your risk, but they do not guarantee you will develop diabetes. By assessing your risk and making informed choices, you can take proactive steps to reduce your risk of developing diabetes or manage the condition effectively.

Consider taking the American Diabetes Association’s type 2 risk test. You should also seek guidance from your healthcare team to help further assess your risk and develop an action plan.

Reducing Your Risk

By maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a balanced diet rich in whole foods, staying physically active, and completing regular health checkups, you can lessen the influence of genetic and family history factors.

A family history of diabetes increases the risk but does not guarantee the development of type 2 diabetes. Always seek medical guidance when it comes to managing your diabetes, even with lifestyle improvements.

With the right knowledge and lifestyle choices, you can begin your journey towards a healthier future.

Lilly is also working to help you take control of your health through clinical trial participation. Click here to learn more.

References

• Type 2 Diabetes: All in the Family?
• Family Health History and Diabetes
• Medline. Type 2 Diabetes
• American Diabetes Association. Hyperglycemia (High Blood Glucose)

The post The Link Between Family History and Type 2 Diabetes appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Prediabetes occurs when your blood sugar levels are elevated, but not high enough to be considered type 2 diabetes. It serves as a warning sign that you should begin taking action to avoid potential long-term consequences of uncontrolled blood sugar such as heart, kidney, nerve, and eye issues to name a few If you have prediabetes, taking action today for a healthier lifestyle may help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. The National Diabetes Prevention Program aims to help people at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes lower their risk.

As prediabetes progresses, the pancreas (responsible for releasing insulin) may struggle to keep up with the demand of managing rising blood sugar levels which can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes. The hormone insulin plays an important role in regulating the amount of sugar in your blood. It allows the cells to then use this sugar as an energy source, or it can be stored for later use. Living with prediabetes presents an opportunity to take control of your health and prevent disease progression.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

Adapting your lifestyle while living with type 2 diabetes is a necessity. The good news is that prediabetes can be managed by making meaningful changes to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Awareness

Prediabetes awareness is an important part of preventing type 2 diabetes. Being aware that you have the condition presents the opportunity to be proactive and make positive lifestyle changes.

Prediabetes can easily go undetected as there are no clear symptoms.  Some risk factors that may put you at a higher risk of developing prediabetes include carrying excess weight, your age (45 or older), having an immediate relative with type 2 diabetes, a personal history of gestational diabetes, and a personal history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, and PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects women during their reproductive years.

People of color including African Americans are also at a higher risk. If any of these risk factors apply to you or if you have concerns regarding your blood sugar, speak with your doctor to address your concerns and have your blood sugar levels monitored.

Lifestyle Changes

Lose weight: Losing even a small amount of weight (about 10 pounds) can reduce blood pressure in many overweight people. It may even prevent high blood pressure.

Increase physical activity: Try to get 30 minutes of physical activity at least 5 days each week or as recommended by your healthcare provider. Limit the amount of time you spend sitting down to less than 90 minutes at any one time.

Follow healthy eating habits. What you eat can affect your entire body, including your heart, brain, skin and bones. Your body needs healthy food to be at its best. Eating smaller portions, drinking more water, and adding more fruits and vegetables are all ways for you to eat healthier

To learn what the right amounts are for you, try the personalized MyPlate Plan at https://www.myplate.gov/myplate-plan

Prevention is Possible

Diabetes can affect many parts of your body. When blood sugar stays high, your eyes, heart, kidneys, and nerves can be harmed. Taking good care of yourself today may help you avoid problems in the future.

Lilly is also working to improve outcomes in patients with prediabetes click here to learn more.

References

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Diabetes Statistics
• Prediabetes – Your Chance to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
• What you need to know about prediabetes
• Diabetes and your health: Caring for your heart while managing diabetes
• Making healthy food choices
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Preventing Type 2 Diabetes
• Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020 – 2025, Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025
• How diabetes can affect your body

The post Type 2 Diabetes Prevention: Adapting Your Lifestyle While Living With Prediabetes appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Prepare for Appointments

Prior to your appointment:

• Write down any questions or concerns you’d like to address to ensure that you don’t forget. This will also allow you to focus on topics that are important to you.
• Your provider will likely assess your symptoms at each visit. Let them know if there is anything you have tried that has made your symptoms better or worse. This includes over the counter oral and topical medications.
• Aim to be as detailed and specific as possible.
• Be prepared to discuss which parts of your body and how much of your body is affected by lesions, what symptoms you are currently experiencing (pain, itching, redness, etc.), and if you have identified any triggers.

Be open and honest

Follow up appointments allow your provider to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments. Nothing should be off limits with your provider. Follow up visits are time for you to be honest about how you’re doing and provide feedback. Your feedback can help your care team make informed treatment decisions.

This is the time to be transparent about what you feel is working for you as well as any challenges you are facing. This is also a great time to make your provider aware of any side effects you are experiencing. Any mental or emotional challenges should also be discussed.

Collaborate in Decision Making

Managing your psoriasis should be a joint effort between you and your care team. Your treatment plan should align with your lifestyle and goals. Discuss your current treatment plan, goals and preferences.

If the process seems overwhelming, bring a trusted individual such as a family member or friend that will speak up and advocate for you.

Ask questions and seek clarification

If something is unclear, ask for clarification. If you still don’t understand, ask for additional resources that will enhance your understanding. There are many layers to living with psoriasis.

Helpful questions to ask include:

• Psoriasis is associated with several comorbidities such as heart disease. Am I being monitored for these?
• Are there any lifestyle or dietary changes that may improve my symptoms?
• There are surveys that assess quality of life in patients with psoriasis. Should I take one?
• Are there any risks associated with my current treatment plan?
• I know there is no cure for psoriasis, but at what point should I be concerned that my symptoms aren’t improving?
• I am not responding well to my current treatment, what other treatment options are available?
• Do I qualify for any ongoing clinical trials for psoriasis?

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis and would like to learn more about an ongoing clinical trial the LATITUDE study.

References

• Health and quality of life outcomes. Quality of life in patients with psoriasis.
• Singapore Medical Journal. Management of psoriasis in primary care.

The post 4 Healthcare Provider Tips: A Discussion Guide for Patients Living with Psoriasis appeared first on Black Health Matters.

This lifelong condition is characterized by the presentation of itchy plaques on the skin’s surface. Psoriasis can be classified as mild, moderate, and severe disease.The majority of cases are classified as mild to moderate. Plaques can appear anywhere on the skin but appear most commonly on the abdomen and midsection, scalp, hands, feet, elbows, and knees. Plaques are patches of skin covered in white or silver colored scales that vary in size and are round in shape. The peak ages of onset are between 20-30 years of age and 50-60 years of age. Men and women are affected equally. Psoriasis is not contagious.

While psoriasis is less prevalent in African Americans than Caucasians, it is underdiagnosed in African Americans and people of color. This may be because psoriasis is easier to identify on lighter skin tones. Patients with psoriasis have a higher risk of developing heart disease and risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, conditions which disproportionately impact African Americans.

Symptoms

Symptoms of plaque psoriasis may vary from person to person.

Some common symptoms of plaque psoriasis may include:

• Itching
• Burning
• Soreness
• Pain and discomfort associated with cracking and bleeding of the skin
• Nail changes

There may also be bleeding if a scale is removed. You may also notice that plaques appear to be equally distributed in a mirror-image or symmetrical fashion on various parts of the body such as the knees and elbows.

Causes and Triggers

The exact cause of plaque psoriasis is not completely understood. It is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. If you have an immediate family member with plaque psoriasis, you are more likely to get it. There are several other risk factors associated with plaque psoriasis. Avoiding triggers may help reduce and manage symptoms. Other risk factors include:

• Stress
• Infection
• Use of certain medications
• Skin injuries
• Dry, cold weather
• Tobacco use
• Heavy alcohol use

Diagnosis

Plaque psoriasis can be difficult to diagnose and is typically established by physical examination. Your doctor may examine your skin and assess your symptoms. A skin biopsy is not required but may help your provider rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Plaque psoriasis is a chronic condition that requires long term treatment. There is no definitive cure, but the main goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

A 2014 survey revealed that close to 50% of patients with psoriasis had not been seen by a healthcare provider in the past year. Many were either not taking prescription medications or only using a topical treatment. This gap in care highlights the importance of furthering clinical research to study the safety and efficacy of potential new therapies to treat the condition.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis learn more about the LATITUDE study.

References

• Kimmel, G. W., & Lebwohl, M. (2018). Psoriasis: Overview and Diagnosis. Evidence-Based Psoriasis: Diagnosis and Treatment
• National Psoriasis Foundation. Psoriasis Statistics
• American Journal of Managed Care. Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Overview
• American Academy of Dermatology Association. What Is Psoriasis?
• Dermatology and Therapy. Clinical Goals and Barriers to Effective Psoriasis Care
• Psoriasis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take

The post All About Plaque Psoriasis: What You Need to Know appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Psoriasis typically appears in the form of red plaques covered in white or silver colored scales. This may appear differently on individuals with darker skin. Data from a national study revealed that African Americans are more likely to have undiagnosed psoriasis. Awareness of symptoms and what to look for can help lessen the likelihood of a missed or delayed diagnosis and equip you to better manage the condition.

Variations in Presentation

On fair or light skin, psoriasis looks red covered with silver scales. In African Americans, psoriasis often presents as more of a purple or violet color. On darker skin tones, it may present as a darker brown color which can be difficult to recognize.  Plaques may also be thicker and have more scales, impact larger areas of the body, and may be misdiagnosed as dark patches rather than active flares.

Key Considerations

Key considerations when evaluating psoriasis in skin of color include:

• Lesions may appear more pigmented rather than red in color
• Possibility of increased area of involvement when compared to lighter skin
• Temporary discoloration may occur at the site once psoriasis clears
• Dyspigmentation is a common occurrence and concern
• Physical symptoms of other conditions may be similar to psoriasis

Challenges in Diagnosis

There are challenges that exist when diagnosing psoriasis in skin of color. A recent study revealed that when compared to white patients, patients with darker skin tones may wait up to 3 times longer to receive a psoriasis diagnosis and can be 4 times as likely to require a biopsy to confirm diagnosis.

Receiving an appropriate diagnosis is the first step to moving forward with access to treatment options. It may be beneficial to follow up with a dermatologist who is a person of color or  specializes in treating skin of color. It is important that you advocate for yourself and ensure you are comfortable expressing your concerns to your provider.

Treatment considerations

Psoriasis treatment is the same regardless of skin color. Because patients of color with psoriasis may experience more severe disease and thicker plaques, more aggressive treatment may be necessary.

Patients with darker skin should also use caution when utilizing phototherapy as a treatment option due to the increased risk of changes in skin color of the affected areas. If you are living with scalp psoriasis, your provider may recommend treatment that includes daily use of medicated shampoo. If daily hair washing is not part of your usual routine, communicate your concerns with your provider. Communication is key to ensure your treatment plan works best for you.

Resources and Support

Regardless of skin tone, patients of all races living with psoriasis face various challenges. You are not alone in your journey.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis learn more about the LATITUDE study.

References

• The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. Psoriasis in Skin of Color: Epidemiology, Genetics, Clinical Presentation, and Treatment Nuances
• Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. The prevalence of previously diagnosed and undiagnosed psoriasis in US adults: Results from NHANES 2003–2004
• American Academy of Dermatology Association. Can You Get Psoriasis if You Have Skin of Color?
• National Psoriasis Foundation. Skin of Color Resource Center
• Racial Disparities in the Diagnosis of Psoriasis

The post Psoriasis in Skin of Color: Know the Signs appeared first on Black Health Matters.

CAR T-cell therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for a range of blood cancers. It utilizes genetically modified T cells to help target and eliminate cancer cells. CAR-T cell therapy has expanded and offers new hope for patients with previously limited treatment options.

CAR T-cell therapy is an example of how immunotherapy is transforming cancer treatment

The process of CAR T-cell therapy

CAR T-cell therapies are personalized for each patient. They are made by obtaining the patient’s T cells and recreating them in a specialized laboratory through an intricate process that can take several weeks.

NIH. National Cancer Institute.  CAR T-Cell Therapy Infographic

Cell collection

Patient’s blood is drawn, and T cells are collected, removed, and separated from the blood.

Cell creation

CAR T-cells are created in a special laboratory through a process. CAR genes are inserted into the T cells. Millions of CAR T-cells are produced.

Cell infusion

CAR T-cells are returned to the patient’s bloodstream via IV infusion in a hospital or clinic.

Cell activation

The CAR T-cells circulate in the bloodstream, attaching to the cancer cells and killing them.

Cell expansion

The CAR T-cells can continue to multiply which helps provide long-term activity of these cells with the goal of preventing cancer relapse.

Learn more about this process here.

Which blood cancers are available for CAR T-cell therapy?

The field of CAR T-cell therapy is rapidly evolving. Ongoing research is expanding its use to include additional blood cancers and solid tumors. CAR T-cell therapy provides viable treatment options for patients who may not have many options left.

Patients with blood cancers should discuss treatment options and eligibility for CAR T-cell therapy with their healthcare team to determine the most appropriate course of action based on individual patient factors.

CAR T-cell therapy can help treat the following blood cancers:

• B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
• B-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
  • Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL)
    • Primary Mediastinal B-cell Lymphoma (PMBCL)
  • Follicular Lymphoma (FL)
  • Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL)
• Multiple Myeloma (MM

These treatments are typically appropriate in patients who have tried and failed other treatment options. Consider discussing with your provider if CAR T-cell therapy may be an option for you.

Hope for the future

CAR T-cell therapy continues to develop with ongoing research aiming to improve its safety and effectiveness. For patients facing challenging blood cancers, CAR T-cell therapy represents a treatment option that offers hope for remission and improved quality of life.

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References

• National Cancer Institute. CAR T Cells: Engineering Patients’ Immune Cells to Treat Their Cancers
• American Cancer Society. CAR T-cell Therapy and Its Side Effects

The post What is CAR T-cell Therapy? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Similar Conditions

Psoriasis in people of color shares clinical features with several other skin conditions. Understanding key similarities and differences can promote increased awareness and help to combat misdiagnosis of psoriasis.

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE)

CLE occurs when the autoimmune condition lupus impacts the skin. It presents on the skin in various ways. Associated symptoms include redness, rashes, and lesions. Lesions may appear to be raised or flat, with or without scales, and may be of varying shapes and sizes.

Skin involvement commonly occurs on the face, neck, arms, and other areas that are exposed to sunlight. Sun exposure may worsen the rashes and is a common trigger for CLE flares. It is recommended that individuals with CLE use sun protection measures to minimize the impact.

While psoriasis and CLE share some similarities such as being autoimmune conditions and the presence of skin lesions, they differ in their causes, patterns, and overall presentation.

Hypertrophic lichen planus

The exact cause of lichen planus is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune or inflammatory condition. Hypertrophic lichen planus is a subtype of lichen planus characterized by thickened, raised, and sometimes hyperpigmented or reddish-brown lesions.

Physical presentation includes lesions that are shiny and waxy in appearance. These lesions may develop a fine, lace-like pattern on the surface. Unlike psoriasis, these lesions usually don’t have silvery scales. Skin involvement commonly includes the shins, ankles, wrists, lower back, and mucous membranes of the mouth and other areas of the body. Mucous membrane involvement is not a common feature of psoriasis.

Plaque psoriasis and hypertrophic lichen planus may both produce raised skin lesions, but they differ in their causes and affected areas. Additionally, psoriasis is a long-term condition and symptoms do not go away on their own as they usually do in lichen planus.

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL)

CTCL is a form of cancer, and its cells can spread to other parts of the body, including lymph nodes and internal organs. The exact cause is not well-understood. Patients with severe psoriasis are at greater risk of developing CTCL.

It often presents with skin lesions that may resemble psoriasis. Associated symptoms include red, scaly patches or plaques, itching, and skin thickening. Unlike psoriasis, CTCL lesions may not have the typical silvery scales, and they tend to be more persistent and treatment-resistant. CTCL can grow slowly or aggressively. Early-stage CTCL often has a favorable outlook, while advanced stages can be challenging to treat.

Plaque psoriasis and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma may be similar in how they appear on the skin, but they are very different in terms of their causes and treatment. CTCL often requires a more comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan.

Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disorder that presents with small inflammatory nodules in various organs. The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to involve an abnormal immune response.

In cutaneous sarcoidosis, skin lesions often appear as firm, reddish-brown plaques. They can show up anywhere on the body, including the face, extremities, and midsection. Unlike psoriasis, skin involvement in sarcoidosis typically does not feature the silvery scales seen in psoriasis.

Both conditions can present with skin lesions, but they have different underlying causes and treatment. If you have concerns that you’ve been misdiagnosed with a skin condition, it is important that you discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis learn more about the LATITUDE study.

References

• The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. Special Considerations in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Psoriasis
• JAMA Dermatology Patient Page. Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus
• Journal of Clinical Medicine. Topographic Differential Diagnosis of Chronic Plaque Psoriasis: Challenges and Tricks
• Metabolism Open. Understanding the enigmatic association between mycosis fungoides and psoriasis: Report of two cases and review of the literature
• JAMA Dermatology Case Report/Case Series. Sarcoidosis and Psoriasis
• A Case Series and Review of the Literature Exploring Co-Incidence vs Coincidence

The post Are You Sure It’s Psoriasis? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

CAR T-cell therapy

Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR T-cell) therapy has shown great success in treating some blood cancers. This type of treatment uses a personal approach to target and destroy cancer cells using the immune system.

CAR T-cell therapy uses gene changes to the T-cells to effectively target cancer cells. Over the past several years, CAR T-cell therapies have been FDA approved for the treatment of different blood cancers.

Click here to learn more about CAR T-cell therapy.

Treatment for newly diagnosed disease

Treatment options for blood cancers have evolved in recent years. There are several new treatment options and strategies. The treatment used depends on many factors including age, overall health, genetics, and the cancer characteristics.

When newly diagnosed with cancer, it’s important to work closely with the healthcare team to determine the most appropriate and effective treatment plan. The treatment plan should be based on individual circumstances and the latest treatment advancements. Early diagnosis is key.

Maintenance therapy

After the first round of treatment, maintenance drug therapy is usually next. Maintenance therapy is a type of long-term treatment that is often used in blood cancers. Maintenance therapy can help prolong remission and improve overall patient survival.

The choice of maintenance therapy should be personalized. There should be shared decision-making with the healthcare team.

Looking forward

The recent advancements in the treatment of blood cancers represent progress in managing these complex and challenging types of cancer. The development of targeted therapies and immunotherapies are promising.

Research and clinical trials continue to promote progress. We must continue to raise awareness by collaborating with healthcare providers and researchers in the ongoing fight against blood cancers.

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References

• American Society of Hematology. Blood cancers.
• National Cancer Institute. Multiple Myeloma Awareness and African American Disparities
• International Myeloma Foundation. Disparities in African Americans
• Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Understanding Blood Cancers and Treatment Options.
• Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. The latest myeloma treatment advances from ASCO 2023
• Blood Cancer Journal. Black patients with multiple myeloma have better survival than white patients when treated equally: a matched cohort study
• National Cancer Institute. CAR T Cells: Engineering Patients’ Immune Cells to Treat Their Cancers
• University of Colorado Cancer Center. Blood Cancer.
• American Society of Hematology Education Program. Newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: making sense of the menu

The post Blood Cancers and Recent Advancements in Treatment appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Ideal caregiver criteria includes dependable family or friends over the age of 18 who can commit to the time requirements and are healthy and not exhibiting any signs of infection. An ideal caregiver should also be able to connect with the patient on an emotional level in order to better support them throughout the treatment process.

CAR T-cell therapy can be a life-changing cancer treatment. Your support as a caregiver will significantly impact your loved ones recovery. You should consult with the healthcare team for guidance and recommendations specific to your loved one’s care. Educating yourself about CAR T-cell therapy and What is CAR T-cell is a great place to begin your caregiver journey.

Caregiver Tasks

Being a caregiver encompasses a wide range of tasks and responsibilities. The ultimate goal is to provide care and support during a vulnerable time in your loved one’s health journey. Caregiver tasks can vary, so being flexible is a must. It is also important to be patient, empathetic, and committed to the person you are caring for.

Common caregiver responsibilities include:

• Communicating with the healthcare team
• Advocating for your loved one
• Providing encouragement and emotional support
• Helping with daily tasks such as preparing meals, providing transportation, and helping around the house
• Assisting with managing medications
• Monitoring symptoms and side effects
• Ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration

Caregiver Challenges

Being a caregiver is a rewarding experience, but it does come with its challenges. The demand of being a caregiver while managing your own life can lead to stress and burnout.

You may be challenged emotionally as you walk with your loved one during their treatment. You may be challenged mentally as you may feel isolated. You may be challenged physically as you handle stress and the pressure of day to day responsibilities. As a caregiver, you must proactively seek support to help you navigate this new journey and promote well-being.

Caring for Yourself

You must take care of yourself.

Practical ways to prioritize self care:

• Set boundaries. It’s okay to take breaks and say no.
• Delegate tasks. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from others.
• Develop a self-care routine. Whether it’s a monthly massage or taking a few minutes each day to meditate.
• Prioritize sleep. Lack of sleep can lead to burnout. Aim to get adequate rest each night.
• Consider counseling or therapy. Talking to a professional can help manage stress and anxiety.
• Connect with a support group. Joining a caregiver support group can help you connect with others who are on a similar journey.

Being a caregiver is a role filled with love and sacrifice. As a caregiver it’s important to remember that taking care of yourself is an important part of ensuring you are able to care for others.

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References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Caregiving for Family and Friends – A Public Health Issue
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Caring for Yourself When Caring for Another
• American Association of Retired Persons. Valuing the Invaluable 2023
• American Cancer Society. Caregivers and Family

The post A Caregiver’s Guide to CAR T-Cell Therapy appeared first on Black Health Matters.

CAR T-cell therapy must be completed at specialized treatment centers, and you must meet specific requirements in order to gain access to treatment. African Americans are less likely than other ethnic groups to receive CAR T-cell therapy. If you are considering this therapy option, increasing your knowledge of CAR T-cell therapy can help you navigate the process.

Identifying a Caregiver

If you are preparing to receive CAR T-cell therapy, you may be required to designate a caregiver beforehand. Your caregiver should be someone close to you such as a friend or family member. They should be able to commit to being with you full time during the entire therapy process including your time in the hospital and also after discharge as you recover. You may need more than one caregiver. Caregivers can help with daily tasks, managing your medications, coordinating your health care, and advocating for you.

Selecting the right caregiver for CAR T-cell therapy is a critical decision. Your caregiver’s involvement and support can significantly impact your experience and outcome. Open and honest communication with your caregiver is essential to ensure you both are comfortable throughout the treatment process.

What to Expect

Treatment Process

The process of developing CAR T-cell therapy is complex and precise. Understanding the treatment process can help you feel more engaged in your treatment and help you know what to expect. Click here [link back to BHM What is CAR T-cell therapy?] for an overview of CAR T-cell therapy.

Prior to receiving therapy, you’ll consult with the care team at a treatment facility. This visit will include a health assessment and introduction to the health care team. Once approved to receive treatment, your blood will be drawn in order to collect your T cells and create CAR T-cells. This process can take a few weeks.

While you wait, you’ll receive chemotherapy for a few days. This helps to prepare your body for your CAR T-cell infusion by creating an environment where the cells can grow and expand. You’ll have time to rest after chemotherapy and prior to receiving the CAR T-cell infusion.

On the day of the infusion, you will likely spend more time preparing for the infusion than actually receiving it. The infusion itself is a relatively quick process. After the infusion and for the next several weeks, your care team will continue to follow up with you and monitor closely for side effects. Your caregiver will play a key role in side effect monitoring.

Click here to learn more about how you can prepare to receive CAR T-cell therapy.

Potential Side Effect Challenges

Side effect monitoring is a key aspect of receiving CAR T-cell therapy. Side effects can vary from patient to patient but can be serious or life-threatening. Serious side effects your care team will monitor for include:

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) is one of the most common side effects of therapy and is characterized by symptoms such as fever and chills, trouble breathing, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and decreased appetite.

Neurotoxicity is another serious side effect that impacts the nervous system and causes confusion, mental state changes, and seizures.

Other side effects to monitor for include infusion reactions, increased infection risk, blood count changes, and lab abnormalities.

Learn more about side effects.

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References

• Transplantation and Cellular Therapy. Socioeconomic and Racial Disparity in Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy Access
• Journal of the Advanced Practitioner in Oncology. Educating Multidisciplinary Care Teams, Patients, and Caregivers on CAR T-Cell Therapy
• Quality of life in caregivers of patients receiving chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy
• Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation. Building a CAR Garage: Preparing for the delivery of commercial CAR T products at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
• American Cancer Society. CAR T-cell Therapy and Its Side Effects

The post Preparing for CAR T-cell Therapy: What to Expect appeared first on Black Health Matters.

In addition to understanding your condition, advocating for yourself also involves navigating the healthcare system, seeking support, and educating others. Living with psoriasis can be challenging, but taking control of your health and well being is an empowering journey.

Find the Right Provider

Because psoriasis is a long-term, chronic condition, you should feel comfortable with the healthcare providers who will be helping you manage the condition. Finding the right providers who understand the condition and offer the support and treatment needed is a crucial step in your psoriasis journey.

Dermatologists specialize in skin conditions including psoriasis. Consulting a dermatologist who has extensive experience treating patients with psoriasis can be beneficial. If you are a person of color, it may be beneficial to follow up with a dermatologist who is also a person of color or who specializes in treating skin of color. It is important to ensure that you are comfortable expressing your concerns to your provider. If you are having trouble finding a provider, consider asking family and friends for recommendations. You may also want to consult your primary care provider who can refer you to a dermatologist they trust.

You should feel comfortable communicating your concerns with your health care team. Your provider should be willing to answer your questions, provide clear explanations, and be open to discussing your treatment plan. If you don’t feel that your provider respects your feelings and concerns or if you are having doubts, it’s okay to seek a second opinion.

Advocating for yourself includes feeling confident with the care you are receiving.

Recognize Symptoms

Advocating for yourself when it comes to recognizing and managing the symptoms of psoriasis is a very important part of ensuring you receive the best possible care and improving your quality of life.

Here are some tips on how to advocate for yourself and recognize the symptoms of psoriasis:

• Familiarize yourself with the common symptoms of psoriasis. Common symptoms include: red, scale covered plaques on the skin, itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas, and changes in the appearance of your nails.
• Regularly examine your skin for any new lesions or changes to existing lesions. Pay close attention to your elbows, knees, and scalp as these are commonly affected areas.
• Keep a written record of your symptoms. Documenting when you notice symptoms and any notable triggers can be very useful for not only yourself but your healthcare team.

Make Self-Care a Priority

Research suggests that stress associated with living with psoriasis can lead to anxiety and depression. Your mental health matters and it is important that you make self-care a priority to help minimize stress. You are not on this journey alone and help is available. Consider joining a support group. Having a strong support system can help you learn more about coping with your diagnosis and feel supported on your journey.

You can incorporate self-care into your daily routine by practicing stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing or yoga, being patient with yourself, and advocating for your needs.

Consider a Clinical Trial

Clinical trial participation is another practical way you can advocate for yourself and others living with psoriasis. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with plaque psoriasis learn more about the LATITUDE study.

• Indian Dermatology Online Journal. General measures and quality of life issues in psoriasis
• Psoriasis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take

The Journal of clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. Psoriasis and Associated Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review on Etiopathogenesis and Clinical Correlation.

The post Living with Psoriasis: Advocating for Yourself appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What is breast cancer recurrence?

Breast cancer recurrence occurs when the cancer returns after it was previously treated or undetected. There are 3 main types of breast cancer recurrence. Local recurrence occurs when the cancer comes back in the same breast. Regional recurrence occurs when the cancer comes back in the lymph nodes near the breast. Distant recurrence occurs when the cancer comes back somewhere else in your body. Of all the breast cancer subtypes, female patients with HR+/HER2- breast cancer experience the highest 5-year survival rates at 94.8%. Additional research is needed to fully understand the risk of recurrence in patients with HR+/HER2- breast cancer.

If you have been treated for breast cancer, the thought of cancer recurring can be stressful. Early detection and intervention may improve outcomes in patients who experience recurrence. It is important to maintain routine follow up visits as recommended by your healthcare provider to closely monitor.

Risk of Recurrence in Black Women

Minority women with HR+/HER2- breast cancer, including women of Black, Hispanic, and American Indian descent, experience significantly increased risks of breast cancer recurrence when compared to white women. While HR+/HER2- breast cancer has a more favorable prognosis than other types of breast cancer, it represents the greatest disparities in survival. Other risk factors that have been found to contribute to the risk of recurrence include larger sized tumors and involvement of lymph nodes.

If you or a loved one have early-stage ER+/HER2- breast cancer and have had surgery to treat it, you may be eligible for a clinical trial. Click here to learn more about an ongoing breast cancer clinical trial, determine if you are eligible, and do your part to increase diversity in clinical trials and advance estrogen receptor positive (ER+) and human epidermal receptor 2 negative (HER2-) breast cancer research.

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References

• The Breast. Risk of recurrence among patients with HR-positive, HER2-negative, early breast cancer receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis
• New England Journal of Medicine. 20-Year Risks of Breast-Cancer Recurrence after Stopping Endocrine Therapy at 5 Years
• American Cancer Society: Understanding Recurrence
• National Cancer Institute. Cancer Stat Facts: Female Breast Cancer Subtypes
• The Breast. Population-based recurrence rates among older women with HR-positive, HER2-negative early breast cancer: Clinical risk factors, frailty status, and differences by race

This article is sponsored by Lilly.

The post Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence in Black Women appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Click here to learn more about an ongoing clinical trial, determine if you are eligible, and do your part to advance estrogen receptor positive (ER+) and human epidermal receptor 2 negative (HER2-) breast cancer research.

Hormones and Receptors

Hormones and receptors play an important role in adjuvant endocrine therapy. The majority of breast cancer diagnoses are either estrogen or progesterone receptor positive. These two hormones are the key components of cancer formation and you will likely hear these terms used frequently.

Estrogen and progesterone receptors are found on the surface of breast cancer cells. When hormones attach to the receptors, cancer cells can grow and divide. Breast cancers that have a high number of estrogen receptors are labeled as estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive), and cancers with a high number of progesterone receptors are called progesterone receptor-positive (PR-positive). At least 65% of all breast cancers are specifically classified as ER+/HER2-.

The link between hormones and adjuvant endocrine therapy is fundamental to understanding how this treatment approach works in breast cancer treatment.

What is adjuvant therapy?

Adjuvant therapy is additional treatment that is given after your initial or primary therapy such as surgery. There are several different types of adjuvant therapies, and they are commonly used when treating breast cancer. Some examples include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and hormone (or endocrine) therapy. The main goal of adjuvant therapy is to increase the effectiveness of the primary therapy and reduce the risk of the cancer returning by targeting any remaining cancer cells that were not destroyed by the primary treatment.

What is adjuvant endocrine therapy?

Adjuvant endocrine therapy is often referred to as hormone therapy. Hormone therapy for breast cancer is different from hormone therapy used to treat menopausal symptoms. Endocrine therapy for breast cancer is used in patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. It works by targeting hormones in the body, lowering estrogen levels, and stopping cancer growth. It is not effective against hormone receptor-negative cancers. Adjuvant hormone therapy for breast cancer may look different depending on the type of cancer you have.

In women with ER+/HER2- breast cancer, adjuvant endocrine therapy is a key aspect of treatment. Adjuvant endocrine therapy can be given for many years after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer coming back. Research suggests that when adjuvant hormone therapy is initiated after surgery, there is a lower risk of cancer coming back, or new cancer developing somewhere else in the body.

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, it is important that you work closely with your healthcare team to determine the most appropriate therapy and treatment plan.

Impact in Black Women

Disparities in breast cancer outcomes exist among different racial and ethnic groups. Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death among Black women. While breast cancer rates are higher in White women, survival rates are lower in Black women. Black women are more likely to delay breast cancer treatment including adjuvant endocrine therapy which may play a role in these rates. You can eliminate disparities in breast cancer treatment by communicating your concerns with your healthcare provider and considering clinical trial participation.

If you have been diagnosed with early-stage ER+/HER2- breast cancer and have already had surgery to treat the breast cancer, click here to learn more about whether a clinical trial for endocrine therapy may be an option for you.

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References

• American Cancer Society Journals. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. Cancer statistics, 2023.
• American Cancer Society. Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer
• Endocrine therapy for breast cancer in the primary care setting. Curr Oncol. 2018 Aug; 25(4): 285–291.Published online 2018 Aug 14.
• American Cancer Society. Breast Cancer Hormone Receptor Status
• National Cancer Institute. Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer
• American Cancer Society Journals. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. Systemic therapy for hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative early stage and metastatic breast cancer
• Racial disparities in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment by hormone receptor and HER2 status. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev.

This article is sponsored by Lilly.

The post Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy for Breast Cancer: What You Need to Know appeared first on Black Health Matters.

While lupus can affect individuals of all ages and ethnic backgrounds, minority groups including Blacks are impacted the most, and women are affected more than men.² Black women are most impacted by this condition.³ Up to 60% of lupus patients will develop lupus nephritis.^1,5

What is Lupus Nephritis?

Definition

Lupus nephritis is a type of kidney disease caused by lupus. It is a common but serious lupus-related health complication, meaning only patients with lupus can develop lupus nephritis. It is caused by the body mistakenly attacking the kidneys, leading to swelling and scarring of the blood vessels that are responsible for filtering kidney waste.⁴ Men are more likely to develop lupus nephritis than women. Blacks, much like Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Hispanics, remain at high risk for developing lupus nephritis.⁶

Lupus nephritis, if left untreated, may result in impaired kidney function or kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant. It is also a risk factor for developing end stage renal disease. Severe forms of lupus nephritis may cause permanent kidney scarring. Patients with lupus nephritis are at a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer and heart problems.¹ There is no cure for this disease, but treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent disease progression.

Signs and Symptoms of Lupus Nephritis

Signs and symptoms of lupus nephritis may vary. Symptoms may not be noticeable at onset of the disease, and it may take up to 5 years after lupus symptoms appear to recognize symptoms of lupus nephritis.⁵ Potential symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to confirm or rule out a diagnosis of lupus nephritis. The most common symptoms include^1,4-6:

• Weight gain
• Swelling (usually in the legs, feet, or ankles)
• Urine changes
  • Frequent urination
  • Blood or protein in urine (may only be visible under a microscope)
• High levels of waste (creatinine) in your blood
• High blood pressure

Lupus Nephritis in Blacks

Why are lupus and lupus nephritis more common in Blacks? We don’t know. Some experts believe it may be related to genetics, however there may also be hormonal and environmental causes.^3,6 Additional research is needed to help better understand and evaluate this condition.

Importance of Clinical Trial Participation

A surprising 63% of Americans surveyed had limited knowledge of lupus and its symptoms or had never heard of the condition. This proves there is still much work to be done in raising awareness and knowledge surrounding lupus and its complications.²

Clinical trials allow researchers to contribute to improving quality of care and identifying and exploring better treatment options. Clinical trials for lupus have not had much success recruiting minority patients to participate. Unfortunately, Black patients are underrepresented in clinical trials due to a number of barriers such as limited knowledge of clinical trials and when they occur, feelings of anxiety and lack of trust surrounding clinical trial participation, and limited education about the disease.⁷

Blacks make up around 12% of the United States population but are only represented in clinical trials at a low rate of 5%.⁷ In order to gain more insight and reduce health disparities, it is important to increase participation of Black patients in lupus-related clinical trials. If you have been diagnosed with lupus nephritis (LN), you may be able to participate in an important new study and potentially avoid further damage to your kidneys. Learn more here.

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References:

1. NIH – Lupus and Kidney Disease (Lupus Nephritis)
2. Lupus Foundation of America – Lupus Facts and Statistics
3. CDC – Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
4. National Kidney Foundation – Lupus and Kidney Disease (Lupus Nephritis)
5. Lupus Foundation of America – What is Lupus Nephritis?
6. American Kidney Fund – Lupus Nephritis: Symptoms, treatment, and complications
7. NIH – The State of Lupus Clinical Trials: Minority Participation Needed
8. National Kidney Foundation – Are Clinical Trials Safe?

The post What is Lupus Nephritis and Why Is It More Common in Blacks? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that develops in bone marrow and can prevent the immune system from working properly. Left unchecked, myeloma cells can continue to multiply and spread, causing problems in other parts of the body. Although multiple myeloma is considered a rare cancer, it is the most common form of blood cancer among African Americans. In fact, African Americans are more than twice as likely to be diagnosed with multiple myeloma compared to White Americans and are usually diagnosed at a younger age.

Evelyn, who had battled breast cancer years earlier, recalls the shock of this news, “The first few months it felt like a rollercoaster because you don’t want to believe that you have this disease.”

Through her treatment journey, she learned a lot about her condition, recognized the profound impact of a support system and became aware of the lack of representation among African Americans living with multiple myeloma. Determined to ensure that others wouldn’t have to feel alone in their own battle, she became an inspirational mentor, offering valuable insights and a comforting presence to fellow patients. With the wisdom gained through her journey, Evelyn has a wealth of advice to share, encouraging others to advocate for themselves and to never lose hope in their pursuit of a brighter tomorrow.

“Do your research.”

Evelyn knew she needed to get educated about this disease and understand her treatment options, but the heavy emotional burden made it difficult to absorb new information and ask the right questions.

Her oncologist urged her not to rely on basic internet searches for answers, which can often yield outdated information, but to seek reputable organizations, like the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to learn more about what multiple myeloma is and how it affects African Americans specifically. These credible sources kept her informed about treatment options, clinical trials and ways to manage the challenges associated with the disease.

One in five people living with multiple myeloma are African American, yet representation among patient advocates is limited. Evelyn recalls a conversation with an MMRF nurse who said, “A lot of times we get African American patients that call and say they want to speak to someone who looks like them, but we don’t have anyone.” It emphasized the need for better representation and support within the healthcare system, inspiring Evelyn to be that support for others living with multiple myeloma.

She recalls the first patient she mentored with fondness. “I remember pulling over and sitting in the parking lot talking for about two hours. He was crying and just trying to wrap his head around the diagnosis.” Since she had been in that position before, she began to share her experience. He saw that it wasn’t an immediate death sentence for him, but that most cases are treatable,” said Evelyn.

Their connection remains unshaken to this day, a living testament to the power of empathy and shared experiences. “He has a new outlook on life now,” she says.

“Get a second opinion.”

Her most important piece of advice to those who have just received a diagnosis is to get a second opinion from a multiple myeloma specialist. She learned that from her own oncologist who referred her to a multiple myeloma specialist. He felt her myeloma wasn’t responding as well as it could, knowing the treatment options he could offer at this stage were limited. But this doesn’t mean giving up an oncologist you’re comfortable with.

What worked for Evelyn was adding the specialist to her existing care team, expanding the treatment approaches to consider. This way, she didn’t have to cycle through treatments to find one that worked. She collaborated with her care team and they made those decisions together.

“Advocate for yourself.”

Evelyn’s experience taught her that navigating this complex disease required not only resilience but advocacy. She comes prepared with questions for her specialists, goes in for regular screenings and is keenly aware of how her body is responding to therapy. As a mentor, she empowers other patients to understand their disease and seek answers that help them feel in control of their care.

Clinical trials have played a major role in advancing treatments for multiple myeloma and other conditions, but African Americans are generally underrepresented, making it difficult to understand how treatments impact the community. As a clinical trial participant, Evelyn has encouraged others to strongly consider that option if their treatment regimen is ineffective, they are eligible and the opportunity arises. “People respond differently [to treatments]; it’s not one-size-fits-all for multiple myeloma.”

Evidence shows that African American patients who receive treatment for multiple myeloma can do just as well as, and sometimes better than, White Americans. Yet, research has shown that African Americans have benefited less from recent medical advancements that have led to improvements in survival in more recent years. As of 2022, only 4% of patients in multiple myeloma clinical trials were African American despite making up 20% of people living with multiple myeloma today. Begging Evelyn’s point, “If we don’t participate in the trial, what do we have to say?”

*         *         *         *

Evelyn’s journey has been deeply influenced by the unwavering support of her faith, family, and friends. Her faith provided her with strength, guiding her through the challenges with unwavering hope. Her family and friends, a pillar of support, offered encouragement, love, and a sense of belonging during the toughest moments.

Evelyn admits, “You have days where you give yourself a pity party. But give yourself 48 hours and then you have to get up and let it go.” When times are uncertain, Evelyn offers perspective she can stand by, “I think that with all experiences there’s something good that comes out of it.”

For more information about multiple myeloma and resources to help navigate your care in your discussions with your healthcare provider, visit MyelomaCentral.com.

The post What One Warrior Wants You to Know About Multiple Myeloma appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Impact of Food Deserts

As a community, chronic diseases hit us the hardest. Research shows that several chronic conditions, including obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, disproportionately impact African Americans. We already know structural racism and racial bias are reasons why these health disparities exist. In addition, socio-economic factors that affect many Black Americans, such as lack of quality insurance and safe spaces to exercise, cannot be overlooked.

But we must remember how living in food deserts impacts our health. According to a report by McKinsey, one out of 5 Black households is in a food desert, with fewer grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and restaurants offering healthy options. For some of us, convenience stores and fast-food restaurants are the closest options. Yet, we are still expected to spend nearly $340 billion on food by 2030.

Black consumers want offerings that are culturally relevant and convenient, facilitate healthy habits, demonstrate good value for the price, and allow them to experience new foods.

Despite these challenges, it is possible to live a healthy lifestyle and break free from these race-related stigmas. An excellent place to start is knowing about the healthy numbers we need to work towards, whether we are striving to prevent a chronic disease or manage one.

High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia)

High blood sugar occurs when too much glucose, or sugar, is in the blood. If left untreated, high blood sugar can lead to type 2 diabetes over time. It can also lead to severe complications, including eye, kidney, and nerve damage. African Americans are at higher risk for developing high blood sugar.

Symptoms may not always be present when blood sugar is high. Some signs of high blood sugar include frequent urination and increased thirst. You may experience tiredness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain in severe cases. If you have concerns about your blood sugar, your provider can check your levels by conducting a simple blood test.

There is a common misconception that eating too much sugar causes diabetes.

While consuming sugary foods and drinks is unhealthy and can play a role, there are other contributing factors. The biggest problem with a poor diet is that it contributes to weight gain. Excess weight contributes to high blood sugar. Losing weight helps the body maintain healthy blood sugar levels and lowers the risk of complications.

However, our blood sugar goals may vary based on specific factors. The American Diabetes Association recommends that patients with diabetes aim for an A1c goal of < 7%. Blood sugars should stay between 80 and 130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL 1 to 2 hours after eating.

If you do not have diabetes, you should aim for an A1c of < 5.7%, and fasting blood sugars should be around 100 mg/dL.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High blood pressure occurs when the force of blood in your blood vessels is too high. This often results in your heart working much harder to do its job. If left untreated, high blood pressure can cause damage to your arteries. It can also lead to other conditions such as heart disease, stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, and sexual dysfunction.

High blood pressure is commonly referred to as a ‘silent killer’ because you may feel perfectly fine and not have any symptoms. When symptoms are present, they may include headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, and vision changes.

The best way to prevent long-term damage is to know your numbers. If you don’t have a blood pressure monitor, consider investing in one. Or ask a friend or family member to use theirs. Most pharmacies offer free blood pressure checks, and you can usually stop by your provider’s office to have your blood pressure checked without an appointment, but be sure to call ahead to confirm.

A blood pressure of 120/80 or lower is considered normal. If you have been diagnosed with hypertension, aim for a blood pressure goal of less than 130/80.

How Weight Factors In

There is a connection between being overweight and being diagnosed with hyperglycemia and hypertension. However, embarking on lifestyle changes that result in 5-10% weight loss may set us on the path to being healthier.

Dr. Holly Lofton, Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery and Medicine at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, states that losing weight can also improve conditions such as prediabetes, high cholesterol, acid reflux, specific liver disease, and osteoarthritis.

“Even a 5% weight loss can be significant,” states Dr. Lofton, “However, there are specific weight loss goals depending on the condition.”

• 5-10% weight loss is recommended to prevent prediabetes from becoming diabetes
• 5-15% weight loss is recommended to reduce the severity of diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure
• At least a 10% weight loss is associated with reduced acid reflux symptoms
• 5-10% weight loss is recommended to improve physical function with osteoarthritis
• 7-10% weight loss is recommended to improve the fatty tissue present in liver cells of patients with liver disease, which is a risk factor for heart disease and many types of cancer

“I encourage anyone who feels that losing weight is intimidating to talk to your doctor,” says Dr. Lofton. She emphasizes that having percentage goals such as the ones listed above and aiming for smaller weight loss goals is attainable by making small changes that can lead to improved health.

Supported by an educational grant from Novo Nordisk Inc. 

The post How Do Health Numbers Connect to Weight and Overall Health? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

There is some debate within our community about whether BMI is an appropriate assessment tool, especially for Black patients. One reason is it does not factor in individual body type or whether or not there is extra fat or muscle. It also doesn’t consider other important factors such as age, race, or gender. But the controversy surrounding BMI aside, obesity is a chronic condition many of us are living with.

The U.S. Department of Health Office of Minority Health reports that African-American women have the highest rate of obesity, with 4 out of 5 of us considered overweight or obese.

Sometimes, even when we try dieting and exercising, this condition does not go away quickly. To better understand this concept, consider two siblings who grew up in the same environment. One eats sweets and junk food but can’t seem to gain weight, and the other is physically active and plays sports but can’t seem to lose weight. By societal standards, this shouldn’t be the case. But while environmental and genetic factors contribute to obesity, they don’t explain the entire story.

What Do Hormones Have to Do With It?

The fight is only sometimes against food. Hormones can strongly impact our ability to lose weight and maintain weight loss. Our brain regulates hunger by encouraging us to eat to store energy (which is why we feel hungry) and to feel full (so our bodies can burn energy). There are also some specific hormones related to other health conditions that can contribute to weight gain.

Dr. Holly Lofton, Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery and Medicine at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, breaks down these specific hormones and how they may contribute to weight gain.

Thyroid Hormone

Hypothyroidism is an underlying condition that contributes to weight gain. This does not mean that someone with hypothyroidism can’t lose weight, but getting your thyroid levels treated with medication can treat the problem and no longer contribute to obesity. For any period you are not treated and thyroid levels are not regulated, you may be prone to weight gain.

Insulin

Insulin is a naturally occurring hormone produced by our bodies, and it can also be introduced to our bodies when taken as a medication. When our body produces too much insulin, insulin resistance can occur. Insulin resistance happens before prediabetes is recognized. The presence of excess insulin in the body can result in weight gain.

Cortisol

A small organ above the kidneys produces cortisol called the adrenal gland. It sounds similar to cortisone, which is a steroid. When someone has extra cortisol or takes steroids (cortisone or prednisone) for a medical condition, the size of the fat cells may increase and cause weight gain.

Estrogens

Estrogens are female hormones. Levels can fluctuate throughout different phases of life.

During menopause, estrogen levels can decrease and cause weight gain due to increased fat storage.

Some hormonal birth control methods can also lead to weight gain due to a change in the levels of female hormones in the body.

“Correcting the underlying issue may or may not result in weight loss,” Dr. Lofton says, “but it can be a good starting point and can help determine if medications may be needed, as they often are, to make fat cells smaller.”

Dr. Lofton recommends speaking with your provider or a hormone specialist about additional testing and further workup to rule out these conditions.

Make a Plan

Because obesity is a chronic condition, it should be treated as such. We wouldn’t tell someone with cancer or high blood pressure to wait it out before they seek treatment. Obesity is no different. If you think hormones may be a contributing factor for you, take these practical steps:

1. Collaborate with your healthcare team to develop a plan to manage obesity as a health condition.

2. Inquire whether blood tests to check your thyroid, insulin, cortisol, and estrogen levels may be appropriate.

3. Talk to your provider about all the weight management options available.

Supported by an educational grant from Novo Nordisk Inc. 

The post How Hormones May Impact Your Weight appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an autoimmune condition and a common complication of psoriasis.^2,3 It occurs in 10-20% of people with psoriasis, but you may develop PsA without noticing or being diagnosed with psoriasis.^4,5 While PsA is less common in Black Americans than whites, it may be more difficult to identify skin symptoms in Black patients.² Symptoms may also be more severe.² PsA has similar symptoms as other types of arthritis such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.⁴ Complete this screening tool to help assess if you may have PsA.

Identifying Psoriatic Arthritis

PsA may be caused by environmental or genetic factors. Other risk factors include family history, age (30-50 years old), obesity, and smoking.⁶ The time of onset and severity of PsA symptoms may vary.⁵ Common areas of involvement include the joints, spine, and areas where a tendon or ligament attaches to a bone.⁶

Common symptoms of PsA include

• Morning stiffness
• Tiredness
• Skin rash that may appear anywhere on your body and may appear to be a purplish-brown color on darker skin complexions
• Changes to the color, thickness, or texture of your fingernails
• Painful swelling in your finger and toes that may resemble sausages
• Stiff and painful joints that may be red, hot, and swollen
• Pain, redness, and inflammation in your eyes
• Pain and tenderness at the back of the heel and sole of the foot

It is important to see a specialist if you suspect you may have PsA or if you are experiencing symptoms.

Communicating Your Concerns

You may feel anxious about speaking with your healthcare provider about your concerns, but know that you are making the best decision for your health. You should be prepared to discuss your symptoms and go into detail about what you are feeling and where.⁵ You may find it helpful to use a diary or journal to keep track of your symptoms and share with your provider. Advocate for yourself and ask questions. If you’re feeling uneasy, ask more questions. Your provider can help you better understand more about the disease, your treatment options, who you should follow up with for your care, and how to cope. There are also online resources such as the Patient Navigation Center that you can take advantage of.

Diversity in Psoriatic Arthritis Research

Diversity in clinical trials is important to help us understand how different groups may respond differently to treatment.^3,7 Unfortunately, there is a lack of representation and PsA clinical trial participation among Black Americans.⁷ More research is needed to determine if and how PsA disproportionately impacts patients of different races.⁸ When you participate in a clinical trial, you are taking a bold step towards progress. Participating in a clinical trial can help you learn more about your condition while receiving expert care. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with PsA and have not been treated with any medications recently, you may be eligible to participate in a clinical trial. If you are interested in learning more about if you may be eligible for PsA clinical trial participation, visit BMS Study Connect.

Funded by Bristol Myers Squibb.

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References:

1. National Psoriasis Foundation. About Psoriasis
2. Arthritis Foundation. Arthritis in the Black Community
3. BIPOC Patient Voices: Living with Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
4. CDC. What is Psoriasis?
5. National Psoriasis Foundation. About Psoriatic Arthritis
6. Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis: What’s the Connection?
7. Lack of Diversity in Clinical Trials of Psoriatic Arthritis
8. Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Psoriatic Diseases

The post Psoriatic Arthritis: What You Need to Know appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin diseases. Research has shown that the risk for atopic dermatitis may be higher among individuals with skin of color. The reasons for this are still unknown but are believed to involve genetics, ancestry, social and environmental factors. This will likely be the subject of further study for a long time. For now, it is important to understand that atopic dermatitis may look and feel different in diverse individuals. This can sometimes make it difficult for doctors to diagnose, and people may not fully appreciate the impact of this disease on people with skin of color.

The DISCOVER clinical research study is looking at how an approved medication may work for people with skin of color who suffer from eczema. If you or someone you know has eczema (atopic dermatitis) that isn’t well treated by creams and is aged 12 years or older, click here to learn more about the study and see if you may be eligible to participate. 

References:

1. Eichenfield LF, Tom WL, Chamlin SL, Feldman SR, Hanifin JM, Simpson EL, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis: section 1. Diagnosis and assessment of atopic dermatitis. J Am Acad Dermatol 2014; 70(2):338-51. 
2. Eckert L et al. Impact of atopic dermatitis on health-related quality of life and productivity in adults in the United States: An analysis using the National Health and Wellness Survey. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017 Aug;77(2):274-279.e3. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.04.019. Epub 2017 Jun 9. PMID: 28606711. 
3. Weidinger S, Novak N. Atopic dermatitis. Lancet. 2016 Mar 12:387(10023):1109-1122. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(15)00149-X. Epub 2015 Sep 13. PMID: 26377142. 
4. Brunner PM, Guttman-Yassky E. Racial differences in atopic dermatitis. Ann Allergy, Asthma Immunol. 2019;122(5):449-455. doi:10.1016/j.anai.2018.11.015 
5. Nomura T, Wu J, Kabashima K, Guttman-Yassky E. Endophenotypic Variations of Atopic Dermatitis by Age, Race, and Ethnicity. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2020;8(6):1840-1852. 

The post Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) in the Black Community appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Early detection and diagnosis are essential. Raising lupus awareness, especially in Black communities, can help increase knowledge, reduce anxiety, and empower others to know and recognize the signs.

There are a variety of symptoms you may experience if you have lupus.² Symptoms may come and go at different intervals, and the severity of symptoms may vary from person to person.³ Symptoms may also change over time. Common signs and symptoms of lupus include:

• Feeling tired frequently
• Joint pain or swelling
• Light sensitivity
• Skin rashes
• Fevers
• Mouth or nose ulcers
• Hair loss
• Chest pain

Lupus signs and symptoms often overlap with other medical conditions. It can be challenging to recognize whether you have lupus based on symptoms alone.³ Don’t wait. Be proactive and speak with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing symptoms. Additional evaluation and testing may be needed.

Living With Lupus

Living with lupus can be challenging for anyone diagnosed whether it has been a few months or several years. A group of lupus patients surveyed reported that the most difficult parts of coping with their diagnosis were chronic pain, lifestyle changes, and emotional issues.¹

Manage Lupus-Related Pain

You can take practical steps to help manage your lupus-related pain. Applying heat to painful areas can be soothing. Take a hot shower or bath, use a heated towel
or warm compress, or apply a heating pad to areas where you are experiencing pain.
You may also find relief in being more physically active. You must listen to
your body and avoid overexerting yourself which can worsen pain. Taking a brisk
walk or swimming in the pool are examples of ways you can get your body moving.

Because several factors can impact your pain, it is also important that you communicate your concerns to your healthcare team and work together to develop a safe and effective plan.⁴

Adapt Your Lifestyle

Making lifestyle changes can be difficult, but doing so can help you cope with your diagnosis and feel better overall.

If you are living with lupus and hoping to make lifestyle changes that may improve your health and quality of life, you should:

• Eat a healthy diet
• Exercise if approved by your provider
• Stay well-rested
• Avoid overexposure to the sun
• Find a community of others living with lupus
• Keep your family and loved ones informed on how they can support you
• Be positive

Prioritize Self-Care

Your mental health and well-being are important. Try to keep your stress levels low by making time for things you enjoyed doing even before your diagnosis as long as it is safe. Some activities that can help promote relaxation and self-care are practicing meditation, deep breathing exercises, and reading. Consider seeking counseling or joining a support group if you are having trouble coping.

Take Action

You can advocate for yourself and others living with lupus by participating in a clinical trial. If you are living with lupus and taking medication for it, you may be eligible to participate in the TOPAZ Studies. Clinical trials allow participants to receive expert care, regular monitoring, and access to investigational medication at no cost. Click here to learn more and determine if you may be eligible.

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References

1. Lupus Foundation of America. Lupus facts and statistics
2. CDC. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
3. Lupus Foundation of America. Lupus Symptoms
4. Lupus Foundation of America. Strategies for managing pain
5. NIH. Lupus Basics: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take
6. CDC. Lupus Awareness
7. Lupus Foundation of America. Quick Guide: African Americans and Lupus

The post Know the Signs: Raising Lupus Awareness appeared first on Black Health Matters.

CKD impacts over 37 million U.S. adults, but African Americans, Hispanics, American Indians, and Alaska Natives are at higher risk and more likely to develop the condition. This is likely due to higher rates of some chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure that exist in these communities. Additional research is needed to better understand the exact cause of these disparities.

Your heart and kidneys may appear far apart but are intricately linked through your blood vessels. Any condition that affects one of them can affect the other too. There is a direct link between heart disease and kidney disease; having one greatly increases your risk of having the other. Understanding the relationship between these two conditions is essential to managing them.

The Link Between CKD and Heart Disease

Chronic kidney disease can cause or worsen heart disease. Both conditions share similar risk factors, including age, excess weight, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Heart disease includes several heart conditions, with coronary artery disease being the most common. Other conditions include heart attack, arrhythmias, and heart failure.

Ways to Lower Your Risk

Your care team can help you manage kidney disease effectively to minimize complications, slow down disease progression, and reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Here are practical steps you can take to lower your risk:

• Follow up with your healthcare provider regularly. Regular medical checkups promote early detection of kidney and heart disease. Your provider may monitor your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.
• Maintain a healthy weight. Maintaining a healthy weight helps lower your risk of other health conditions.
• Adopt a healthy diet. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and fiber helps keep your protein and potassium levels stable and your kidneys working well. You should work closely with your healthcare team to assist you with planning healthy meals.
• Exercise regularly. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise per day such as going for a brisk walk around your neighborhood.

Why You Should Consider a Clinical Trial

The progression of kidney disease can lead to kidney failure. More than 30% of people with kidney failure are Black. Alarmingly, less than 10% of participants in clinical research represent the Black community. Historically, clinical trials do not appropriately represent the minority populations who are most at risk of being negatively impacted. The bottom line: clinical trials need diverse participants.

Clinical trial diversity is important to help researchers better understand how different groups may react or respond to treatment. You can make a difference. Participating in a clinical research study allows you to be actively involved in your healthcare, have access to investigational medication, and help others by progressing medical research. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are interested in clinical research to determine if it is a good option for you.

There is an ongoing study testing whether an investigational medication can reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and death from cardiovascular causes. Click here to learn more.

This article is sponsored by Novo Nordisk.

References

1. Cardiovascular Disease in Chronic Kidney Disease | Circulation
2. What Is Chronic Kidney Disease? – NIDDK.
3. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology
4. Chronic Kidney Disease and Cardiovascular Disease: Is there Any Relationship? – PMC
5. The Surprising Link Between Chronic Kidney Disease, Diabetes, and Heart Disease.
6. Coronary Artery Disease – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
7. Heart Disease & Kidney Disease – NIDDK
8. Diversity in Clinical Trials – American Kidney Fund

The post Kidney Disease and the Heart: Importance of African American Participation in Clinical Trials appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or infection. Most times, it’s a temporary state that helps your body’s defenses tackle the root cause and initiate the healing process. It’s often a short-lived or acute inflammation that subsides once the threat is gone.

Several causes of low-grade chronic inflammation include physical inactivity, obesity, diet, stress, and exposure to environmental toxins and tobacco smoke.

Chronic inflammation affects many conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, cancers, autoimmune conditions, and neurodegenerative disorders. It also impacts your mental health. Research suggests it contributes to mood disorders, cognitive decline, and a diminished quality of life. When it comes to inflammation, there is also evidence that Black patients typically experience inflammation at higher levels than White patients which may explain the overall poorer health of African Americans.

Your healthcare provider may order a lab test to check your high sensitivity c-reactive protein (hsCRP) level which can aid in detecting chronic inflammation. Measuring CRP levels may also be helpful in assessing cardiovascular risk.

Inflammation and Heart Disease

Chronic inflammation is persistent and can last for weeks to months and years. Inflammation can cause damage to the blood vessels which can increase your risk of heart disease. Inflammation plays an important role in the development and progression of build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries, known as atherosclerosis.  Atherosclerosis is also an underlying cause of heart disease. It is a common occurrence in patients who have had a stroke or who are living with heart disease, but it can be prevented.

Cholesterol-lowering medications called statins appear to reduce inflammation in arteries and have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with inflammation.

How to manage chronic inflammation

Managing chronic inflammation depends on the cause. Your care team will work with you to determine the best way to prevent or treat the condition. Some helpful tips to promote an anti-inflammatory lifestyle include:

• Eat a diet rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber
• Make time to exercise regularly
• Manage stress: deep breathing, grounding exercises, and meditation may help
• Improve your sleep aiming for about 8 hours a day
• Maintain a healthy weight: too much or too little for your height and age could make you more vulnerable to chronic inflammation
• Ask your doctor if supplements with anti-inflammatory properties, such as curcumin, green tea, fish oil, and vitamin C might help you

What else can you do?

Clinical trials may be a way to learn more about inflammation and treatment. There is a clinical study underway for patients with inflammation. Ask your doctor if a clinical trial is right for you. Click here if you would like to learn more about inflammation when it co-exists with heart disease and kidney disease, and if you may be eligible to participate in this trial.

This article is sponsored by Novo Nordisk.

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References

1. Inflammation and Mental Health Symptoms – Psychology Today
2. Chronic inflammation in the etiology of disease across the life span – PMC
3. How much physical activity do adults need? | CDC
4. Simons, R.L. (2021) Racial Discrimination, Inflammation, and Chronic Illness among African American Women at Midlife: Support for the Weathering Perspective
5. Inflammation and Heart Disease | AHA
6. Ridker, P.M. (2008) Rosuvastatin to Prevent Vascular Events in Men and Women with Elevated C-Reactive Protein
7. Chronic Inflammation. StatPearls | NIH

The post Understanding Chronic Inflammation and its Role in Your Health and Well-being appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Additionally, lupus disproportionately impacts minorities in the United States.⁴ African Americans are three times more likely to have lupus and nine times more likely to experience kidney failure as a result of lupus when compared to their white counterparts.^4,5 Not only is lupus more common, but it is also more severe in African Americans.⁵ Black patients are also more likely to develop lupus at a younger age and have worse outcomes long term.^5,6

In addition to the health implications, there is also an impact on social andeconomic factors.⁴ An example of this is that African Americans with lupus are twice as likely to lose their job after being diagnosed which may lead to unemployment or underemployment. Black patients must also deal with increased mistrust of the healthcare system which can lead to a delay in treatment and lack of involvement in the decision-making process.

Clinical Trial Participation

Why is lupus more common among Black women? The answer is unclear. Researchers believe there could be a genetic link.⁵ There are also hormonal and environmental factors that contribute.⁵ Participating in a clinical trial is a way you can contribute to helping scientists better understand the condition and develop drugs that could help. Unfortunately, Black patients are underrepresented in clinical trials, and low minority participation does not accurately represent the United States population.⁶ Black patients make up 43% of lupus cases but only 14% of clinical trial participants.⁶

There are several factors that may contribute to low minority participation in clinical trials. Research shows that common patient-related barriers to clinical trial participation include:

• Lack of access
  • To specialists with knowledge of lupus clinical trials
  • To resources needed for trial participation such as transportation, child care, health insurance, and time off from work
    • Many patients are unaware that clinical trials offer care at no cost

• Lack of opportunity
  • To learn about clinical trials
  • To connect with minority providers who may refer patients to clinical trials

• Lack of trust
  • Among African American communities due to a history of racial bias within the medical system
  • Towards being the subject of an “experiment”

• Low health literacy

Researchers may struggle to learn more about how or why lupus disproportionately impacts the Black community or develop more effective therapies without more diverse clinical trial participation. While barriers will always exist, acknowledging
them can help you overcome them.

Make a Difference

Minority participation in clinical trials is vital to ensuring Black patients are
adequately represented and working towards eliminating the disparities that
exist.

The TOPAZ studies are evaluating an investigational lupus drug. If you or someone you know has been living with lupus for at least 6 months and are currently taking lupus medication, click here to learn more about eligibility. If you are eligible and participate in the study, you will be regularly monitored and receive the investigational drug at no charge.

References

1. CDC. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
2. CDC. Lupus Awareness
3. Lupus Foundation of America. Lupus facts and statistics
4. Lupus Foundation of America. Health disparities in lupus
5. Lupus Foundation of America. Quick Guide: African Americans and Lupus
6. Sheikh SZ, Wanty NI, Stephens J, Holtz KD, McCalla S. The State of Lupus Clinical Trials: Minority Participation Needed. J Clin Med. 2019;8(8):1245.
   Published 2019 Aug 17. doi:10.3390/jcm8081245

The post Lupus In The Black Community appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Dr. Brown currently serves as a medical officer at Carswell Federal Medical Center with the Bureau of Prisons which is the only federal medical facility devoted to women’s medical care. Ms. Harris and Ms. Goodwin are both endometrial cancer survivors and advocates.

Black Health Matters: For those who may not know, which types of cancer would be considered gynecologic cancers?

Dr. Robinson-Brown: Gynecologic cancers include ovarian cancer, uterine/endometrial cancer, cervical cancer, vulvar cancer, and vaginal cancer.

Black Health Matters: How common is endometrial cancer and who is at a higher risk of being diagnosed?

Dr. Robinson-Brown: Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in developed countries. It is the 6th most common in women worldwide and the 4th most common in the United States. The average age of diagnosis is 62, and 90% of cases occur after age 50. This type of cancer occurs less frequently in women who have not yet gone through menopause.

Those living with obesity, diabetes, or Lynch Syndrome are at an increased risk. Lynch syndrome is a genetic syndrome that comes with a high risk of developing endometrial, colorectal, ovarian, and urinary tract cancers.  The lifetime risk of endometrial cancer is 40-60%.

If you had your first menstrual cycle before age 10, have not given birth to any children, or experience menopause after the age of 55, you are also at an increased risk. Tamoxifen use is another risk factor.

Black Health Matters: Are there any ways to prevent endometrial cancer from occurring?

Dr. Robinson-Brown: There are some factors that have been shown to be protective against endometrial cancer. They include hysterectomy, use of combined oral contraceptive pills, progestin-based contraceptives or intrauterine devices, pregnancy, smoking (however, you should not start smoking as a means of prevention), exercise, and breastfeeding.

There is no effective screening protocol for endometrial cancer and no noninvasive test with good sensitivity. Controlling weight, blood pressure, and diabetes helps reduce risk. Restrict the use of estrogen after menopause if the uterus is still intact and report any abnormal bleeding to your gynecologist.

Black Health Matters: How is the cancer diagnosed?

Dr. Robinson-Brown: The most common presentation is abnormal uterine bleeding which occurs in about 90% of cases. Advanced disease may present with abdominal pain and distension. Less than 5% of cases do not have any symptoms.

A Pap smear and transvaginal ultrasound will likely show some abnormalities. However, an endometrial biopsy with hysteroscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis. Other exams, such as a pelvic exam, are usually normal unless there is advanced disease.

Black Health Matters: How is the cancer staged and what are the survival rates?

Dr. Robinson-Brown: Uterine cancers are staged clinically by a CT or MRI. In Stage 1, cancer cells are only found in the uterus. In Stage 2, the cancer has spread to the opening of the uterus, known as the cervix. In Stage 3, the cancer has spread outside of the uterus to the nearby lymph nodes, ovaries, fallopian tubes, or vagina. In Stage 4, the cancer has spread to the bladder, rectum, or outside of the pelvis such as the lungs or abdomen.

The overall 5-year survival rate for endometrial cancer is 80%. Rates are higher at earlier stages: Stage 1: 87%, Stage 2: 76%, Stage 3: 59%, and Stage 4: 18%. The outlook is good if the cancer is detected and treated early.

Black Health Matters: What kind of treatment options are available or recommended?

Dr. Robinson-Brown: The mainstay of treatment is surgery which usually includes a hysterectomy. Other treatment options include radiotherapy (in those with later-stage disease or who may not be a good surgical candidate), chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and targeted therapy

Black Health Matters: Thank you for the overview and excellent information Dr. Robinson-Brown.

Let’s switch gears and learn more about our patient ambassadors. Do you mind sharing with us a little about your journey with endometrial cancer?

Ms. Harris: My journey began in 2016 with periodic vaginal bleeding after menopause which I did not know was a sign of endometrial cancer (EC). In May of 2022, I received an abnormal pap smear report and a biopsy of the lining of my uterus was performed. I was diagnosed with uterine cancer and referred to a gynecological oncologist who informed me that immediate surgery for the removal of the uterus was needed.

The total hysterectomy surgery was performed in June of 2022, which included the removal of the uterus, cervix, both ovaries, and both fallopian tubes. The physicians noted the cancer as Stage 1A. In July of 2022, I received six rounds of radiation therapy via vaginal brachytherapy to complete therapy. In January of 2024, I became a survivor of EC for a second time.

Ms. Goodwin: I am a four-year Endometrial Stage 4 cancer survivor. I was first diagnosed in July 2019 with Endometrial cancer stage 3. In October 2019, after a complete hysterectomy, I was diagnosed with Stage 4b. My treatment path was a robotic hysterectomy, 6 rounds of chemotherapy, and 26 rounds of radiation. I became a peer supporter to reach back and support other women like me, to walk this journey victoriously.

Black Health Matters: Thank you for sharing. Any final thoughts or insights to share?

Ms. Harris: I have learned so much since being diagnosed with endometrial cancer of the uterus. My most important piece of advice is to pay attention to your body’s warning signals and seek regular gynecologic care. Also, be a strong advocate for your health when speaking with healthcare providers. There is not nearly enough information about EC as there is about breast, cervical, ovarian, or other reproductive cancers.

Want to learn more about endometrial cancer? Visit here to learn more.

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