Their stories reveal how easily postpartum symptoms are dismissed and how fiercely Black women must trust their intuition to survive.

The Clue Hidden in Anjellica’s Breathing

Shortly after giving birth, Anjellica Davis began noticing changes she could not explain. Walking across a room left her breathless. Climbing stairs felt impossible. Even talking took effort. She was exhausted in a way that rest did not touch, and her chest carried a heaviness she could not shake. Her body felt unfamiliar.

She tried to fold it into the story of new motherhood. New mothers are tired. New mothers swell. New mothers push through. She kept pushing because she did not want to seem dramatic or ungrateful for motherhood. But her body kept insisting that something was wrong.

“I kept telling myself it was normal postpartum exhaustion, but deep down I knew something was off.”

Postpartum cardiomyopathy is often mistaken for the fatigue of new motherhood. It is a form of heart failure that disproportionately affects Black women and can be deadly when overlooked. Anjellica spent weeks questioning herself before someone close to her finally said what she had been afraid to admit. This is not normal, and you need help.

Motherhood in Survival Mode

When doctors told Anjellica that her heart was failing, her world shifted. Medication was not enough, and a transplant was becoming the best option.

She had just become a mother, and suddenly she fought to stay alive. Grief threaded through every part of her life, grief for the postpartum experience she imagined, the body she trusted, and fear of a future she might never reach.

“I did not have the luxury of processing it,” she says. “I was in survival mode. I was trying to be present for my baby while facing the possibility that I might not be here to raise him.”

Her son became her anchor, giving her something to hold onto on the hardest days.

A New Understanding of Maternal Health

Anjellica’s experience reshaped her understanding of maternal health and the inequities Black women face. “Black women are often not heard quickly enough,” she says.

“Symptoms are minimized. Pain is normalized. Exhaustion is dismissed. If I had not pushed and questioned, my outcome could have been very different.”

She now sees maternal health not just as a medical issue but as an equity issue, and she speaks openly about listening to your body, advocating for yourself, and trusting the intuition so many new mothers are taught to ignore. If something feels wrong, it probably is.

Erin’s Mysterious Headache

Erin Adelekun’s story begins with a headache she rated a six or seven out of ten. She blamed it on exhaustion. She had just given birth, was up every two hours feeding her daughter, and was barely sleeping. Her pregnancy had been healthy. She had no high blood pressure and no complications.

A stroke was not even a possibility in her mind.

“I didn’t know a stroke could happen to someone like me.”

When she mentioned the headache at discharge, the doctor told her to take Tylenol. COVID protocols pushed hospitals to send patients home quickly, and staff believed going home posed less risk than staying. She trusted that if something were wrong, someone would say so.

The next day, her arm dropped and her words tangled. Something inside her went still. And then she remembered a stress ball she had been given, the one printed with four letters she barely noticed at the time: F.A.S.T.

Face. Arm. Speech. Time.

She had glanced at it once and moved on. Now those letters snapped into place. They told her exactly what was happening. She was having a stroke.

That moment of recognition is what saved her life.

Relearning Life While Raising a Newborn

Erin’s stroke left her with aphasia, a condition that kept her mind sharp while her words slipped out of reach. She knew exactly what she wanted to say, yet the connection between thought and speech felt broken. So, she learned to communicate in new ways, relying on gestures, communication charts, long pauses, and a patience she never expected to need.

Conversations became slower, heavier, something she had to work her way through rather than speak.

“I was a born communicator who could not communicate,” she says. “It was frustrating and humbling.”

She needed full-time care for two years. The loss of independence cut deep, and even though she had survived something many do not, she still felt like she had failed.

“I went from giving birth to needing full-time care myself.”

Her village carried her through. Her husband, family, and friends cared for her daughter while her therapists helped her relearn how to walk and talk.

Finding Her Voice Again

Aphasia reshaped Erin’s relationship with communication. She learned to speak up in medical settings and to trust her body. She also learned that being quiet can be dangerous.

“I do not minimize my symptoms anymore,” she says.

“If something feels off, I say it clearly. I do not sugarcoat it.”

She now teaches others the signs of stroke. She teaches her children and her community because she knows firsthand that knowledge is survival.

What Survival Looks Like Now

For both women, survival is not a single moment but a daily practice that lives in their bodies, their spirits, and the choices they make to keep going.

Anjellica protects her heart with rest, boundaries, and a long view of her health. “Surviving changed everything,” she says. “Motherhood now includes boundaries, grace, and listening to my body without guilt.”

Erin stays anchored through her appointments, her medication, her movement, and her peace. “Taking care of myself is part of taking care of my daughter,” she says.

Their stories are both warnings and reminders. They show how urgently the world must listen to Black women when they speak about their health, how deeply postpartum care must reach beyond delivery, and how community and medicine together shape survival.

And they show, without question, that when Black women say something feels off, the world must not ignore them.

The post The Body Knows: Two Mothers Who Survived the Unthinkable appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Number 1: It’s The Silent Killer

Heart disease is known as the silent killer, and cardiovascular disease kills more women than all forms of cancer combined. Yet only 44% of women recognize that cardiovascular disease is their greatest health threat.

Number 2: All Ages Are Impacted by Heart Disease

Heart disease is not something that only impacts older adults; it can impact us at any age. In fact,  59% percent of Black women ages 20 and over are living with some form of cardiovascular disease.

Number 3: Your Weight Can Be a Factor

Almost 57% of Black women have obesity, making them the highest percentage among all racial, ethnic, and sex groups. Excess weight can strain the heart, raise cholesterol, and increase inflammation, ultimately making it a major driver of heart disease.

Number 4: Undiagnosed Diabetes Increases Your Chances of Heart Disease

Black women are more likely to have undiagnosed diabetes. High blood sugar damages blood vessels over time, which accelerates plaque buildup and sharply increases the risk of heart disease.

Number 5: We Are at a Higher Risk of Strokes

Stroke prevalence is highest among Black women (5.4%) compared with all women (2.9%). Stroke and heart disease share the same underlying issues of having blocked or damaged blood vessels. This means high stroke rates signal elevated cardiovascular risk overall.

Number 6: Hypertension is a Contributing Factor

When was the last time you checked your blood pressure? 4% of Black women have high blood pressure, one of the highest rates worldwide. Hypertension forces the heart to work harder, weakens arteries, and is the leading cause of heart attacks and heart failure.

Number 7: Giving Birth Puts You at an Increased Risk

Cardiovascular disease is the 1 killer of new moms and accounts for over one-third of maternal deaths. Black women have some of the highest maternal mortality rates.

Number 8: Preeclampsia & Gestational Diabetes Are Also Factors

If you have high blood pressure, preeclampsia, or gestational diabetes during pregnancy, it greatly increases a woman’s risk for developing cardiovascular disease later in life.

Number 9: Lower Estrogen Levels in Menopause

Low estrogen, particularly during menopause, increases heart disease risk in Black women by reducing cardiovascular protection, leading to higher LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, increased blood pressure, artery stiffening, and greater inflammation.

Number 10: Women May Not Receive CPR

Women are often less likely to receive bystander CPR because rescuers often fear accusations of inappropriate touching, sexual assault, or injuring the victim.

Knowing your risk is the first step to prevention. Use these facts to start conversations, make informed choices, and take control of your heart’s health. By making small changes today, you can protect your future and live a heart-healthy lifestyle. Click here to learn more.

Sources:

Heart Disease and Black Women: Risk, Factors, Prevention Strategies

Heart Disease and Stroke in Black Women

Unsettling Risk of Heart Disease in Black Women

Working Together to Reduce Black Maternal Mortality

Facts | Go Red For Women

A Heart to Heart About Cardiovascular Disease

The TRUTH about  African American Women and Heart Disease

Diabetes and Heart Disease

Risk Factors in Women

The post 10 Things Black and Brown Women Need to Know About Heart Disease appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What is Congestive Heart Failure?

According to the Mayo Clinic, heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t pump blood as well as it should. When this happens, blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath. If you have CHF, your heart can’t supply enough blood to meet your body’s needs.

When asked about his initial symptoms, Reid said, “Maybe over the last year or so, I started to feel more fatigued than before. And then when you feel that shortness of breath, sleeping a lot, more than normal…I think you just chalk it up to getting older, the road is harsh, doing the old kick step.”

In July 2025, the Class Act actor’s symptoms worsened, which led him to the emergency room at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. where he received the shocking diagnosis. Other symptoms can include:

• Shortness of breath with activity or when lying down.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Reduced ability to exercise.
• Wheezing.
• A cough that doesn’t go away or a cough that brings up white or pink mucus with spots of blood.
• Swelling of the belly area.
• Very rapid weight gain from fluid buildup.
• Nausea and lack of appetite.
• Difficulty concentrating or decreased alertness.
• Chest pain if heart failure is caused by a heart attack.

The American Heart Association reports that having at least one of the following risk factors may increase the risk of developing the condition. They include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, thyroid problems, metabolic syndrome, and getting older.

The Initial Treatment Prescribed for Reid Didn’t Work

Treatment for congestive heart failure often involves lifestyle changes and medications. Initially, Reid was given medication to treat his condition. When he returned for a three-week follow-up with his cardiologist, Dr. Erika Jones, she was immediately concerned. “He came in very swollen again, and that is a little unusual in somebody who’s been started on treatment, for the swelling to come back that quickly,” she told “GMA.”

Although he was scheduled to go out of town for a gig, Reid cancelled to undergo further testing. The results confirmed that his heart was failing and his condition was also impacting other organs. Dr. Jones urged him to return to Cedars-Sinai’s emergency room, where he was placed in the ICU.

A Heart Transplant Was His Only Option

The rapper learned his condition was quite serious, and he was placed on a transplant waiting list. Cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr. Laura Dichiacchio, told GMA the waiting list was crucial because Reid was in a life-or-death situation. He received a transplant nine days later.

Reid said he plans to cherish his second chance at life, saying, “This thing is … a beautiful life. It’s great. And, you know, I wanna be around for it.”

He also wants to encourage people of color to put their health first, a message that applies to his brothers in hip-hop, who often leave us too early. The American Heart Association says Black adults account for 50% of heart failure hospitalizations among US adults under 50.

Resources

Mayo Clinic: Heart Failure

American Heart Association: Causes  and Risks For Heart Failure

The post Kid ‘n Play‘s Christopher Reid Reveals He Had a Heart Transplant appeared first on Black Health Matters.

It’s a shift from the usual tone of health messaging, and it lands at a time when many men still avoid the topic entirely. For former Titans tight end Delanie Walker and longtime Chiefs star Tony Gonzalez, the message feels personal. Both joined the campaign with a sense of responsibility shaped by their own experiences and the people they care about.

Delanie Walker Understands What’s at Stake

Delanie Walker joined the campaign shortly after losing a family member to prostate cancer. The timing made the invitation feel heavier than a typical partnership.

“It was a no-brainer,” he said. “Something had just happened in my family, and now I can spread a message that might help someone catch it earlier.”

Before filming, Walker didn’t know a blood test could be used for screening. He assumed the exam always involved a more invasive examination that many men avoid. Learning about the blood test changed how he talks about screening with the people around him.

“I had no idea you could take a blood test to get screened,” he said. “We can relax, because it’s a blood test.”

Walker believes athletes can help open the door to conversations men usually sidestep.

“We want people to understand we’re just like them,” he said. He also knows how prostate cancer affects Black men at higher rates. “You’re not counted out,” he said. “If you are forty and up, getting screened can help with early detection.”

Walker explained why humor feels right for this message. The pun on “tight end” gives men permission to laugh before they listen, and it takes the edge off. It turns a tense topic into something people can discuss. “You kind of walk into that doctor’s room tight,” he said. “We’re telling you that you don’t have to do that. You can relax. It’s just a blood test.”

What stayed with him most was what he learned about his own health. “I really had no idea about prostate cancer,” he said. “Being part of this campaign, I learned even more about it and what I need to do to take care of myself.”

Tony Gonzalez on Taking the First Step

Tony Gonzalez joined the campaign for a deeply personal reason. Prostate cancer has affected several members of his family, including his grandfather and his uncle, both of whom passed away from the disease. “It is something that is personal to me,” he said. “It has affected members of my family, so it is personal from that standpoint.”

He recalls the anxiety surrounding the traditional exam. He has been through it himself and knows how many men avoid screening because of it. The campaign’s focus on a blood test felt like a chance to shift that fear into something more manageable.

“This is an alternative way to doing it,” he said. “It’s a blood test.”

Gonzalez wants men to understand how accessible that first step can be. Prostate cancer is common, and early detection gives people the best chance at a strong outcome. “You can go out there and just get the blood test,” he said.

The Super Bowl gives the message a reach that few platforms can match. Gonzalez knows how many men will be watching and how many partners, friends, and family members will be watching with them.

“When they can see guys they love watching play, it spreads that awareness,” he said. He hopes it encourages people to start conversations that often feel uncomfortable. “This is an important thing to do. It’s for your health.”

Why Tight Ends Work

The campaign features eight men, a deliberate nod to the statistic that one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Seven are current or former tight ends, and each wore a jersey in the eighties at some point in his career. The number is symbolic, but it also helps connect the message to the people most likely to see it.

That connection matters because prostate cancer is often silent in the early stages. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test measures a protein in the blood that may indicate changes in the prostate. It’s a simple blood draw that saves lives.

What They Want You to Know

Both Gonzalez and Walker want men to understand that the hardest part is starting the conversation. The campaign offers a way in. A simple blood test.

“It’s a conversation that needs to be had,” Gonzalez said. Walker agrees. “If cancer is at its lowest, we can treat it,” he said. “If it’s too late, it’s hard to treat.”

The next move is simple. Take the test. Tell your loved ones. Stay ahead by catching early.

It doesn’t have to be an ordeal. Breathe in, breathe out, and relax. All it takes is a blood test.

Resources:

Find a Prostate Cancer Screening | Relax it’s a Blood Test

The post “Relax, It’s a Blood Test” Delanie Walker and Tony Gonzalez Talk Prostate Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Why This Initiative is Important to Spencer 

“Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects one-quarter to one-third of adults with diabetes in the USA. Patients with CKD and type 2 diabetes have an elevated risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease and can eventually progress to end-stage kidney disease,” according to a 2025 article in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care. Studies show that risk is higher for the Black community, which has a higher rate of diabetes and high blood pressure as well. 

This makes the initiative personal to Spencer. “I’m a part of this health mission because I suffer from type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure that I control,” she says. “And because type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure and heart disease are quite prevalent in the Black community, as a Black woman, I felt compelled to become a part of this collective, to educate people.” 

Why We Should Consider uACR Testing 

This testing can help you identify serious health issues long before they begin to slow down your lifestyle. Spencer will appear alongside Modern Family star Sofia Vergara, whose mother has high blood pressure, in their upcoming commercial that will play during Sunday’s big game (aka The Super Bowl). With a play on action movies, its engaging tone will encourage viewers to get serious about their health by accessing the information uACR can offer.  

She described the ways that your kidneys can send out invisible distress signals.  “If you suffer from diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Your body could be sending out a silent SOS through your kidneys, and there is an easy way to detect that,” Spencer continued. “It’s important for all of us to know our numbers.”  

The Journal of the American Society of Nephrology recommends the critical need to increase uACR screening rates in at-risk patients. 

The Busyness of Life Can Distract Us from Our Health 

Whether you’re focused on status reports at work, sports games or family activities, it can be easy to sideline doctor’s visits when there are no visible issues.  

Spencer admitted to putting her health on the back burner, something many people do until they are unable to ignore it. “I’m a regular woman, and like regular people, a lot of the times, we don’t go to the doctor until we feel ill,” she says. “Being a part of this mission has made me realize that I don’t want to wait until I feel sick, because then sometimes it can be too late to turn things around. So now, I’m being more proactive.”  

How Her Work and Greater Mission Align 

Spencer offers her support to marginalized communities at her day job as well. She is preparing for the February 25 return of Lost Women of Alaska, the fourth installment of the Lost Women franchise, highlighting true crime stories. The series highlights who can be at a higher risk of facing harm at the hands of another.  

She shared why the premise of the show connects to her heart, as someone who could have easily been in a different place in life. Spencer was headed for law school before choosing the creative path after the loss of her mother. She might have been banging a gavel instead of walking red carpets.  

“Women, the elderly, children are our most vulnerable, and this season of Lost Women takes place in Alaska, where Indigenous women are preyed upon,” she says. Black women, like indigenous women, are at a higher risk of being murdered.  

“It’s important for me because my trajectory in life changed,” she says. “So this is a way for me to satiate the need for justice.” The series aims to highlight “people whose voices have been stolen” and “to raise awareness for women who might find themselves in compromising positions to always be aware of their surroundings and who they associate with.”  

Spencer is Prioritizing Her Health & A Balanced Life 

When she is not reminding people to learn about their bodies and be mindful of predators, she’s connecting with her loved ones. “I have learned that spending time with family and friends is just as important as getting up and exercising and eating healthy. These days, we are all on our devices and not necessarily interacting with our loved ones,” she continues. “They say, laughter is the best medicine. I don’t know that it’s the best medicine, but I know that it is good medicine.”  

That doesn’t mean she’s not focused on the medicine of movement. After twenty years of living with diabetes, she knows the importance of keeping up with her pilates.  “I’m 55, and I want to enter that phase of my life stronger,” she says. “The best way to do that, I think, is to be as preventative as possible.”  

Part of that prevention is knowing her numbers and continuing to focus on what she wants from the next phase of her life.   

“People say age gracefully; I just want to be strong.” 

Resources 

Detect the SOS 

BJM Open Diabetes & Care 

Journal of the American Society of Nephrology 

Trauma Violence & Abuse 

The post Octavia Spencer Wants Us To “Detect The SOS” From Our Kidneys appeared first on Black Health Matters.

TMZ reported that Norwood had been admitted to a Las Vegas hospital earlier this month. They attributed his admission to heart pains and a case of pneumonia.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ray J (@rayj)

Details About His Heart Issues

The reality star shed light on the details behind the incident in the Instagram post. “I want to thank everybody for praying for me,” he stated, looking directly into the camera lens. “I was in a hospital. My heart’s only beating like 25 percent, but as long as I stay focused and stay on the right path, then everything will be all right, so thank you for all your prayers.”

Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States of America. “One person dies every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease,” according to the Centers for Disease Control.

The American Heart Association reports that the amount of heart function that is considered “normal” is “between 55% and 70%.” Anything lower than that could potentially indicate severe damage to the heart, which could come with serious side effects. The tests used to measure heart function include echocardiograms (commonly referred to as echos), nuclear imaging, cardiac catheterizations, and cardiac MRIs.

Black Men Are at a Higher Risk for Heart Issues

The Journal of the American Medical Association considers heart failure with reduced ejection fraction “a major public health concern with substantial morbidity and mortality.” According to the Office of Minority Health, “Black/African Americans were 35% more likely than the U.S. population overall to die from major heart and blood vessel disease.” Trends in cardiovascular disease risk in the U.S. have cited Black men as a particularly vulnerable population for adverse cardiovascular events. Research from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine places them as 65% more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

Excessive Alcohol and Drug Use Can Increase Risks

In another since-expired video, which was ripped and migrated across social platforms, Norwood again referenced his health. He expressed regret for what he appeared to deem as excessive partying. “I shouldn’t have gone this hard,” he told viewers and another man who repeatedly entered and exited the frame before revealing that he had an upcoming appointment for further testing. Alcohol has been identified by the American Heart Association as a risk for cardiovascular disease, noting that “Drinking patterns, in particular binge and heavy episodic drinking, may modify the relationship between alcohol consumption and CAD risk.” Substance abuse of any kind can present physical health hurdles. Certain studies have even linked cannabis use to heart health risks. Norwood referenced heavy drinking in one of the videos he posted.

“Four or five bottles a day, 10 addys, f**ked my heart up on the right side right here,” he said, gesturing to his chest. “It’s like black, it’s like done.”

“2027 is definitely a wrap for me,” he added.

“Atherosclerotic heart disease and its antecedents pose the greatest risk for cardiovascular events for people prescribed stimulants,” per the Journal of Attention Disorders. “Stimulants are associated with increased risks of hypertension, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, cardiomyopathy, and stroke,” according to a 2025 article from the Journal of Substance Use: Research and Treatment. Prescription stimulants are particularly risky for older adults, according to a 2021 study from the Journal of Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacology.

Norwood made a few references to coconut water, which some perceive as a health tonic because of the potassium and electrolytes it contains, in the videos. He also shared his perspective on what he was thinking before his health challenges. He claimed he thought he was “undestructible.” “I could handle all the alcohol, I could handle all the adderall, I could handle all the drugs, but I couldn’t,” he continued. “It curved my time here. It curved it,” he added.

February is American Heart Month, an annual event that promotes heart health and raises awareness of the deadly threat of cardiovascular disease.

Resources

Centers for Disease Control

American Heart Association

Journal of the American Medical Association

American Journal of Preventive Medicine

American Heart Association

Journal of Attention Disorders

Journal of Substance Use: Research and Treatment

Journal of Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacology

The post Ray J Reveals His Heart Is Functioning at “25%” appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Megan’s Turn at the Menu

Megan Thee Stallion is expanding her food footprint again, this time with a Dunkin collaboration that’s already getting attention. The limited-edition “Hot Girls Run on Dunkin,” cup comes in a sunset gradient with her signature neon heart, and it launched alongside Dunkin’s new Protein Refreshers made with Protein Milk. It’s a smart extension of the lane she’s been building for years, from her Hottie Sauce era to her Popeyes franchise ownership and the Miami Beach location she officially opened in January 2026. Megan’s steady presence in the fast food space has fans watching closely, curious about what she’ll put her stamp on next.

She recently shared a clip of herself with the cup, styled in Dunkin’s pink and orange palette, hinting that fans should get in on the drop while it lasts.

 

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A post shared by Megan Thee Stallion (@theestallion)

How We Got Here

Megan’s moment isn’t happening in isolation. Over the past few years, celebrities have been shaping fast food from the inside out through custom meals, branded sauces, marketing takeovers, and even franchise ownership. The wave picked up in 2020 with Travis Scott’s meal, and it’s only grown from there.

McDonald’s kept the momentum going with a series of celebrity meals that followed.

In 2021, Saweetie came out with her combo, which included a Big Mac, four-piece Chicken McNuggets, medium fries, a Sprite, Tangy BBQ Sauce, and “Saweetie’ N Sour” sauce, a renamed version of the classic Sweet ‘N Sour sauce. The campaign encouraged fans to mix and match the items however they liked, turning the meal into a kind of edible playlist.

Cardi B and Offset’s 2023 Valentine’s Day meal included her go-to cheeseburger with BBQ sauce and a large Coke, while he enjoyed a Quarter Pounder with Cheese and a large Hi-C Orange Lavaburst, accompanied by fries and an apple pie to share.

Then, in 2025, Angel Reese, an NCAA champion and WNBA rookie, became the first female athlete to secure a national meal collaboration with McDonald’s. The Angel Reese Special included a BBQ Bacon Quarter Pounder with Cheese featuring a new Bold BBQ Sauce, medium fries, and a drink of choice. The campaign leveraged her basketball legacy and rising profile to showcase her emerging talent in women’s sports.

Other Chains Join the Conversation

Fast food collaborations did not stop at McDonald’s. Lil Nas X took on a creative role at Taco Bell, helping relaunch breakfast and tie it to his album rollout. Ice Spice’s 2023 Dunkin’ drink, a frozen coffee with pumpkin Munchkins and caramel drizzle, dropped during the VMAs in a campaign directed by Ben Affleck. These were cross-platform moments designed to meet fans where they already were.

From Endorsement to Ownership

Some celebrities have moved beyond the promotional cycle and into long-term investments. Rick Ross owns over a dozen Wingstop locations and has a stake in Checkers. LeBron James owns 19 franchise locations for Blaze Pizza. Then there’s Shaquille O’Neal, whose food empire includes nine Papa John’s, 17 Auntie Anne’s, one Krispy Kreme flagship in Atlanta, and his fast-growing chain, Big Chicken. These business strategies truly reflect a shift in how celebrity influence is leveraged.

The Calorie Burden Behind the Hype

According to the CDC’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, about 32% of U.S. adults consumed fast food on a given day between 2021 and 2023, with fast food accounting for 11.7% of daily calories. Among younger adults aged 20 to 39, the figure rises to 15.2%.

Celebrity meals are engineered for buzz, not balance. The Angel Reese Special clocks in at over 1,250 calories, which is more than half the recommended daily sodium intake for many adults. Saweetie’s meal and Cardi B and Offset’s combo offer similar nutrition profiles. It’s fun, and it may even be shareable, but making fast food a routine has profound implications for health outcomes.

Linking the Plate to Public Health

Between 2021 and 2023, 35.8% of Black children and adolescents had obesity. According to CDC data published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, this is the highest rate among all racial groups. Experts attribute food insecurity, targeted advertising, and reduced access to safe physical activity as the primary contributors.

But the Office of Minority Health report says Black or African American students in 9-12 grade were at the most significant risk. “Non-Hispanic Black or African American female students were almost 2 times more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic white female students.”

Colorectal Cancer is Also Rising in Younger People

Meanwhile, colorectal cancer is on the rise among younger adults, and the outlook is particularly harsh for Black Americans. The American Cancer Society’s 2025 report shows that Black men are 20% more likely to be diagnosed and 40% more likely to die from colorectal cancer than white men. Early 2026 projections indicate that these disparities have not improved.

For Black women, incidence is 14% higher, and mortality is 25% higher. Processed, low-fiber diets, typical of many fast-food options, are associated with an elevated risk, alongside structural barriers to screening and treatment.

This isn’t about feeling guilty for indulging in the latest trendy meal. However, it’s worth taking a moment to consider the more profound implications of seeing so many of our favorite celebrities promoting foods that don’t support our health. Our community already faces health disparities; it doesn’t exactly help to see a beloved musician holding up a burger stacked with sodium, sugar, and branding. When entertainment and marketing merge seamlessly, it’s easy to forget what’s truly at stake.

Dinner with a Side of Influence

Celebrity meals aren’t changing the food industry outright, but they’ve shaped how we engage with it. They blur the line between marketing and entertainment, and between habit and hype.

No one is forcing the order, but these meals reflect how easily pop culture can infiltrate our routines. We’ll leave it to you to decide who holds the influence: the celebrity, the brand, or the part of you that values your health over the hype.

Resources

How Hip-Hop Superstar Travis Scott Has Become Corporate America’s Brand Whisperer

NCHS Data Brief, Number 533, June 2025

Obesity Prevalence Among Children and Adolescents in the United States, 2011 to 2023 | Annals of Internal Medicine

Obesity and Black/African Americans | Office of Minority Health

Cancer statistics for African American and Black people, 2025

The post The Rise of Celebrity-Endorsed Calories appeared first on Black Health Matters.

But when you look closely at where cancer research is strongest, a pattern emerges that is hard to ignore. The states leading the country in research are not the states where Black Americans live in the greatest numbers. That gap shapes who benefits from the country’s most advanced cancer breakthroughs.

The States Winning the Research Race

SmileHub’s 2026 ranking of the best states for cancer research highlights the places with the deepest research ecosystems. These states have the most researchers per capita, the strongest funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the American Cancer Society (ACS), the highest clinical trial output, and the most robust cancer care infrastructure.

The top 10 states for cancer research are:

1. Massachusetts
2. New York
3. California
4. Pennsylvania
5. Colorado
6. Maryland
7. Oregon
8. Virginia
9. Connecticut
10. Minnesota

The ranking is built on thirteen metrics, including NIH grant funding, ACS funding, clinical trial activity, and hospital quality data from U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals for Cancer.

Massachusetts leads the list with top scores in both research funding and research output. New York ranks first in health care infrastructure. California sits in the top three across funding, output, and hospital quality. These states have long histories of academic investment, major research universities, and strong philanthropic networks.

But this map tells only one story. The real story is about who lives where.

Where Black America Actually Lives

Neilsberg’s 2025 analysis of U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) data shows a clear picture of where Black Americans live today. The five states with the largest Black populations are Texas, Florida, Georgia, New York, and California. These states anchor the modern Black population map. Pew Research Center reports that more than half of all Black Americans, about 56 percent, live in the South, which underscores how deeply rooted the population is in this region.

According to Neilsberg’s Black population ranking, Texas has 4,146,550 Black residents, which is 11.66 percent of the state’s population. Florida has 3,900,650, or 15.24 percent. Georgia has 3,648,016, representing 31.27 percent of the state. New York has 3,519,047, and California has 2,841,399.

Together, these five states account for more than 38 percent of all Black Americans.

A Map That Leaves Too Many Behind

The states with the largest Black populations rarely appear near the top of cancer research rankings. Georgia ranks thirty-eight. Florida ranks thirty. Texas ranks twenty-two. Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and South Carolina all fall in the bottom fifteen, even though they are home to some of the country’s most concentrated Black communities.

That gap has real consequences. Black Americans continue to face the highest cancer mortality rates in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. When the strongest research ecosystems are located far from the communities carrying the highest burden, access to clinical trials, specialty care, and advanced treatment becomes uneven by design.

When Distance Becomes a Barrier to Survival

Cancer research is tied to place. Clinical trials usually require in person visits. High quality cancer hospitals cluster in specific regions. Funding from the National Institutes of Health flows to institutions with long established research capacity. Insurance coverage varies by state. These factors shape who gets early detection, who gets advanced treatment, and who gets to participate in the studies that guide national standards of care.

When research is concentrated in the Northeast and West, and the highest burden communities are concentrated in the South, the result is a structural divide.

Black Americans are less likely to live near cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). They are less likely to be offered clinical trial participation. They are less likely to receive proper care. These patterns appear consistently in national cancer disparities reports and peer-reviewed research.

SmileHub did not create these disparities. But when its data is read through a different lens, the gaps reveal themselves with uncomfortable clarity.

What Real Investment Would Look Like

Imagine a South with more NCI designated cancer centers, stronger clinical trial networks, and research universities that anchor long-term investment. A South with increased NIH and ACS funding, deeper community-based research partnerships, better insurance coverage, and high-quality cancer hospitals within reach.

Imagine a research landscape that follows need instead of legacy.

The data points toward a future where investment is measured not only by scientific output, but by who can reach the front door of a research center. A future where breakthroughs are shaped by the communities that carry the highest burden. A future where geography is not destiny.

The Question We Cannot Ignore

The United States is investing billions to end cancer. But unless research infrastructure expands into the states where Black Americans actually live, the benefits of that investment will remain uneven. The communities with the highest cancer burden will continue to be left behind.

The country has the science, the momentum, and the resources to change the story of cancer. What remains uncertain is whether that progress will reach the communities that have carried the heaviest burden for the longest time.

Resources:

Cancer statistics, 2026 – Siegel – 2026 – CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians – Wiley Online Library

Best States for Cancer Research in 2026

Best Hospitals for Cancer in the U.S. | Rankings & Ratings

States in United States ranked by Black population – 2025 | Neilsberg

Facts About the U.S. Black Population | Pew Research Center

Cancer statistics for African American and Black people, 2025 – Saka – 2025 – CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians – Wiley Online Library

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Why Our Donations Matter So Much

For many of us, the people behind these numbers are not hypothetical. They are our children, our siblings, our neighbors living with sickle cell disease. According to the CDC, sickle cell affects more than 100,000 people in the United States and more than 90 percent of those affected are Black.

When the donor pool does not reflect our community, the people we love feel the impact first. According to Kaiser Permanente, blood transfusions can treat severe complications of sickle cell disease and help prevent additional problems, including lowering the risk of stroke in children. The safest matches often come from donors with similar genetic markers. As noted by the American Red Cross, this includes rare blood types such as U-negative and Duffy negative, which are found mostly among people of African descent.

The Hesitation Around Donation

In 2023, the NHLBI spoke with Black adults across the country to learn how they think and feel about blood donation. The conversations were honest and familiar. People named the history that still shapes their choices, including the segregation of blood supplies and the sense that donation drives rarely show up in Black neighborhoods or center Black experiences.

Researchers held twelve focus groups with adults ages 18 to 50. Some had donated once. Others had never donated but were open to it. Younger participants tended to know more about the process. Older participants often felt they did not have enough information to feel confident. Across every group, people said convenience, representation, and trust mattered.

Participants wanted to see blood drives in places they already go. They wanted clear information from trusted Black medical professionals. And they wanted to understand who their blood would help. Sickle cell disease affects more than 100,000 people in the United States, most of whom are Black, and many rely on transfusions throughout their lives. One in three Black donors is a match for someone living with sickle cell. Some rare blood types, including U-negative and Duffy negative, are found almost entirely in the African American community. A diverse blood supply is essential for patients who need those matches.

The message from the focus groups was simple. People want a donation experience that feels honest and connected to their lives.

Building a Donation Experience That Works

The NHLBI research makes one thing clear. When Black communities receive information that feels trustworthy, relevant, and grounded in their lived experience, willingness to donate rises. Change begins with meeting people where they are.

Convenience matters. Donation sites placed in familiar community spaces such as churches, malls, recreation centers, barbershops, and neighborhood hubs can remove a major barrier. Many participants said they would be more open to donating if the process felt easy to access or if they had someone to go with them. Compensation, even something modest like food or a small incentive, was also named as a meaningful motivator.

Trusted messengers matter just as much. Participants wanted clear information from Black medical professionals who could explain the process, address myths, and show the real impact of donation. They also wanted to understand exactly who their blood would help. Stories of patients living with sickle cell disease, families navigating weekly transfusions, or community members relying on rare blood types can create a sense of connection that national messaging often misses.

Helping others remains the strongest motivator. Many participants described the emotional pull of knowing their donation could save a life or support someone in crisis. When that impact is visible and personal, hesitation shifts toward action.

Building a more diverse blood supply is possible. It starts with information that feels honest, spaces that feel familiar, and outreach that reflects the communities it hopes to serve.

This Is About Health Equity

The shortage of Black blood donors reflects gaps in access and trust, shaped by a long history that has given our community real reasons to question the medical system. That history still leaves many people without the information or reassurance they need to feel confident about donating. It’s a health equity issue.

It’s also a place where meaningful progress is possible. When Black donors give blood, they strengthen a safety net that protects their own families and communities. They help a child with sickle cell get the match they need. They fill a gap that only this community can fill.
This moment can be a turning point. Not because the system has suddenly changed entirely, but because Black patients deserve the security that comes with a reliable and diverse blood supply.

Showing up for one another has always been a source of strength, and this year may be the year that strength reaches the donation room.

Resources:

How Black Americans Can Save Lives by Donating Blood

Blood Transfusions for Sickle Cell Disease | Kaiser Permanente

Rare Blood Types | Red Cross Blood Services

blood_donation_motivators_and_barriers.pdf

The post Why Don’t We Donate Blood More Often? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Disparities in Screening and Diagnosis 

More than half of all new cervical cancer cases occur among women who have never been screened or were screened infrequently. Screening and HPV vaccination are proven preventive measures, but access is far from equal. Black women are less likely to receive routine Pap smears and HPV vaccines, and they are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages of the disease.  

Only 37% of non-Hispanic Black women are diagnosed at a localized stage, compared to 46% of White women, which significantly reduces survival chances in Black women. Overall, Black women face a 65% higher mortality rate than in Non-Hispanic White people despite having a similar screening prevalence. Additionally, the 5-year relative survival rate for cervical cancer is 67% overall and 67% in Non-Hispanic White people, but only 56%in Non-Hispanic Black people. This demonstrates how these disparities among Black women negatively impact their overall health and well-being. 

Insurance status also plays a critical role in the survival rates and diagnoses. Women with private insurance or Medicare are more likely to be diagnosed early, while those uninsured or covered by Medicaid face higher rates of a late-stage diagnosis. This is due to lower screening rates and delayed follow-ups for abnormal test results. 

Generational Trends 

HPV vaccination has driven progress among younger women. Since 2012, cervical cancer incidence has dropped 11% annually for women aged 20–24, which is the generation that had access to the vaccine. However, rates are rising by 1.7% annually among women aged 30–44, who were too old to benefit from early vaccination programs. 

The post Cervical Cancer Is Deadlier Than We Realized—Especially for Black Women  appeared first on Black Health Matters.

That is precisely why regular screenings matter. A glaucoma screening is simple, painless, and one of the most powerful ways to protect your sight. If you have never taken one or are unsure what to expect during the exam, here is a guide to help you walk in with confidence.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, the part of the eye that sends visual information to the brain. This usually occurs when fluid inside the eye doesn’t drain properly, causing pressure to build up over time. You may not feel this pressure, but it can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss, especially in peripheral vision. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, but early detection can slow or prevent further damage.

It’s a Real Risk for Us

Glaucoma often develops under the radar. Most people don’t feel pain or notice vision changes until the disease has already caused damage. That is why screenings are so important, especially for Black families who face a higher risk and earlier onset.

Research shows that glaucoma appears earlier and progresses faster in African Americans, and blindness from glaucoma is significantly more common in our communities. And this is precisely why glaucoma screenings are so important. Glaucoma can affect anyone, but it shows up earlier and hits harder in our community.

Who Should Get Screened

How often you need an eye exam depends on your age and your risk. If you’re under 40 and don’t have any risk factors, an eye exam every few years is generally fine.

For our community, the risk is higher. Because glaucoma often shows up earlier and moves faster for Black people, experts recommend a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years beginning at age 40. The National Eye Institute notes that African Americans should begin glaucoma evaluations earlier than other groups because of this increased risk.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology also offers general guidance on how often to get checked:

•  Every 2-4 years for adults ages 40–54
•  Every 1–3 years for adults ages 55–64
•  Every 1–2 years for adults 65 and older

For our community, these timelines often shift earlier because of the higher risk.

You should also get screened if:

• You have a parent or sibling with glaucoma
•  You have diabetes or high blood pressure
•  You have had an eye injury
• You have been using steroid medications long-term

Family history is significant. Siblings of people with glaucoma have a much higher chance of developing it themselves.

How Glaucoma Screening Works

A glaucoma screening is typically included in a comprehensive eye exam. It is not scary, and nothing should hurt. The BrightFocus Foundation provides a clear overview of the tests involved, and here is what the appointment typically includes.

A conversation about your eye health

Your doctor will ask about your vision, family history, and any medical conditions. This helps them understand your personal risk.

A check of your eye pressure

This is called tonometry. Some clinics use the puff of air. Others use a small device that gently touches the surface of your eye after numbing drops are applied. High pressure can be a sign of glaucoma, but pressure alone does not confirm the disease.

A look at your optic nerve

Using a bright light and a magnifying lens, your doctor examines the optic nerve at the back of your eye. Glaucoma affects this nerve first, so this step is essential.

A test of your side vision

This is the visual field test. You look straight ahead and press a button whenever you see small lights appear in your peripheral vision. Glaucoma often affects side vision before central vision.

A measurement of your corneal thickness

This is called pachymetry. A small probe touches your eye after numbing drops are applied. Corneal thickness can affect how intraocular pressure is measured, and thinner corneas are associated with higher glaucoma risk.

Imaging of the optic nerve

Some clinics use OCT imaging, which provides detailed images of the optic nerve and retinal layers. It helps track changes over time and can detect early damage.

What Happens After the Screening

Your doctor will review your results and let you know if anything looks concerning. They may recommend follow-up testing or regular monitoring. If glaucoma is suspected, early treatment can slow or prevent vision loss. Most people start with prescription eye drops, and many never need surgery.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment

Bring your glasses or contacts, a list of medications, and any information about family history. Expect your eyes to be dilated, which can make you sensitive to light for a few hours. And remember, choosing to get screened is something to be proud of. It’s a meaningful step to protect your health.

What to Remember

Glaucoma screenings are quick, painless, and one of the best ways to protect your vision. If your results show anything concerning, your doctor will walk you through the following steps. There are several effective treatments for glaucoma, but the first and most crucial step is getting screened.

Resources:

African Americans And Glaucoma – Glaucoma Research Foundation

Racial Disparities in Glaucoma: From Epidemiology to Pathophysiology – PMC

Eye Health Among Black/African American People | National Eye Institute

Frequency of Ocular Examination – American Academy of Ophthalmology

The Glaucoma Eye Exam: 6 Common Tests

The post What to Expect During a Glaucoma Screening appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Green Smith, a certified nurse-midwife, disseminated valuable information about gaps in Black maternal health outcomes on social media. She went by the moniker the “Loc’d Midwife.”  

She is survived by her husband, newborn, and the many people whose lives she touched by practicing her life’s calling of “catching babies.”  

Dr. Green Smith’s Advocacy 

She worked with the non-profit The Hive Impact Fund to support mothers and mothers-to-be with the resources required to expand and maintain their families.  

Her death was met with an outpour of mourning on social media. The American College of Nurse-Midwives issued a statement expressing their grief, sadness, and outrage at the unexpected news. It appeared across their social channels.  

“Dr. Smith was a respected midwife, scholar, and advocate whose life and work reflected a deep commitment to respectful, evidence-based, and equitable care. That a Black midwife and maternal health expert died after giving birth in the United States is both heartbreaking and unacceptable,” they wrote.  

“Her death underscores the persistent and well-documented reality that Black women-regardless of education, income, or professional expertise-face disproportionate risks during pregnancy and childbirth due to systemic racism and failures in care,” they continued.  

Black Women Are at Increased Risk Despite Education, Income, or Professional Expertise 

Green Smith’s tragic death is a heartbreaking example of the Black maternal health crisis. In 2024, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that “Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than White women.” The International Journal for Equity in Health describes Black maternal mortality in the United States as “one of the most alarming and persistent indicators of racial injustice.” 

“Most maternal deaths are preventable, as the health-care solutions to prevent or manage complications are well known,” according to the World Health Organization. To prevent these tragic occurrences, competent and caring providers must be available.  

The Rise of Maternity Deserts 

 

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Location plays a role in maternal health outcomes. A new report highlights a dwindling supply of obstetricians and gynecologists in non-metropolitan areas. Rural residents are particularly at risk.  

Areas such as Green Smith’s home state of South Carolina are sometimes referred to as “maternity deserts.”  

According to the Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, “The shortage of ob-gyns in 10 years is projected to progressively worsen by today’s standard practice patterns.” By 2035, “Only six states (Hawaii, New York, Connecticut, Maryland, Rhode Island, Louisiana) were projected to continue to have an adequate supply.” The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services projects a shortage of obstetricians and gynecologists; its forecasts indicate that there will not be enough physicians in the specialty to meet the nation’s needs by 2037.  

This is Not a Socioeconomic Issue Alone 

Some dismiss the Black maternal health crisis because of poverty and preexisting conditions alone. A 2020 article from the World Journal of Gynecological Women’s Health points out that “Racial disparity exists in maternal mortality despite correcting for commonly cited reasons” and “It is a problem for Black American women and cannot be explained by socioeconomic factors alone.” 

Black maternal health challenges traverse tax brackets and class boundaries. “These outcomes cannot be understood through individual behavior, access, or socioeconomic status alone,” reports the International Journal for Equity in Health.  

Young, beautiful, educated, well-off Black women die in childbirth due to neglect.  

Angelica Lyons, as Green Smith did, works to advocate against the ways medical racism impacts birthing people. Her work took place in the classroom. In 2023, she told the Associated Press that she nearly died from sepsis after her pain was ignored by an Alabama hospital. She reported that the severe pain she was experiencing was dismissed as Braxton Hicks contractions by healthcare professionals who did not take her seriously. Her dilemma showed how racial bias in pain assessment can interfere with providing adequate maternal care.  

How We Can Combat This Issue 

Public figures, including the editor-turned-television personality Elaine Welteroth, have joined the fight to address the crisis. Welteroth’s BirthFund raised money to expand access to midwifery with support from her Founding Family Funders, including Kelly Rowland and Serena Williams. 

Williams’ harrowing birth story was so widely reported that it became a footnote in an episode of Insecure. The tennis star turned venture capitalist experienced a pulmonary embolism following the birth of her daughter, Olympia. Her story of demanding that the doctors take her concerns seriously frightened many.  

Fighting For Reproductive Justice is Critical 

“To address the disparities in Black maternal health, expanding access to midwives and doulas is essential. Midwifery care reduces preterm births and cesarean delivery rates and improves breastfeeding outcomes, particularly among Black mothers. Doulas provide invaluable emotional and physical support during pregnancy and childbirth, mitigating racial biases and fostering trust in the health care system,” according to The National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.  

Black Maternal Health Week was founded in 2016 to encourage collective action and community engagement in support of reproductive justice. It amplifies the voices of Black organizations supporting people who give birth and their families.  

They connect the public with individuals who provide life-changing care, such as Green Smith.  

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Dr. Janell Green Smith.  

Resources 

The Hive Impact Fund 

International Journal for Equity in Health 

Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology 

World Health Organization 

South Carolina Daily Gazette 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services  

World Journal of Gynecological Women’s Health 

Proceedings of the National Academy of Science 

BirthFund 

The National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion 

The post Beloved Maternal Health Advocate Dr. Janell Green Smith Died in Childbirth    appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Did you know January is dedicated to raising awareness about cervical health? Your cervix is the lower part of your uterus, which connects the uterine cavity to the vagina. It plays a vital role in reproduction and overall health. 

Keeping your cervix healthy is essential because issues like inflammation, abnormal growths, and cervical cancer can affect this small but vital part of your body. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to protect your cervical health starting today! 

1. Get Regular Screenings: Pap Smear and HPV Test

Screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer. The Pap test (or Pap smear) and the human papillomavirus (HPV) test are used to check for abnormal cells and HPV infections that can lead to cervical cancer. 

Both tests involve gently collecting cells from your cervix for lab analysis. If precancerous cervical cell changes are found, they can be treated before they turn into cancer. HPV tests detect high-risk HPV types, while Pap smears examine cervical cells for abnormalities. 

Most cervical cancers occur in women who skip regular screenings, so stay on schedule and talk to your healthcare provider about your results and next steps.

2. Protect Yourself with the HPV Vaccine

The HPV vaccine helps prevent infection from virus types most commonly linked to cervical cancer. It also protects against some types that cause genital warts. 

It works best before exposure to HPV, so vaccination is recommended for children ages 9–12. Teens and young adults aged 26 and under who have not been vaccinated should receive the shots as soon as possible. The vaccine is administered in 2 or 3 doses, with side effects typically mild, such as soreness at the injection site. 

It is important to note that no vaccine provides complete protection against all cancer-causing HPV types, so regular cervical screenings are still essential. 

3. Limit HPV Exposure and Use Condoms

HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It can also spread without sex, such as through hand-to-genital contact. Since HPV is common and often has no symptoms, anyone can pass it on without knowing. 

You can lower your risk by limiting the number of sexual partners and being cautious of partners who have had many others. Using condoms also helps to reduce HPV transmission and related health issues like genital warts, cervical dysplasia, and cervical cancer. While condoms do not fully protect against HPV because they do not cover all areas (like the scrotum), they are still one of the easiest ways to lower your risk when combined with regular screenings and vaccination. 

4. Exercise and Eat a Healthy Diet

Regular physical activity can help lower your risk of cervical cancer by strengthening the immune system, supporting hormonal balance, and reducing inflammation. With just 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, you can make a meaningful difference in your health. 

You can also pair exercise with a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. These foods provide antioxidants and minerals that support your body’s fight against HPV infections and slow the process by which healthy cells become cancerous. Together, movement and nutrition support overall health and reduce your risk. 

5. Quit Smoking

Smoking exposes you and those around you to cancer-causing chemicals that affect more than just the lungs. These harmful substances are absorbed through the lungs and carried throughout the body in the bloodstream. 

Women who smoke are about twice as likely to develop cervical cancer compared to those who do not. Tobacco products have been found in cervical mucus, and researchers believe these chemicals damage the DNA of cervical cells, ultimately increasing cancer risk. Smoking also weakens the immune system, which makes it harder to fight HPV infections. 

6. Understand the Risks of Long-Term Birth Control Use

Research shows that using oral contraceptives for many years (5+) can increase the risk of cervical cancer. The longer the use of oral contraceptives, the higher the risk of cervical cancer. Fortunately, the risk decreases after stopping the oral contraception and eventually returns to normal over time. Hormones in the oral contraceptive pills may influence cervical cells, potentially increasing cancer risk. If you plan to use birth control pills long-term, talk with your doctor about the benefits and potential risks. 

Resources

American Cancer Society: The HPV Test

American Cancer Society: Pap Tests

American Cancer Society; Can Cervical Cancer Be Prevented?

HCG Oncology

American Cancer Society: Cervical Cancer Risk Factors

Frontiers in Pharmacology

The post 6 Tips for a Healthy Cervix appeared first on Black Health Matters.

COVID-19

COVID-19 continues to circulate during the 2025-2026 respiratory virus season. According to the CDC’s Respiratory Illness Data Channel, national COVID activity is low but increasing, and the virus remains one of the primary contributors to winter respiratory illness alongside influenza and RSV.

Clinicians are also noting shifts in how COVID is showing up this season. In an interview with Parade, infectious disease experts reported that recent variants are causing more upper respiratory, cold-like symptoms rather than lower-respiratory pneumonia that was more common early in the pandemic.

COVID-19 Symptoms

The CDC notes that people with COVID-19 can experience a wide range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure and can include:

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

COVID-19 Vaccination

COVID-19 can still be serious, especially for older adults, people with underlying health conditions, and those who are immunocompromised. The CDC recommends a 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine for people ages 6 months and older, based on individual decision-making, and emphasizes that vaccination is particularly important for adults 65 and older and others at higher risk for severe disease.

Influenza (Flu) 

Seasonal influenza activity remains elevated across the United States and continues to rise, according to the CDC’s latest surveillance data. The 2025-2026 flu season is shaping up to be rather severe, with widespread illness and rising hospitalizations reported across the country. Many states are reporting high or very high flu activity, and several regions are seeing sharp increases in emergency department visits and flu-related hospital stays.

The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that influenza A (H3N2) is one of the major strains circulating globally this season, and it has been associated with increased illness in several regions.

Flu Symptoms

Yale Medicine notes that flu symptoms can range from mild to severe and often begin suddenly. Common symptoms include:

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

Flu Vaccination

The CDC recommends a flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older, with extra importance for adults 65+, young children, pregnant people, and those with underlying conditions. For 2025-2026, the Food and Drug Administration and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices introduced updates to flu vaccine options, including expanded age approvals.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV is a common respiratory virus that can affect people of all ages, but it tends to cause the most severe illness in infants, young children, and older adults. According to the CDC, RSV activity is elevated in many parts of the country, with emergency department visits and hospitalizations increasing among children ages 0-4 this season.

RSV Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear four to six days after infection and may include:

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

RSV Vaccination

For the 2025-2026 season, the CDC recommends RSV vaccination for adults 75 and older, adults 50-74 at increased risk, and protection for infants through maternal vaccination or a one-time RSV monoclonal antibody dose before their first RSV season.

Protecting Yourself and Others

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

• Wearing a well-fitting mask in higher-risk situations to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets.
• Utilizing air filters and promoting air circulation by opening windows.
• Cleaning frequently touched surfaces to reduce the spread of germs.
• Washing hands regularly with soap and water.

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

 Resources:

Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel | Respiratory Illnesses | CDC

Most Common COVID-19 Symptoms Right Now (January 2026) – Parade

Symptoms of COVID-19 | COVID-19 | CDC

Staying Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines | Covid | CDC

Weekly US Influenza Surveillance Report: Key Updates for Week 52, ending December 27, 2025 | FluView | CDC

New influenza variant is surging, but vaccination still our best bet: WHO | UN News

Influenza (Flu) | Fact Sheets | Yale Medicine

Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2025–26 Influenza Season | MMWR

Respiratory Illnesses Data Channel | Respiratory Illnesses | CDC

RSV Vaccine Guidance for Adults | RSV | CDC

Immunizations to Protect Infants | RSV | CDC

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

Dr. Stacy Johnson 

Nephrologist  

Clinical Development Director 

Vertex 

Alonzo Mourning 

Disease Advocate  

Vertex 

Kidney diseases can show up anywhere, including NBA locker rooms. Athletic legend and disease advocate Alonzo Mourning shared his experience discovering and cheating with APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease at the Black Health Matters 2025 Health Summit & Expo.  

He was joined by Black Health Matters Founder Roslyn Daniels and Dr. Stacy Johnson, Nephrologist, Clinical Development Director at Vertex.  

Johnson highlighted the deep racial disparities in the diagnosis of kidney diseases. “Although African-Americans make up about 14% of the US population, they represent about 30% of the cases of kidney failure,” she said. The research has deepened into the genetic components of kidney disease in recent years.  

“We have known for a long time that African-Americans have a higher chance of developing kidney disease, ending up on dialysis, or needing a kidney transplant. And it wasn’t until about 2010 when scientists were able to actually identify that there is a genetic cause,” Johnson continued.  

A 2025 review of the Journal of Kidney Medicine reports that “6 million African Americans have a high-risk genotype,” which puts them at risk of kidney disease.  

Johnson clarified that this risk can persist despite adopting doctor recommendations. “I think a lot of times before that people thought oh maybe your kidney disease isn’t getting better because your blood pressure isn’t under control, because you’re just not doing the right things,” she said. “But what we know is that no, there’s nothing that someone is doing wrong. You could do everything that you need to do to take care of your health, and sometimes the kidney disease continues to progress. But having that knowledge means now we can put a name to it. When you can name something, then you can start to deal.”  

“The United States doesn’t really believe in investing in preventative care for its citizens,” said Daniels. “We bear this burden of disease; it’s not our fault.”  

“We’re not getting the care that we deserve along the way, and by the time we’re diagnosed, it’s advanced,” Daniels added. “There’s no stigma here. There’s no pointing fingers.”  

Heart disease is dubbed “the silent killer,” but kidney disease is just as sneaky. Its ability to be confused for other issues makes it extremely dangerous. That casual discomfort you’re dealing with might be a symptom of it creeping into your life undetected.  

“The CDC estimates maybe one out of nine US Americans has kidney disease, and most of them don’t know it,” said Johnson.  

“So that means there are a lot of there are like hundreds of thousands if not millions of people walking around with that are they’re losing kidney function slowly and steadily. Often, they may not have any symptoms. Sometimes they may have pretty mild symptoms like a little bit of fatigue. Maybe they might see some swelling in their feet that comes and goes, maybe they might see foamy urine, and they think, ‘Oh, I wonder if that means anything.’ But then they don’t, you know? No one follows up.”  

That lack of follow-up has severe consequences for many people. Their lives and schedules change. “Unfortunately, by the time it gets to the more advanced stages often people are basically headed towards either needing dialysis or a kidney transplant,” said Johnson.  

Mourning was fresh off the heels of an Olympic win at a point in his life where symptoms of kidney issues became unignorable. His victory lap was cut short.  

“I had just witnessed the birth of my daughter,” he said. “I was defensive player of the year. I had just finished winning the gold medal. I mean, I was at the the top of the world,” he said.  

Mourning noticed a few symptoms, but they did not jump out at him right away. “I was just tired. I had a lot of lethargy,” he said. “My legs were swelling a little bit and initially I kind of attributed it to the intense physical training and the travel and flying over to Sydney, Australia.”  

He was referred to a nephrologist, a medical doctor specializing in the health of the kidneys. “At that time when I was 30 years old I didn’t know what a nephrologist was,” he added. “They diagnosed me with FSGS, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. It’s a disease that slowly scars the filters in the kidney, and I had the aggressive form.”  

The first opinion was quite drastic. The doctor predicted that Mourning would be on dialysis and the transplant list within 365 days. Evaluations of kidney disease can be subjective. In some cases, it is wise to consult another voice.  

Mourning refused to accept the course of treatment without seeking a second opinion.  

“I was able to find another doctor. And that doctor took a different approach. He said, “Look, let’s try to slow the progression of the disease down with some medication, oral medication,” he said.  

They participated in shared decision making (SDM), a practice advocated for in a 2023 article from the Clinical Kidney Journal. This shifts away from a paternalistic viewpoint and empowers the patient.  

The less aggressive strategy worked out. “I was never on dialysis, and I didn’t need a transplant until three years later.” 

Mourning participated in clinical research to further efforts to gain knowledge about his condition. “My nephrologist informed me about a research study that was designed to better understand the type of kidney disease that I had, and after discussing all of this with him, I had to trust that he was doing the right thing for me,” he said. Genetic testing and other studies can greatly benefit the outcomes of patients. He suggested that attendees talk with their family members to find out if they have been impacted by kidney disease in the past, so that they can share that information with their doctors.  

“We’ve got to know our family history. We’ve got to have dialogue,” Mourning added. 

Daniels explained how coming together as a community can spark dialogue. “You all are the beginning. You’re laying the foundation,” she told attendees. “You all will share with your friends and family the importance of the knowledge shared here.”  

Johnson pointed out the importance of proactivity in healthcare. “I think this conversation is really important,” added Johnson. “We may see some of these symptoms and hope that things are going to change, but hope is not a strategy. We need to ask questions and have these things checked out.”  

Mourning advised the room to learn from his mishaps. “Don’t ignore the signs and the 

symptoms, okay? Don’t just brush it off, okay? That was something that I did.”  

The post A Conversation About APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease (AMKD)  appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Black Millennials might still be suffering from the pop lock and drop it era, but random knee pain isn’t the only challenge they’re facing. Healthcare firms are meeting the moment by including hip-hop and R&B in their consumer marketing efforts.  

As millennials age, their vast healthcare concerns are moving to the forefront of the healthcare industry priority list. That means integrating messaging that will speak to them directly.  

The music that once signaled a rebellious youth of bar hopping and bottle service is now helping providers court a generation of adults in need of information and interventions to address their collective issues.  

Music As a Means of Getting Attention  

Research shows that tapping into cultural competency works when trying to reach specific audiences. “The importance of cultural competency, including culturally and linguistically appropriate resources and tools, cannot be overstated or overemphasized,” according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).  

Unlike a generic jingle, a familiar jam can stop you in your tracks. It can reconnect you to a moment from your past. Twisting around familiar beats isn’t the only way to have an impact.  

Speaking the language of music can help create connections, too. We Are Ill founder Victoria named her organization, designed to connect Black women with chronic illness, after the classic Nas album Illmatic.  

New music can have an impact as well. The FDA turned to developing original hip-hop songs to convince young people not to smoke. Gilead turned to rapper and podcaster Big Loon to help spread the message about their efforts to promote safer sex. Power to the Patients turned to Busta Rhymes, Fat Joe, Method Man, Rick Ross, Chuck D, and French Montana to promote their arguments for transparency in healthcare pricing.  

Fighting HIV With TLC 

TLC, a group that broke barriers by getting a generation to talk frankly about sex, has had their hit “Creep” reinterpreted for Gilead to promote PrEP. Original and core group member Tionne ‘T-Boz’ Watkins performed the healthcare-centered rendition.  

“In the 90s, we used our platform to speak truth and empower people to love themselves. That mission hasn’t changed,” Watkins told People in November.  

“Black women in the United States are disproportionately affected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and are less likely to be represented among HIV clinical research participants relative to their cumulative HIV burden,” according to Women’s Health. This makes TLC the perfect track to speak to an audience that needs to be informed about their options for protecting themselves.  

Fighting Colon Cancer With Lil’ Jon  

Lil’ Jon has transcended the Nuvo guzzling and the pill popping of the crunk era. The snap music pioneer converted his hit “Get Low” into a track to promote Cologuard, a screening device for colon cancer.  

“The distribution of CRC is not even across U.S. subpopulations; there is marked difference in CRC incidence, cancer stage, and cancer mortality by race and ethnicity. In particular, Black Americans show the highest incidence, and have the highest mortality among major U.S. racial and ethnic groups,” according to the Journal of Advances in Cancer Research.  

The American Cancer Society has highlighted the rise in colorectal cancer in people under the age of 55.  

Lil’ Jon shared why he agreed to do the campaign in a 2024 interview with Black Health Matters. “It just makes it easier to palette this subject because it’s funny because the song is called ‘Get Low #2,’ and you have to take a #2 to do the colon cancer screen with the Cologuard kit. So I thought it was pretty hilarious,” he said.  

He’s no slouch when it comes to promoting mental health either. He released an album for meditation.   

Raising Eczema Awareness with Mary J Blige  

Mary J. Blige owned the early 90s with “Real Love.” The kids who grew up singing the classic on their way to elementary school are primed to listen to the remixed version for EBGLYSS, a medication developed to fight eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis.  

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology reports that “Black people in the US experience greater atopic dermatitis (AD) prevalence, severity, and persistence when compared to White people.”  

Eczema presents differently in Black people making it more important that they be informed about the symptoms of the condition.  

Fighting Vaccine Misinformation with Juvenile 

Taking over for the 99 and the 2000 is like a millennial mating call. It flips a switch in the millennial brain flooding it with memories of when it was time to “Back That Thang Up” in a club that didn’t take Apple Pay or put a time limit on sections,  

This made it the perfect track to match the moment when anti-vaccine information was flooding the internet. Juvenile released “Vax That Thang Up” to promote the COVID-19 vaccine.  

He partnered with Mannie Fresh and Mia X on the track giving it an even stronger NOLA flavor.  

Resources 

Los Angeles Times: Millennials’ escalating health problems raise economic concerns 

Blue Cross Blue Shield: The Health of Millennials 

Centers for Disease Control 

Journal of Advances in Cancer Research.  

American Cancer Society: Colorectal Facts & Figures 

Billboard 

The post How Music is Matching the Moment for Millennial Health appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Mariana Broussard 

Associate Director, Global Patient Advocacy, Multiple Myeloma 

Dr. Brian Englehart, MD, MSCI 

Multiple Myeloma Medical Engagement Lead  

Robert Pugh 

Long-Term Multiple Myeloma Survivor Patient Advocate 

Robert Pugh was preparing for an upcoming sporting event when he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. The life-changing news arrived out of nowhere for the active man who considered himself the picture of health. “ I do not and did not ever have a history of illnesses of any kind,” he told the audience at the Black Health Matters Fall 2025 Health Summit & Expo in Charlotte, North Carolina.  

Pugh shared what it was like learning that he was facing multiple myeloma. “I was preparing for a race, a 15K, and I went in simply for an examination,” said Pugh. He wanted to get a jump on the minor pain he was feeling. It didn’t strike him as cause for serious concern. “As a runner, you’re accustomed to pain.” His doctor examined his back pain and raised an alarm. “He recognized that my white blood cells had decreased. They were not below the average number, but for me, they were below what he was accustomed to,” said Pugh. The physician recommended additional tests and ultimately gave him a referral.  

“I need you to go see this guy,” the doctor told him. Pugh was shocked to learn the guy was an oncologist.  

How Common Is Multiple Myeloma In Black Households? 

Pugh’s experience was not uncommon in the Black community. The International Myeloma Foundation reports that “In the U.S., African Americans are about 14% of the country’s population, but they constitute about 20% of all myeloma patients.”  

“Multiple myeloma is the second most common blood cancer in the United States,” said Mariana Broussard, Associate Director, Global Patient Advocacy, Multiple Myeloma at Bristol Myers Squibb.  It progresses over three stages. Treatments are advancing. There have been innovations in regimens including stem cell transplants but there is no cure. She described the way that the condition disproportionately impacts the Black community.  

“African-American patients are twice as likely to be diagnosed with multiple myeloma compared to white patients. We also often experience worse outcomes due to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Mortality is also about twice as high in the African-American community,” she continued.  

How Does Multiple Myeloma Show Up Differently?  

Unlike the dramatic moments people watch on television where a character finds an oversized lump they can’t ignore, this was not as clear-cut of a process. “’It’s disseminated. It is spread throughout your blood and bone marrow, which is unlike solid tumors, which you know generally begin as a lump or a bump in a solid organ,” explained Dr. Brian Englehart.  

Multiple myeloma is a common form of cancer, but Pugh had zero information about the condition when he received his diagnosis. “I had no idea what that was,” he said. “It just kind of threw me.”  

Pugh sprinted towards denial. He refused to believe what he was told initially. “When I was diagnosed, I thought they had the wrong person,” he said.  

According to a 2022 study in the American Journal of Hematology, “Multiple myeloma accounts for 1% of all cancers and approximately 10% of all hematologic malignancies,” and “each year over 32,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States, and almost 13,000 patients die of the disease.”  

Diagnosing Multiple Myeloma Can Be Difficult 

Englehart noted that Pugh’s experience of a simple annoyance symbolizing something more serious was not uncommon. “His course was kind of very typical for many patients with multiple myeloma,” he said. “Patients can often present with pain, and it’s in the back, it can be in the hip or ribs.”  

A person’s lifestyle, like Pugh being a runner, or their stage of life can impact how these symptoms are masked. “The other thing is we all, especially as we get older, we all experience pain,” said Englehart. He taught the room the differences in pain that might accompany a serious illness, and not just a stressful day.  

“There are some symptoms that are more worrisome than others, like pain that wakes you up at night or pain that doesn’t go away after a week or two of rest or pain that you can’t attribute to some strenuous activity or something that you’ve done in the preceding couple of days,” he continued. There are other symptoms that can be overlooked as well. “Patients can also have fatigue from anemia. Recurrent infections are also fairly common too, so multiple myeloma is a very tricky disease.”  

Myeloma Can Exist Without Symptoms  

He explained that firming up a diagnosis can be difficult due to the protocol. “There is no one test generally used for diagnosis,” Englehart added. “It’s really a series of tests.”  

“Some patients with myeloma are asymptomatic. They have no symptoms whatsoever and are diagnosed incidentally,” said Englehart. “You go for a routine checkup, and your doctor finds out that you’re more anemic or your kidneys aren’t functioning normally. Sometimes that can lead to a diagnosis.”  

Routine screenings can help patients learn their status and begin treatment sooner. Accessing these can be difficult for those without the necessary resources. “Economic and social characteristics can play a large role in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of multiple myeloma,” said Englehart. “If healthcare access is limited, symptoms may go undiagnosed or untreated.”  

Treating Multiple Myeloma Requires Collaboration  

The trickiness of multiple myeloma is best fought as a unit. Patients have to advocate for themselves and coordinate with different health care providers to improve their outcomes.  

“It really takes a team and a village to help treat and care for patients with multiple myeloma,” said Englehart. “Patients who are diagnosed with multiple myeloma, it’s also important to know that their usual treatment course is dictated by a multidisciplinary team. Meaning it’s groups of different doctors, nurses, clinicians involved in their care. That can be hematologists, oncologists, it can be radiation doctors, radiologists, pathologists, supportive care.  

Multiple Myeloma Can Impact One’s Mental Health  

It can be helpful for one’s healthcare team to include a mental health professional as well. A 2025 article in the Journal of Clinical Lymphoma Myeloma and Leukemia identifies mental health considerations as a gap in the treatment protocols for multiple myeloma patients. It found that “People with myeloma often report high levels of anxiety and depression and are reported to have the lowest quality of life of any cancer type likely due to the incurable nature of the disease.” Pugh confirmed the mental health challenges. “I was the mover and the shaker. I wasn’t moving or shaking. So, I found myself avoiding people, you know? Because you’re just not who you thought you were.”  

His trust and relationships with his providers helped him work through those challenges. They helped him establish a routine for a maintenance phase to keep his health in mind during his day-to-day life. It would look different, but he could make it look the best possible with proper intervention.  

“Myeloma is not something that that comes you take care of it, and it’s over,” he acknowledged  

Pugh advised those recently diagnosed to take the advice they are given to heart to pursue the best health they can and define their own maintenance phase routine.  

“You have to take ownership for what you’re being told,” said Pugh.  

The post Patient Power Insights from the Front Lines of Myeloma appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Shelley Gerson 

Associate Director of US Patient Advocacy  

at argenx 

Meriel Parker 

Myositis Caregiver, Rare Disease Advocate  

Caregivers are the cornerstone of the autoimmune illness community. Their support, compassion, and tenacity are essential to patients pursuing the best quality of life possible. Meriel Parker, a Myositis Caregiver and Rare Disease Advocate, and Shelley Gerson, Associate Director of US Patient Advocacy at argenx, discussed life with an autoimmune condition from a caregiver perspective at the Black Health Matters 2025 Health Summit & Expo Recap.  

The two bonded over their mutual experience as caregivers.  

“Meriel and I discovered that we have a common experience, and that we both had dads that had chronic illness, and were caregivers,” Gerson told the audience.  

She requested that other caregivers in the room reveal themselves. Raised hands sliced through the air, proving how common the role is in society.  

According to the Journal of Neurology, “Sporadic inclusion body myositis (IBM) is the most common acquired myopathy in individuals older than 50 years.” Delays to diagnosis are frequent with autoimmune conditions.  

Parker explained how a family outing to a nature center led her father to receive a life-changing diagnosis. “My dad was a formidable, strong man, an entrepreneur. No dream was too big for him,” she said.  

His dreams included hiking. Parker and her daughter were joining him on a family hike to the same location he had taken Parker to previously. The older man was familiar with the terrain. His slowing down was a surprise.  

“He said, ‘My legs are so tired. I just can’t make it up the hill,’ and the hill was a fraction of what I’ve just stepped up on this stage,” she said.  

“It was just a little gradual slope,” she continued, gesturing to the few steps she walked up to join Gerson on stage.  

She knew this was no simple backache.  

“I didn’t say it out loud because I didn’t want him to be concerned, but I said, we’re in trouble because nothing would grip my father, let alone a small sloping hill,” Parker continued. “That began our journey.”  

It was a journey full of red tape that Parker was uniquely prepared for.  

“Having worked in healthcare, I have found, and I’ve seen that, for lack of a better term, the squeaky wheel gets the grease,” she said. “Older African Americans tend to have relatively higher rates of chronic illness than other race/ethnic groups,” according to the Journal of Cross-Cultural Gerontology. They require support.  

Her family spoke on her father’s behalf.  

An autoimmune disease is not like a severed limb or a dislocated joint. It requires detective work to identify.  

“We got him set up with a surgeon, a back specialist to talk with, and went 

through a litany of appointments,” Parker continued. She described their approach to the process as “diligent.”  

“We asked the right questions, and we prompted for referrals to specialists.”  

It is important caregivers step in, because patients might be unable to advocate for themselves due to the effects of their conditions. “When a person is not feeling well, they are trying to manage just living with the condition and the symptoms. It’s very challenging,” said Parker. “We would go to all of his appointments together. Either my mom went with him, or I did, and we would work as a team.”  

Multi-generational living helped the family work together even better. “My father said to me, If I’m going to fight this, if you really want me to be there with you and to fight this, I need to live in the same house as you and my granddaughter because you all are my heir, and that will give me the strength and the joy to be able to live through whatever days I have,’” said Parker.  

They started house hunting immediately. Living with family helped Parker’s father navigate the challenges of the disease, progressing with necessary support. “He went to a cane, and then a rollator, and then to a wheelchair, and a mobilized motorized wheelchair,” said Parker. Family was there to help him learn to use each tool. “The four of us moved in together, and we worked as a unit.”  

They dedicated their bodies to support his body, something caregivers do daily. “His physical strength declined, our physical strength increased,” said Parker.  

The Journal of Geriatric Nursing reports that “The taxing caregiving role often results in psychological and physiological stressors that negatively impact the personal health of the caregiver.” According to the Journal of Family Nursing, “Family caregivers’ support of patients with chronic, life-limiting illness includes difficult, life-altering, and often long-term tasks.” 

Parker confirmed that caregiving requires immense pressure.  

“It’s not unimportant for us to focus on the fact that if you’re a caregiver, you have to take good care of yourself. I learned firsthand of the toll that the stress takes on you,” she said. “But we did what we had to do to keep him with us as long as we could.”  

She devoted herself to her father’s needs to the exclusion of her own. “I did not want to have any regrets, and so I was going to pour in every ounce of energy that I could into having every moment with my father,” said Parker.  

Denying herself the care she needed weakened a core element of the team caring for her father. She found herself seeking treatment soon.  

“I went without sleep a lot, and I started to have muscle tremors on my own and had started to go to a specialist for diagnosis,” she said. During the assessment, the doctor advised her to make changes in her routine. They paid off.  

“I prioritized sleep, and maybe getting a massage once a month, and taking a walk, and taking some time for myself to actually have a break. It was necessary for me to be the best caregiver that I could be for my father,” she said.  

She encouraged the caregivers in the room to consider their physical and mental health before they start deteriorating.  

“I learned the lesson the hard way.”  

The post Life With An Autoimmune Condition appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Reality of HS

Frank is one of the 1 in 100 Americans living with HS, based on prevalence estimates reported in JAMA Dermatology. It is a chronic immune-related skin condition that causes painful bumps, lesions, and flare-ups in areas where skin rubs together. These flare-ups can make holiday travel unbearable, turn festive outfits into sources of dread, and transform simple gatherings into moments of physical stress. HS is often invisible to others, but its impact is constant.

How HS Shapes the Holidays

“Living with HS has always made the holidays feel different for me,” Frank said. “While others focused on the excitement, I was constantly wondering if a flare-up would hit. I felt pressure to show up looking and feeling fine even when I was not.”

Instead of slipping easily into celebration, he found himself quietly calculating pain levels, comfort, and how much his body could handle.

“So, instead of simply enjoying the moment, I often had to prepare myself both physically and emotionally in ways my peers did not.”

When Joy and Pain Collide

Frank remembers one holiday in particular. It was a moment that should have been simple and warm.

“I remember spending parts of the holidays feeling really uncomfortable, even when everything around me was joyful,” he said. “On the outside, I looked fine, but inside, I was fighting through discomfort that made even simple moments feel heavy.”

It is the kind of invisible burden many people with chronic illnesses carry, especially during a season that expects cheerfulness.

Adjusting Traditions and Expectations

Over time, Frank learned to adapt holiday traditions in ways that protected his body and energy.

“I choose clothing that will not irritate my skin. I try to avoid long stretches of sitting in uncomfortable chairs or tight spaces. I build in moments to step away and rest if I need to,” he explained. “I enjoy the holidays, but I just participate at a pace that honors where my body is.”

Balancing Participation and Pain

The desire to be fully present does not disappear, but neither does the unpredictability of HS.

“I had to learn that giving myself grace is not the same as missing out,” he said. “Some years I could do everything, and some years I needed to move slower or say no. My worth is not tied to how much I can physically do.”

What He Wishes Others Understood

Frank wishes that people could see the whole picture.

“I wish people understood that even when I look fine, I may still be dealing with real discomfort,” he said. “I am not being distant or disengaged if I need to sit something out. I am still grateful to be there. I am just listening to my body.”

Strategies That Help

Managing HS during the holidays often means focusing on what can be controlled.

“I take Cosentyx to help manage my symptoms,” Frank said. “Rest is a big one. Staying mindful of stress and protecting my peace is another. I stick to a gentle routine that keeps my body supported, even when my schedule gets busy. And honestly, asking for help or slowing down when I need to has made a huge difference.”

The Power of Community

“Recently, I was part of a Cosentyx event. That was a turning point for me,” Frank said. “Sitting in a room with people who understood this condition on a personal level reminded me of the power of community. Hearing our stories side by side made it clear that none of us are walking this alone.”

During a season when many people with chronic conditions feel isolated, that sense of connection matters.

A Message to Others Living With HS

For people navigating HS or any chronic condition during the holidays, Frank offers a message rooted in compassion and truth.

“You are not behind, you are not broken, and you are not alone,” he said. “Your body may move differently, but your light is still just as strong. Take things at your own pace, protect your peace, and know that there is a whole community of people who understand exactly what you are carrying. You belong in every room you enter, exactly as you are.”

Resources:

Frank Grimsley (@franknthecity) • Instagram photos and videos

The Circle Netflix (@thecirclenetflix) • Instagram photos and videos

Prevalence of Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Systematic Review and Meta-regression Analysis | Dermatology | JAMA Dermatology | JAMA Network

Hidradenitis Suppurativa | COSENTYX® (secukinumab)

The post Frank Grimsley of The Circle on Living With HS During the Holidays! appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Braithwaite Noticed the Lack of Black Female MS Representation

She faced a void of information. “The lack of representation is a big deal,” she told Black Health Matters. Multiple sclerosis (MS) patient outreach efforts did not reach her 25-year-old corner of the internet. A 2022 study from the Journal of Neurology found that MS. disproportionately impacted Black women. You wouldn’t know it by what Reese Brathwaite found on the internet in 2012.

The faces of the patients she saw sharing information did not mirror her own. Searches for multiple sclerosis symptoms rarely churned out baddies with straight-back cornrows.

“When you don’t see yourself, which is a big part of my origin story, but [when] you don’t see yourself in a health condition, especially one that you have to live with for the rest of your life, that really changes the trajectory of how you care for yourself,” she said.

From Patient Advocate for Nonprofit Leader

She founded We Are Ill, a community-focused patient advocacy organization, in 2020. The seeds were planted in 2017, with the hashtag #WeAreIllmatic, putting a new spin on the face of illness.

Being a voice for others struggling was not something the Howard University graduate planned on. “I started off as simply a patient advocate telling my personal story, so I had no idea I would start a nonprofit,” she said.

We Are Ill helps to bring the community together. They host an annual Wellness Weekend that brings community members together.

They are expanding their efforts to offer insights on lupus and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, two other conditions that disproportionately affect Black women. “We’re always trying to make sure that patient care is patient-centered,” said Reese Brathwaite.

Why Creating Community is Essential

People form friendships with those who understand they may need to cancel a dinner due to fatigue and are unfazed by sudden spasms. “Providing social connectedness by community and fellowship that has proven to lead to better health outcomes,” she said. “Underrepresentation can impact healthcare access and hence result in poorer health outcomes in these populations,” according to the International Journal for Equity in Health.

How We Are Ill Provides Support

Patient advocacy organizations can serve as connective tissue between the public and the services developed by healthcare firms. Reese Brathwaite noted that resources can be difficult for patients to access if they cannot be found.

She noted that global corporations may not be as adept at communicating with those who need their support as they believe. “You have all these different departments, and so whoever is working in patient advocacy might not be working in marketing,” she said.

“We’re also dealing with patients who are dealing with their own lives and children, work, careers, spouses, and health conditions. And so, it is a lot to ask patients to go and find and seek out another thing,” she added.

They focus on showing up in the paths of those who need to learn. “We find them where they are.”

They Are Not a ‘Debbie Downer’ Community

Speakers at We Are Ill are briefed before engaging with the audience. The instructions are clear. Leave your pessimism at home. “We are not a ‘Debbie Downer’ community,” said Reese Brathwaite. “We get enough of that.” We Are Ill brings familiarity and glamour to learning about chronic illness. They include happy hours, spirited workout plans, and other activities that attendees might not expect at a healthcare conference. Attendees mill around in customized pilates socks and little black cocktail dresses. Speakers include Ashley Blaine Featherson and Jennifer Holliday.

“We are redefining what sick looks like,” she declared.

They promote living full lives by developing programming that focuses on what is possible, not what isn’t. “We had a session about intimacy and how we can help with intimacy issues, because that’s a big issue in our community,” she said.

Challenging Stereotypes About Black Women and Chronic Illness

Part of what We Are Ill does is challenge the stereotypes existing about Black women dealing with chronic illness. “When we talk about underrepresented and underserved communities, there’s an archetype that comes with it, and that is that everyone is low income, underinsured, uneducated,” she said. “We are actively dispelling that by making sure we’re tapping into our community and showing the representation accurately.”

Assuming that chronically ill Black women can only be located in particular places ensures that some of them will miss out on messages they need to hear to improve their lives.

“These community members are savvy, educated, well-informed,” she added. “They know their stuff. They just don’t trust the healthcare system.”

Stereotypes can work both ways. Medical mistrust due to medical gaslighting can cause Black women to put off seeking therapies that might improve their day-to-day pain. “When we’re not proactive about it, and we let it linger. We normalize it so much so that it is a part of our lifestyle, and it doesn’t have to be,” said Reese Brathwaite. “Proactivity saves lives.”

Being Black women, Reese Brathwaite and her growing team are uniquely positioned to address apprehensive patients. She knows they are speaking to her 25-year-old self in her work.

“We already understand some of the barriers that just exist naturally.”

Resources

Journal of Neurology

World Health Organization

CDC: Social Connection

International Journal for Equity in Health

The post Victoria Reese Brathwaite Is Reshaping Ideas About Chronic Illnesses appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Have you been newly diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)? Learn if a clinical trial is right for you. 

If you have been diagnosed with advanced or metastatic NSCLC or have a specific mutation in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene, the Copernicus clinical trial might be an option for you. The Copernicus clinical research study is evaluating the addition of an investigational medication to an oral medication and chemotherapy for NSCLC.  

What is a clinical research study, and why is it important?  

A clinical trial, also called a clinical research study, is a carefully designed scientific evaluation of an investigational medication. Clinical trials help doctors and researchers determine if an investigational medication is safe and/or effective for the treatment of a condition, disease, or disorder.  

Clinical trials are completely optional, and each one has a specific set of criteria a participant must meet to join. Clinical studies, conducted by doctors and researchers, often require a large number of volunteers to participate in a single study, and sometimes thousands are needed to obtain reliable information. 

What can I expect if I join a clinical trial?  

If you qualify and choose to join a clinical trial, you will first sign an informed consent form (ICF). “Informed Consent” is a process of information exchange before an adult agrees to participate in a clinical trial. During this process, you will be asked to read the ICF, and a study doctor or member of the research team will explain all the details of the study and answer your questions.  

By signing the ICF, you agree to volunteer to take part in the study, you understand the study procedures, risks, and potential side effects, and that you can leave the study at any time, for any reason. If you don’t understand what is expected of you or what is written in the document, you should continue to ask questions and talk with the study doctor, your family, or others that you trust, until you feel you understand. 

What is the purpose of the Copernicus study?  

The purpose of this clinical research study is to determine the safety and efficacy of the addition of an investigational medication in combination with another oral therapy or chemotherapy for adults who have been diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). 

Am I eligible for the Copernicus study?  

You may be able to participate in this study if you: 

• Are 18 years of age or older 

• Have been diagnosed with advanced or metastatic NSCLC 

• Have a specific mutation in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene 

Additional eligibility criteria will apply and be assessed by the study doctor or staff during the screening process. Screening will occur prior to being enrolled in the study and receiving any investigational medication. Not all individuals may qualify to participate in the research. 

What can I expect if I join the Copernicus study?  

• If you qualify and choose to join the study and sign the informed consent form (ICF), you will be asked to attend a screening visit with the study doctor to ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. 

• Eligible patients will be placed in a study group. Participants will receive the investigational medication + oral study medication.  

• The oral study medication is taken once a day by mouth. The investigational medication is given as an injection under the skin. 

• The study medication will be given in recurring 28-day cycles. 

• At study clinic visits, participants will have their health evaluated through various health exams and tests. 

• Study participation may last up to about 3 years, as long as the participant wants to continue, and the study doctor believes it is safe. 

What is expected during my participation in the Copernicus study?  

Your study doctor and research staff will guide you throughout your participation in the study. However, you can expect the following general expectations:  

• Tell the study doctor/staff about any health problems you have during the study.  

• Come to all study visit appointments.  

• Ask the study doctor/staff any questions you have about the study. 

• Tell the study doctor/staff about any new medicine you take during the study, as well as any changes to your medicines.  

How do I learn more about participation in the Copernicus study? 

You can talk to your doctor to find out if you are a candidate for a clinical trial. Click here to visit the study page and learn more about the Copernicus study.   

Where can I go to learn more about NSCLC?  

There are several online resources available. For further information and research support groups, consider visiting the following websites. Consider asking your doctor if they can recommend local support groups near you.  

• CancerCare Lung Cancer Support: Access free, professional support services.  

• The American Lung Association: The patient and caregiver network is an online support program that offers access to resources 

This article is brought to you by Janssen. 

The post Life After a Lung Cancer Diagnosis appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC), led by President Anthony Fletcher, MD, is confronting this crisis through its Every Heart Counts: ABC Cardiology Deserts Campaign.

What Are Cardiology Deserts

Dr. Fletcher describes a cardiology desert as “a community where people don’t have reliable, timely access to cardiologists or preventive cardiovascular care.” These deserts exist in both rural and urban settings. In rural areas, patients may travel long distances to see a specialist, while in cities, socioeconomic barriers and overburdened health systems often block access.

Barriers Beyond Distance

Even proximity to a clinic does not guarantee care. A recent ABC survey found that:

• One in four adults must travel 10 to 20 miles to see a heart specialist, particularly in Louisiana, Arkansas, Georgia, and Mississippi.
• Twenty two percent of respondents said they tried but could not secure a cardiology appointment.
• Nearly one in five Black adults have never received a basic heart screening.

Knowledge gaps add to the challenge. Forty percent of Americans surveyed had no prior awareness of the two major types of cholesterol. HDL is commonly referred to as good cholesterol, and LDL is commonly referred to as bad cholesterol. Among Black respondents, that number rose to 54 percent. Only about one third of adults know their own cholesterol levels.

Changing Perceptions Through Trusted Voices

Dr. Fletcher notes that heart health involves more than treatment after a diagnosis; prevention is essential. Survey findings show that one in five adults believe they do not need heart care, with an emphasized prevalence among older adults, rural residents, and women. In response, ABC works with local leaders, churches, and community organizations to encourage screenings and preventive care. Fletcher explains that these community voices help make heart health feel safe and achievable.

Supporting Primary Care Providers

In many under-resourced areas, primary care providers are the only option for heart health. ABC equips them with training, tools, and resources to identify risks earlier and connect patients to appropriate care. With seed sponsorship support from Amgen, the campaign is already active in Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi, states where the need for preventive care is most urgent.

Building Long Term Change

For communities historically excluded from heart health conversations, long term change means breaking cycles of crisis care. ABC’s goal is to move from emergency interventions to sustained, equitable access to preventive screenings and education that reflect lived experiences.

A Call to Black Families

The numbers are shocking, nearly one in five Black adults have never received a cardiovascular screening. That means millions may be living with hidden risks. Dr. Fletcher urges families to learn their heart health history, schedule annual screenings, and regularly check blood pressure and cholesterol. These simple steps, he says, “can be lifesaving.”

Cardiology deserts are a national crisis, but they do not have to be permanent. With trusted voices and equitable access, ABC’s Every Heart Counts campaign is working to ensure that every heart truly counts.

Resources:

Association of Black Cardiologists – Saving the hearts and minds of a diverse america

FILE_4757.pdf

Missing Coordinates: America’s Cardiology Deserts | Amgen

The post Every Heart Counts: Tackling Cardiology Deserts appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Dyson joined Tamar Braxton and others for a panel called Breaking the Silence, presented by ViiV Healthcare, earlier this year to raise awareness of the HIV epidemic, the taboos and stigmas around prevention, and the importance of mental health.

Taboo & Stigma in Communities of Color

Dr. Dyson believes the other reason that we don’t hear as much about HIV is because of the communities that are impacted. “Communities of color, in particular, struggle with talking about sexuality, sex, and sexual health in positive ways,” she said.

“A third thing would be stigma, not just around the HIV diagnosis itself, and just in general, like it’s a barrier. I often tell people, HIV is not actually what’s going to cause someone you know to lose life; it’s actually going to be the stigma,” Dr Dyson continues.

“Because you have this stigma that prevents you from seeking care. Sometimes there’s a stigma that prevents you from seeking prevention options.”

Forty Years of HIV Advancements

There is fear for many surrounding HIV because they can recall the early years of the disease when those diagnosed had short life spans. But things have changed. “We’ve come to a place now, 40 years later, where we have good antiretroviral therapy, so people who are living with HIV can thrive and do well on antiretroviral therapy, on their medications, and as long as they’re on medicine and achieving undetectable viral loads,” Dr. Dyson said.

Bianca Ordoñez said, “Part of it is the stories we hear about people with HIV.” “In news stories, we usually see the trauma, the fear, the shame, the moment of that diagnosis, how it destroyed a person’s life. And while that can be true, and while that can be part of the story, it’s not the full story,” she explained.

For example, I’m in a sero discordant relationship, which means that I’m HIV positive and my husband is HIV negative,”  Ordoñez said. “Together, we have a beautiful, healthy, HIV negative baby girl. So when telling the story of people living with HIV, I would really rather you guys include HIV as a comma instead of a period.”

Why Tamar Braxton is So Vocal About HIV and HIV Prevention

We know that a lot of what Tamar Braxton does is unplanned, and that was the case with her viral Snapchat video. She told the crowd at NABJ.

“I had no idea that going on my Snapchat, figuring out if someone I was dating was 100,000 other people. It just so happened to go viral, helping this sister feel less alone. To help her understand that her purpose is for a purpose.”

But she also mentioned the media’s obsession with clickbait. “We like stories that are going to get traction. But the truth is, a journalist’s job is to bring the news and what is not news about HIV and HIV prevention. So I’m here to help normalize these conversations and make people less uncomfortable about them,” she said

“Why not speak about something important to our community, and that is important to me now, and I mean, I’m going to show up here every time, and so this is a normalized conversation. Having uncomfortable conversations doesn’t make you different; it makes you strong and powerful.”

The singer mentioned data Dr. Dyson shared: at the end of 2023, only 11% of Black folks who could benefit from HIV prevention had received it, whereas 70% of their white counterparts received it. “That’s news. That’s important information to share in the community.”

Mental Health Must Be Included in the HIV Conversation

Yolo Akili Robinson from The Black Emotional Mental Health Collective shared some of the ways they teach in the community. “We have what we call healing circles. So while we think it’s very important to have individual care, you sometimes need to sit in a one-on-one situation. What we do is create collective spaces led by wellness practitioners, therapists, psychiatrists, and other professionals with different healing modalities,” he said.

“And we say, bring your mama, your cousin, your uncle, all them, because we’re going to learn about grief. We’re going to learn about trauma. We’re going to learn about HIV stigma together, as opposed to in these individualized scenarios. We’re going to learn how to process and reframe our emotions together,” Robinson said.

Communities need to be able to move through the uneducation and grief and feel safe.

Caption opening image: Our incredible panelists captured after an inspiring discussion (from left to right): Justin Carter (moderator), Bianca Ordoñez, Tamar Braxton, Yolo Akili Robinson, and Dr. Alftan Dyson. Photo courtesy of ViiV Healthcare.

The post Yes, HIV is Still an Epidemic in 2025 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 10% of people with type 2 diabetes are of normal weight. That means weight alone does not determine your risk.

We May Need to Adjust Our Understanding of What Healthy Means

This misconception is so common that researchers say it’s time to rethink our understanding of “healthy.” “Being at a healthy weight may not necessarily be healthy,” said Arch Mainous, a professor of health services research, management, and policy at the University of Florida. “We have some strong data that says we need to rethink our model of what we think is healthy. This may require a paradigm shift so that we’re not just looking for diabetes in the overweight and obese.”

Even before type 2 diabetes develops, many normal-weight people enter a stage called prediabetes. This is where blood glucose levels are elevated but not yet in the diabetes range. This stage can last for years without symptoms. However, prediabetes still damages the body and raises the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes later on.

Understanding Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it to regulate blood sugar. Insulin’s job is to help glucose get into your cells for energy. When insulin does not work properly, blood sugar builds up in the bloodstream.

Over time, uncontrolled blood sugar can lead to:

• Heart disease
• Kidney damage
• Nerve damage
• Vision problems

Understanding your risk beyond weight is crucial.

Why Normal-Weight People Still Develop Type 2 Diabetes

1. Genetics Family history is one of the strongest predictors.

•  One parent with diabetes:40% risk
•  Both parents with diabetes: 70% risk

Keep in mind that genetics can override body size. Additionally, certain ethnic groups also carry a higher genetic risk regardless of weight. This includes African Americans, South Asians, Native Americans, and Hispanics.

2. Visceral Fat (“TOFI”—Thin Outside, Fat Inside)

You can look thin on the outside and still carry harmful visceral fat around the organs. This hidden fat produces inflammatory chemicals that lead to insulin resistance. Simply, this means a person can weigh less but still be metabolically unhealthy.

3. Sedentary Lifestyle

Even when you are at a normal weight, being inactive affects how your body processes glucose. As Mainous put it: “Saying that sitting is the new smoking sounds trite, but there’s a certain level of truth to it.” The lack of bodily movement reduces insulin sensitivity, ultimately making blood sugar harder to regulate.

4. Diet

A thin body does not protect you from the effects of:

•  Sugary drinks
•  Refined carbs
• Processed foods

These foods spike blood sugar and force the pancreas to work overtime. This can gradually lead to insulin resistance, regardless of your weight.

5. Age

As we age, our metabolism slows and insulin sensitivity decreases. That’s why the American Diabetes Association recommends routine screening beginning at age 35, regardless of weight.

6. Gestational Diabetes

Even thin, healthy women can develop diabetes during pregnancy. Nearly half of the women who experience gestational diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes later in life.

What You Can Do — Despite Size and Prediabetes

•  Ask for blood sugar screening (A1C)
• Move regularly, even 10-minute walks
• Improve diet quality, not just calorie count
• Know your family history
• Watch for symptoms, no matter your weight

Since prediabetes is silent and can occur at any body size, experts stress that everyone should know their numbers. A simple A1C test can detect prediabetes early, which is when lifestyle changes are most effective.

The bottom line: Your health is not defined by the number on the scale; it is what is happening beneath the surface that matters the most. The real question is: what is happening beneath yours?

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Can people with normal weight get type 2 diabetes

American Diabetes Association: Prediabetes

American Diabetes Association: Early Screening and Risk Monitoring

Gestational Diabetes

The post Are You Too Thin to Have Prediabetes? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Let’s break down the myths and get to the facts.

Myth 1: Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes develops from a mix of genetics, insulin resistance, and lifestyle factors. Insulin resistance means your body doesn’t respond well to insulin, the hormone that helps move sugar from your blood into your cells. Eating a lot of sugar doesn’t directly cause diabetes, but it can contribute to weight gain, which increases your risk. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) confirms that excess calories from any source, not just sugar, can lead to obesity, a major risk factor.

FACT: Sugar doesn’t cause diabetes, but too much of it can raise your risk if it leads to weight gain.

Myth 2: Type 1 diabetes is more serious than type 2.

Both types are serious and require lifelong management. Type 1 is an autoimmune condition and is usually diagnosed in childhood. Type 2 diabetes is more common and often linked to lifestyle, but both can lead to complications like kidney failure, heart disease, and vision loss if not managed properly. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) emphasizes that neither type should be minimized.

FACT: All types of diabetes are serious and deserve proper care.

Myth 3: If you don’t take medication, your diabetes must not be that bad.

Some people manage type 2 diabetes with diet and exercise alone, especially early on. But diabetes can change over time. Even if you’re not on medications now, that could shift later. Regular monitoring is key.

FACT: Medication isn’t a measure of severity. It’s one of many tools to manage diabetes.

Myth 4: Insulin cures diabetes.

Insulin helps control blood sugar, but it’s not a cure. There is currently no cure for diabetes, though research is ongoing. The ADA notes that insulin is essential for many people, but it’s part of a broader management plan.

FACT: Insulin is a treatment, not a cure.

Myth 5: You’ll eventually lose your sight or limbs if you have diabetes.

Complications are real, but they’re not inevitable. With regular checkups, blood sugar control, and healthy habits, many people with diabetes live full lives without major complications.

FACT: Managing your diabetes can help prevent serious complications.

Myth 6: You can’t eat dessert if you have diabetes.

You can enjoy sweets in moderation. The key is balance. If you’re having cake, cut back on other carbs that day. The Joslin Diabetes Center recommends counting desserts as part of your total carbohydrate intake.

FACT: Dessert isn’t off-limits. It just needs to fit into your overall carb count.

Myth 7: Carbs such as bread and pasta are off-limits.

Carbohydrates are part of a healthy diet. The trick is portion control and choosing whole grains when possible. The ADA encourages people with diabetes to include carbs thoughtfully, not avoid them entirely.

FACT: You can eat carbs. Just be mindful of portions and pair them with fiber and protein.

Myth 8: Certain foods like grapefruit or cabbage soup burn fat.

There’s no magic food that melts fat. Only a calorie deficit and physical activity lead to weight loss. The National Institutes of Health confirms that while some foods may slightly boost metabolism, they don’t cause fat loss.

FACT: No food burns fat. Exercise and balanced eating do.

Myth 9: Eating after 8 p.m. causes weight gain.

It’s not about the clock. It’s about how much you eat and how active you are overall. The CDC notes that late-night eating only leads to weight gain if it pushes your daily calories over your needs.

FACT: Timing doesn’t cause weight gain. Extra calories do.

Myth 10: Skipping meals helps you lose weight.

Skipping meals can backfire, especially for people with diabetes. It can lead to overeating later or dangerous blood sugar drops. That drop is called hypoglycemia, and it can cause symptoms that include shakiness, confusion, dizziness, or even fainting. The ADA warns that skipping meals can increase your risk of hypoglycemia if you’re on insulin or other medications.

FACT: Eating regular, balanced meals supports better blood sugar and appetite control.

Myth 11: Managing diabetes means you have to follow a super restrictive diet.

Diabetes requires thoughtful eating, but that doesn’t mean your meals have to be bland or joyless. You don’t need to cut out entire food groups. Instead, focus on portion control, choosing whole grains over refined carbs, and pairing carbohydrates with fiber, protein, or healthy fats to slow down blood sugar spikes.

The CDC also recommends building meals around foods you enjoy, using smart swaps, and consistent meal timing. Restrictive diets often backfire. They can lead to frustration or binge eating. A sustainable approach includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and even occasional treats, just planned with intention.

FACT: Diabetes management does involve boundaries, but it doesn’t mean cutting out everything you love. Smart planning and balance are key.

Managing diabetes isn’t about perfection. It’s about staying informed and refusing to let myths shape your care. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting a loved one, you deserve clear information and a plan that fits your life. The science continues to evolve, and so can your approach.

If you’ve heard these myths before, now you know better. If you’ve lived by them, now you can move forward with truth.

Resources:

National Diabetes Statistics Report | Diabetes | CDC

Know Your Facts About Diabetes | American Diabetes Association

What Is Diabetes? – NIDDK

Managing Diabetes During Rosh Hashanah | Joslin Diabetes Center

Dietary Supplements for Weight Loss – Consumer

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Weight | Healthy Weight and Growth | CDC

Causes and How to Prevent Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Glucose) | American Diabetes Association

Diabetes Meal Planning | Diabetes | CDC

The post Stop Believing These 11 Diabetes Myths appeared first on Black Health Matters.

This News Didn’t Come Out of Left Field

“It’s not the kind of news anyone wants to hear, but to be honest, prostate cancer has run through my family. My father had it. He had a lot of brothers; several of them had it. I would have been surprised if I hadn’t gotten it,” said the 73-year-old actor.

“I’ve got a 90-year-old first cousin, who’s still alive, actually; he had it. His son has it. A couple of his brothers had it. No one, as far as I know, has succumbed to it.”

The Statistics

According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, 1 in 6 Black men still develop prostate cancer and are more than twice as likely to die from the disease. The National Cancer Institute says that prostate cancer is highly heritable. Inherited factors cause up to 60% of prostate cancer risk. “Risk factors for prostate cancer include age, a family history of prostate cancer and other cancers, genetics, and ancestry (such as West African ancestry).” You can take a risk quiz here.

Because of His Family History, Pickens Began PSA Testing Early

Pickens’ dedication to his health may have helped catch his prostate cancer early. “I  started getting my annual physical 34 years ago. And I started my PSA testing when I was 41; I’m 73 now. My urologist said. ‘Because you were so diligent in that piece of your health, it was to your advantage. We were able to catch it so early because you were being tested.”

Pickens’ Diagnosis

In 2024, the actor went for his annual physical, which included checking his PSA levels.  He was referred to a urologist, who told him his numbers were still in the normal range, but they needed to check again in a year.

“I went back in January, and when my PSA numbers came back,  my primary said, ‘Yeah, you know what? It’s ticked up some more. I want to send you back to the urologist.” Pickens said.

“The urologist looked at him and said,” Yeah, there’s something here. Let’s do an MRI,’ which we did, and it revealed, as he called it,  something suspicious.”

They scheduled a biopsy, which revealed a tumor. A PET scan showed that the cancer had not spread and was isolated to one quadrant of the prostate.

His Treatment Choice

The Grey’s star had two options: radiation, or he could elect to do a radical prostatectomy. After weighing the options, he chose the latter. His radical prostatectomy was done robotically by two urologists. He stayed a day in the hospital afterward.

“We caught it really early, and so they thought that would be the best route to take.  I do have a rare variant that you don’t see very often. They wanted to err on the side of caution and keep an eye on it,” he said.

“It was rare enough that they wanted to make sure that they were crossing all the T’s and dotting all their I’s. But they hadn’t seen one that was detected as early as mine.”

Why He’s Sharing His Story

Pickens wants to remove the stigma that men have in talking about their health, especially prostate cancer. “Where we are and how we view the medical community, especially as African American men,” he points out.

“We know the history of that, and how far that goes back in terms of our trepidation about being tested, and getting something as simple as a physical.”

Years ago, the actor participated in a Black barbershop men’s health summit with Dick Gregory. The group targeted 50 cities to set up screenings at barbershops and offered free haircuts. In the process, they might get their blood pressure checked and brochures on prostate cancer and diabetes. He got the group to add his hometown, Cleveland, to the tour.

“We brought in a wonderful, bright, Black physician out of the DC area and his team. And we identified ten barbershops in the area where I lived. These brothers would come in and get a haircut,” Pickens said.  ”

We were able to get a blood pressure test and put something in their hand. And in more than one case, we would run into brothers who  had never had a physical.”

It’s Movember, A Time to Talk About Prostate Cancer

If you have ever noticed men growing out their facial hair in November, they are probably doing so in for Movember, in support of men’s health, among the major initiatives is prostate cancer.

“I recall when I was a kid, my dad was one of many brothers. I think he may have had seven, eight brothers. But I know at least four or five were still alive when I was a kid.  When one of them would fall ill, my dad would grow a mustache. And he’d grow a beard with it,” Pickens said.

“I remember asking, very clearly, like it was yesterday. I said, ‘Dad, why are you growing your beard like that? He said, I’m growing it for my brother who was sick.’ So there was a cultural piece to it as well.”

 

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Resources

Prostate Cancer Foundation

National Cancer Institute

Zero Prostate Cancer Risk Factors

Mayo Clinic: Prostatectomy

The post Grey’s Anatomy Doc Shares His Real-Life Health Diagnosis appeared first on Black Health Matters.

When you’re living with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), you are juggling a lot—from appointments to decision-making. And when the words “clinical trial” come up, it can be intimidating to understand and navigate what that means. However, clinical trials may be an option worth exploring. Understanding what they involve and how to talk to your doctor about them can turn those uncertainties into a part of your journey.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a study that tests medicines and other treatments to understand how and if they work and if they are safe enough to be offered to qualifying patients. Participating in a study can sound intimidating at first, but some things you’ve heard about clinical trials may be popular misconceptions.

One of the biggest misconceptions about clinical trials is that they’re only available for patients as a last resort. That is simply untrue. A lot of trials are available to patients even before standard treatments have been tried. Even more, some clinical trials are available to healthy adults.

What’s it like to participate in a clinical trial?

Clinical trials treat patients as partners in the process, with rights, protections, and full control over their decision to join—or to leave at any point.

The process of joining a clinical trial usually begins with a screening phase which involves reviewing medical history, scans, and lab tests, and sometimes checking for specific genetic markers that are especially relevant. Participants are given detailed paperwork and consent forms that explain what the trial involves, any possible risks, and potential benefits. You’re encouraged to ask all of your most pressing questions during this time, so you can fully understand what will take place. If a participant qualifies and chooses to enroll, a baseline assessment follows—blood tests, physical exams, etc. This helps the researchers understand any changes that happen during the trial.

Once you’ve officially begun the clinical trial, the experience is very hands-on with frequent check-ups, imaging scans, lab work, and any other necessary tests. You’ll also be monitored closely for any side effects. You may be encouraged to continue standard treatments while receiving the study drug or procedure. Being surrounded by so many resources, you may find that you have even more access to doctors and nurses than before. For caregivers, this can mean reassurance that their loved one is being cared for and that any concerning changes will be addressed quickly. This also means that participation requires a level of commitment. Participants are expected to show up for appointments and clinic visits, and depending on the treatment, some lifestyle adjustments are necessary.

What can caregivers expect from a clinical trial?

For caregivers, encouragement, organization, and support are the top expectations. Anything from helping your loved one make and attend appointments, processing information they’re receiving, and supporting them through the ups and downs. The journey can be tiring, but it can also feel purposeful, knowing you are both part of something that may help with the progress of medicines.

Are clinical trials available for lung cancer patients?

Certainly. Clinical trials happen throughout the calendar year. Doctors and scientists are committed to finding and learning about the options for ailments and are often looking for eligible participants. However, there are specific clinical trials available to those diagnosed with NSCLC. Learn more about a J&J NSCLC clinical trial here.

Clinical trials are also a powerful way to support equity in healthcare. For Black communities, taking an active role in NSCLC trials can help ensure medical advancements reflect the needs of all patients. Together, we can reduce health disparities in lung cancer outcomes.

There are many clinical trials ongoing for NSCLC. A J&J clinical trial is currently recruiting adults living with NSCLC to participate in a study. Click here to learn more about it and see if you qualify.

This article is sponsored by Johnson & Johnson

The post Facing the Unknown: What it’s Like to Participate in a Clinical Trial appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What followed changed everything. The pace of her days. The demands on her body. Her sense of control. But now she’s telling the story herself. She’s a breast cancer survivor, and she’s still here.

The Moment She Feared Had Arrived

Toks had gone years without a full mammogram. Between breastfeeding and the demands of daily life, it stayed on the back burner. After several reminders, her OBGYN became more direct and told her it was time to stop waiting. So, she went.

During the scan, doctors found calcifications. These are tiny calcium deposits that can form in breast tissue. While often harmless, certain patterns can signal early signs of cancer. A biopsy confirmed it in August 2022.

“I was told I had stage zero triple negative breast cancer,” she said.

Triple-negative breast cancer is one of the most aggressive types. According to the American Cancer Society, it grows quickly and does not respond to hormone therapies because it lacks three common receptors. That limits treatment options and increases the risk of recurrence. Within three weeks, her cancer had already advanced to stage one.

Toks had always feared cancer. It ran deep on her mother’s side with diagnoses across generations. Her father’s side, rooted in Nigeria, had fewer known cases, though she believes there may have been more that went unnamed. So when the biopsy confirmed triple-negative breast cancer, she wasn’t shocked.

“I had been terrified to get cancer my whole life,” she said. “I was almost relieved, honestly, to just know which one it was and get it done.”

Then Came the Reality Check

At just 46 years old, Toks had to shift into survival mode. In September, weeks after her diagnosis, she began treatment with a lumpectomy and radiation. A lumpectomy removes the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue. But when the pathology came back, the margins were not clear. That meant cancer cells were still present at the edges. She would need more surgery and chemotherapy.

Before starting chemo, she tried one round of egg fertilization. She and her husband had hoped for a second child. But her gynecologist stepped in.

“He’s like, stop it. Triple negative moves so quickly you’re gonna die,” she said. “I was like, okay, all right, Jesus.”

From Lumpectomy to Mastectomy

After another surgery with no clean margins, her oncological surgeon recommended a mastectomy. A mastectomy removes the entire breast to prevent further spread. Toks chose to remove both.

“She was like, listen, none of this is showing in any of the imaging we did,” she recalled. “We’re not seeing any of what we’re taking out of your body, so it’s making us really nervous.”

She began chemotherapy in early November, just after wrapping Fatal Attraction. The treatment was intense. Every three weeks, she returned for another round.

“I did four rounds of very strong chemo,” said Toks. “A week after I stopped chemo, I started working on Frasier.”

To help protect her hair, she used cold capping. The process involves cooling the scalp during chemotherapy to reduce hair loss, and it worked. Toks was able to keep about 50 percent of her hair.

The Circle That Held Her

Toks kept working, not to prove anything, but because it helped her feel like herself. Work was also essential to Tok’s healing.

“My husband was picking me up from work. My mother was dropping me off,” she said. “I had tons of people helping me carry things. That was a little difficult because I couldn’t carry my kid for a really long time.”

Her sister, best friend, and nanny helped care for her son. Insurance paperwork was handled by her financial manager. On set, her team made space for her to rest when she needed it.

“Sometimes I was like, I need to go upstairs and just rest for 25 minutes,” she said. “And they’d be like, yeah, no worries, we’ll make time for you.”

Parenting Through Treatment

While navigating surgeries and chemotherapy, Toks was also parenting a young child. Her son was still small and still used to their routines. She had to explain why things were changing, why she couldn’t carry him, why their time together looked different.

“We used to call my boobs my boo boos,” she said. “I said, so we can’t do boo boo time anymore, and he was sad, but he understood.”

She approached those conversations with honesty and compassion. She didn’t hide what was happening, but she didn’t overwhelm him either.

“I keep in mind that my kid is new here,” she explained. “I don’t put things on him that he doesn’t deserve.”

Her son responded with kindness. He would come in to chat, then tuck her into bed.

“He’d be like, Mommy, you need your rest,” he’d say.

She believes children know when something is wrong, even if no one tells them.

“I feel like you’re actually just making them more scared and anxious because they don’t know what the thing is,” she said.

Rest Is a Right

Toks spoke directly to the pressure Black women face to keep going no matter what. She spoke about how Black communities are among the most capable in the world.

“Especially Black women. We are versatile, good at problem solving and hard working. And we are insanely intelligent.”

She knows how deeply that pressure can affect health.

“One of the reasons that Black people get sick so much is that we don’t rest,” she said. “We have to stop believing the myth that rest equals laziness.”

A Community Lifeline

For Toks, healing was never just about her body. It was about being part of something larger. She spoke openly about the realities Black people face, and the strength that comes from community.

“I feel like Black people are placed in a position of being stressed out and not being able to give our families what they need,” she said. “We are placed in a position of not being able to live in clean areas, not being able to afford healthy food, not being able to afford health care, not being able to afford to take time off work.”

She named the systems that create those conditions. But she also named the power our communities hold.

“I think that we need to start talking to each other,” she said. “We need to start asking questions. We need to start sharing information.”

Advocacy Begins with Access

Toks now works with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. She is using her voice to push for better access, better care, and better outcomes for Black women.

“Almost half of the women who are diagnosed with breast cancer are going to be Black women,” she said. “And one of the reasons for that is the disparity in what is available to us. We are placed in a position of being stressed out and not being able to give our families what they need.”

She has seen the consequences of delayed care and poor insurance firsthand. People she loves have waited far too long for the imaging and procedures they needed. She knows how quickly diseases can spread and how dangerous those delays can be.
She encourages people to ask questions, share what they learn, and help each other navigate the system.

“You need to figure out, as young as you possibly can, what your plan for your health care is,” she said. “If you’re going to somebody and you don’t feel heard, or you feel dismissed, or you feel like you can never get an appointment, find somebody else.”

And she wants Black women to know they matter.

“You need to see yourself and your life as precious,” she said. “We take care of so many other people. We have to be healthy too. Otherwise, we can’t take care of everybody else.”

Resources:

Triple-negative Breast Cancer | Details, Diagnosis, and Signs | American Cancer Society

Breast Cancer Research Foundation | BCRF

Will Scalp Cooling Save Your Hair During Cancer Treatment?

The post Actress & Activist Toks Olagundoye on Surviving Breast Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Despite these realities, Black patients are underrepresented in clinical research for systemic sclerosis. Lack of representation often leads to a gap in information and what researchers understand about how new treatments work in various groups.

The DAISY trial is studying an investigational medicine in patients with systemic sclerosis. Eligible patients must be at least 18 years of age, have been diagnosed with systemic sclerosis in the last six years, and are either not taking medication for it or receiving stable doses of certain medications. Click here to learn more about this research study.

Participating in DAISY is optional. You can change your mind and opt out at any time.

Systemic Sclerosis in the Black Community

Systemic sclerosis may be rare, but its impact is felt deeply in Black communities. Studies show that Black patients are:

• More likely to be diagnosed at a younger age
• More likely to experience severe disease
• At higher risk of lung involvement, which can make breathing difficult
• Less likely to receive timely diagnosis and treatment

These disparities don’t just happen by chance. They are rooted in a variety of barriers to care, delayed diagnoses, and a lack of representation in research. Clinical trials promote quality care for those who qualify, regardless of their background.

What the DAISY Trial Is About

Clinical trials are part of the research process that explores experimental treatments and determines if they are safe and effective. There are specific criteria that the trial clinical team will review with you to see if DAISY is the right fit.

If you qualify and choose to take part, you won’t be left to navigate the journey alone. You’ll be supported by a team of medical staff who will answer your questions, monitor your health, and guide you step by step.

The results from this clinical trial could help people living with systemic sclerosis in the future.

Building Trust

It’s natural to have questions or doubts about clinical trials. There are built-in safety measures to ensure the clinical trial process is safe for those eligible to participate. Today’s trials have strict safety standards designed to protect participants.

Clinical trials are not just about science. Your experiences matter. Your participation helps researchers understand, and you contribute to closing the knowledge gap. You also help ensure that treatments are developed with the insight needed to make certain Black patients are represented in the data.

Take the Next Step

Living with systemic sclerosis can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Others are walking this path with you. Participation is always your choice.

If you or someone you love has been recently diagnosed with systemic sclerosis, the DAISY clinical trial may be an opportunity worth exploring. Click here to learn more, take the screener, and find out if the DAISY trial is right for you.

Content sponsored by AstraZeneca.

References:

• National Scleroderma Foundation
• American College of Rheumatology
• National Scleroderma Foundation

The post Black Representation in Systemic Sclerosis Research appeared first on Black Health Matters.

For Black patients, research shows that lupus is more common, more severe, and diagnosed at younger ages compared to other groups. Additionally, Black patients are at greater risk for worse outcomes when lupus attacks the kidneys.

IRIS is a clinical trial evaluating an investigational drug in patients living with lupus nephritis. You may be eligible to participate if you are at least 18 years of age, have been diagnosed with lupus nephritis, and are taking medication to treat it.

Clinical trial participation offers a pathway for those eligible to access a potential new treatment while receiving regular check-ups and assistance in managing their condition. Click here to learn more about a new clinical trial for people with lupus nephritis. Remember that taking part in a clinical trial is always voluntary, and you can opt out at any time.

Why Representation Matters in Research

When it comes to lupus nephritis, representation in clinical trials has been limited. Historically, Black patients have been underrepresented in research despite being disproportionately affected by the disease. This lack of representation creates a significant health gap.

By participating in clinical trials like IRIS, Black patients help researchers better understand how the study medications may affect those who take them. Every participant adds valuable information. Your voice, your experience, and your journey truly matter in shaping the future of lupus care.

Understanding the IRIS Trial

The IRIS clinical trial is studying an investigational treatment for lupus nephritis. The goal is to determine how this treatment affects individuals living with lupus nephritis.

If you qualify and choose to join the study, you’ll be cared for by a dedicated medical team throughout the entire study. Your health and safety will always be our top priority. The doctors and staff will explain the process, answer your questions, and guide you at every step.

Taking part in a clinical trial is always voluntary. If you decide to join IRIS, you’ll not only have the potential to benefit personally but also contribute collectively to the advancement of lupus care.

Trust the Process

It’s no secret that many in the Black community carry deep concerns about clinical research. Today, clinical trials are governed by strict safety rules, and protecting participants is the top priority.

Additionally, the IRIS study team understands that lupus nephritis does not affect everyone equally. By working with patients from different backgrounds, they are committed to making sure the research reflects the real-world experiences of Black communities.

When you participate, you are supported and cared for by a dedicated team throughout the process.

Consider Clinical Trials

Choosing to take part in research is a powerful step. For you, it may mean access to new treatments and closer monitoring of your condition. For the community, it means helping ensure that future lupus nephritis therapies are designed with Black patients in mind.

If you or someone you love is living with lupus nephritis, now is the time to learn more about IRIS. To learn more about the IRIS study and see if you may qualify, click here to take the screener questionnaire.

Content sponsored by AstraZeneca

References:

• NIDDK Lupus Nephritis
• Lupus Foundation of America. What is lupus nephritis?

The post Why Clinical Trials Matter for Black Patients Living with Lupus Nephritis appeared first on Black Health Matters.

A Nonstop Schedule

Her fiancé Jesse Collins, who runs his eponymous production company, Jesse Collins Entertainment, has overseen mega events including the Super Bowl Halftime Show, the BET Awards, and more. Together, they’ve built careers on precision and performance.

“We both work hard and don’t always take care of ourselves the way we should,” she explained to People. “And sad to say, several of our friends have dropped dead of heart attacks because it’s a high-stress world. Jesse started his own company after his boss, John Cossette, died of a massive heart attack, so there’s always been that fear.”

So when she saw the post, she looked up the company and booked an appointment for the two of them.

Prenuvo’s scans range from $2,500 to $4,500, and appointments can take months to secure. Dionne booked two, one for herself and one for Jesse. At the time, she was more concerned about him.

They got scanned in March 2024. Jesse’s came back healthy. Unfortunately, Dionne did not.

Dionne Had No Symptoms

Her scan revealed a large mass in her right lung. The technician told her to contact a pulmonologist right away. A pulmonologist is a doctor who specializes in lung health, and even they were initially skeptical. Dionne had no symptoms. She didn’t smoke. It didn’t add up.

Still, she followed through. First came a chest X-ray, then a PET/CT scan. Unlike a regular scan, this one shows how tissues and organs are functioning, not just how they look. The results confirmed that the mass was active, and that meant cancer was likely. She was sent for a biopsy, where doctors removed a small piece of tissue to test under a microscope.

The diagnosis was confirmed by Dr. Graeme Rosenberg, a thoracic surgeon at USC. It was lung cancer, Stage 3.

“Most lung cancers are found by accident in the non-smoking population,” Rosenberg told People.

During surgery, doctors found that the cancer had already reached one of Dionne’s lymph nodes. The spread was microscopic, too small to appear on scans, but it changed her diagnosis. She was officially considered stage 3, despite having no symptoms and no visible warning signs.

Her surgeon told her they had acted just in time. A few months later, the cancer might have moved further, limiting her treatment options or removing them altogether.

“If you had found this six months later, we’d be talking about how to make the rest of your life comfortable,” Dionne recalled being told. “I would’ve died, for sure.”

She underwent robotic-assisted surgery using the Da Vinci system, which resulted in part of her lung being removed. The operation was a turning point. It gave her a chance to recover before the cancer could spread further.

Why Lung Cancer Gets Missed

Dionne’s story isn’t rare. It’s just rarely caught. Lung cancer is still widely seen as a smoker’s disease, but that assumption leaves too many people overlooked. According to the American Cancer Society, early-stage lung cancer often comes without symptoms. And when signs do appear, they’re easy to dismiss. A lingering cough. A little wheezing. Fatigue that feels like stress. For Dionne, there was nothing. No warning. Just a scan that saw what she couldn’t feel.

If There Had Been a Sign

Some of the earliest signs of lung cancer can include:

• A persistent cough.
• Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or laughing.
• Shortness of breath or wheezing.
• Hoarseness or voice changes.
• Frequent respiratory infections.
• Unexplained fatigue or weight loss.

Dionne had none of these. No cough, no fatigue, no unexplained weight loss. By all accounts, she was fine until the scan said otherwise.

Recovery Wasn’t Pretty

The surgery was successful, but the recovery was difficult. Dionne, known for her independence and Type-A energy, had to rely on her mother for basic care. “My mom having to help me in the bathroom and wipe me was insane,” she recalled. Her fiancé Jesse became her full-time support system, keeping everything running while she healed. “It was amazing how he instantly went into support mode. Nothing mattered besides making sure I was okay and got through this.”

Instead of chemotherapy, Dionne qualified for a targeted drug therapy. She swallows one pill daily and schedules lung scans every six months. So far, everything has been clear.

In April 2025, Dionne ran the Paris Marathon. It was her way of reclaiming her body and her life.

“I was like, ‘I’m going to run this Paris marathon,'” she said, “just to prove to myself that I could, a year after my surgery and with [only a portion] of my right lung.”

From Survivor to Advocate

Now, Dionne is working with Rosenberg to launch a foundation focused on early lung cancer detection. She also got the chance to thank Kardashian directly. Her team reached out, and Kardashian responded with a post and a kind message. For Dionne, it was a meaningful moment. She told People that the post had ultimately led to her diagnosis and treatment, and she considers it life-saving.

A Warning to Black Women

The experience reshaped how Dionne thinks about health and visibility. She had always pushed through, showing up even when rest might have served her better. But this time, she paused and listened to her body. And it made all the difference.

Resources:

Emmy Producer Discovers Stage 3 Cancer After Prenuvo Body Scan (Exclusive)

Comprehensive whole body MRI scan for preventative care | Prenuvo

Lung Cancer Signs & Symptoms | American Cancer Society

The post A Full Body Scan Found Lung Cancer & Saved Her Life appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What is an Endemic?

Harvard’s Hanage said, “It certainly has a sort of social definition — a virus that’s around us all the time — and if you want to take that one, then we’re definitely there.”

He told NPR, “Endemic doesn’t necessarily mean good,” he said. “Tuberculosis is endemic in some parts of the world, and malaria is endemic in some parts of the world. And neither of those is a good thing.”

In other words, just because COVID-19 is something we have gotten used to, it doesn’t mean we don’t have to take precautions. This is true especially if we are going to interact with vulnerable populations.

Here are 11 things you need to know about COVID-19 and the vaccine:

The New Variants Keep Coming

1. The dominant variant in the United States is”XFG” Stratus.

Stratus was first detected in the United States in March. Still, it took months for it to overtake Nimbus “NB.1.18.1. “Stratus has been around in Southeast Asia since January of this year, and came to the United States around the spring,” explains Dr. Magdalena Sobieszczyk, chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center.  Symptoms of the Stratus variant are:

• headache
• fever
• “razor blade” sore throat
• cough
• runny nose
• congestion
• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

2. The 2025 vaccine should be effective against the Stratus variant.

Dr. Sobbieszcyk points out that the currently available COVID-19 vaccine updated for the 2025-2026 season targets a strain called LP.8.1, which is closely related to the predominant strain. “We expect that the vaccine should be effective at protecting against severe disease, and there are no new concerns about safety or efficacy,” she said.

There Are Three COVID Boosters

3. There are three COVID boosters available. 

In August, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved new COVID boosters that you can get from  Moderna, Pfizer, and Novavax.  Each of them targets the descendants of the omicron variant.

4. A new study shows a COVID-19 vaccine booster will protect you against severe infection.

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reports that getting a COVID vaccine booster could be life-saving, no matter your age. Last season’s mRNA COVID vaccine reduced people’s risk of emergency department visits by 29 percent, hospitalizations by 39 percent, and death by 64 percent. The study authors said the vaccine was effective across all age groups, and in people with and without chronic conditions.

Here’s What You Should Know About Getting Vaccinated

5.  Clinicians offer these guidelines on who should get vaccinated.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) both recommend that babies six to 23 months be vaccinated. The AAP recommends a risk-based strategy for children ages two through 18. Parents can vaccinate their children if they like, but they recommend vaccination if their child has diabetes or asthma, for example. The AAFP recommends that adults 18 and older be vaccinated. Individuals 65 and over must be vaccinated because they are still more likely to be hospitalized and die from COVID-19.

6. Some people will feel side effects from their COVID-19 booster.

They can last up to two days. These are short-term mild or moderate vaccine reactions that resolve without complication or injury.  The side effects include pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, fever, and chills.

7. If you’ve recently had COVID-19, you can still get a COVID booster, but you need to wait. 

According to Penn Medicine, anyone who has had a recent COVID-19 infection should wait three weeks after recovery before getting the latest booster. Timing may be different, however, if you are immunocompromised. Please speak with your HCP.

Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine May Cost Money If You Don’t Have Insurance, But There Are Resources Available

8. The COVID-19 vaccine is no longer free.

The Bridge Access Program, which made COVID-19 vaccines and treatments free for those who were underinsured or lacked insurance, was phased out in August 2024. If you have insurance, you are most likely covered. According to GoodRx, with coverage through Medicare and Medicaid, you should get the COVID-19 booster free of charge if an in-network provider administers it.

The vaccine booster, without insurance, can cost more than $200. Here are a few options and resources that can help:

• Go to GoodRx and search for a coupon.
• If you have children under age  19 and can’t afford it,  you may qualify for the Vaccines for Children Program.
• Try the Manufacturer’s Vax Assistance Programs, like Pfizer Retail Vax Assist

The COVID-19 Vaccine and Cancer

9. The 2025 vaccine is safe for people with cancer or who have been treated for cancer.

According to Mini Kamboj, MSK’s Chief Medical Epidemiologist, at Memorial Sloan Kettering, the COVID vaccine is recommended for people with cancer or who have been treated for it.  “The latest CDC estimates show that about 1 in 6 people hospitalized with severe COVID-19 have weakened immune systems. This can happen if you are getting cancer treatment or have a history of cancer. The COVID-19 vaccine protects you from getting very sick if you get the infection.”

10. The COVID mRNA vaccine sparks an immune response to fight certain cancers.

In an observational study published in Nature, researchers discovered patients with advanced skin or lung cancer, who received a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine within 100 days of starting immunotherapy, lived significantly longer than those who didn’t get the vaccine.

You Still Need to Stay Vigilant

11. In 2024, COVID-19 deaths fell out of the top ten.

According to NPR, COVID-19 slipped from the top ten causes of death last year. In 2020, it was number three; now it is number 15, according to the CDC. However, it was a factor in about 47,000 deaths in the United States in 2024.

If you have any preexisting conditions, are in frequent contact with someone who is immunocompromised, or is in their advanced years, ensure that you and they are vaccinated. We can’t afford to let our guards down. Even if you are healthy, chances are, everyone around you isn’t.

Resources

Harvard School of Public Health: Experts Say COVID-19 is endemic. What does that mean?

New York Presbyterian Hospital: What to Know About COVID Variant XFG (Stratus) and How to Protect Yourself

Memorial Sloan Kettering: 2025–2026 COVID-19 Vaccine for People With Cancer & Others With Weakened Immune Systems

Your Fall Vaccine Guide

Annual COVID Vaccines Protect People against Severe Disease, Even with Prior Immunity

Nature: SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines sensitize tumours to immune checkpoint blockade

VaccineInformation.org

The post 11 Things to Know About the COVID-19 Vaccines in 2025 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What Is COPD and Why Does It Matter

COPD is an umbrella term for lung diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It makes breathing harder over time, and there’s no cure.

• Emphysema damages the air sacs in the lungs, making it harder to take in oxygen.
• Chronic bronchitis causes swelling and mucus buildup in the airways, leading to a persistent cough and breathing difficulties.

In 2023, COPD was the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S., claiming over 141,000 lives, as reported by the CDC in its 2025 Data Brief.

To make matters worse, Black Americans are less likely to be diagnosed with COPD, even when they have symptoms. That means fewer chances for early treatment and more risk when pneumonia enters the picture.

The Dangerous Duo: COPD and Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs. For someone with COPD, pneumonia can be life-threatening. The lungs are already compromised, and the infection adds fuel to the fire. According to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 2025 report, pneumonia is one of the most common causes of hospitalization and death among people with COPD.

The pneumonia vaccine is an essential tool for managing COPD, yet it’s not reaching our community equally. That shortfall leads to more complications and more loss, as documented by the CHEST Foundation in 2023.

A Look at the Numbers

In 2023, the age-adjusted prevalence of COPD among Black adults was 3.5%, compared to 4.4% in White adults, according to the CDC. At first glance, that might seem like good news. But experts warn that underdiagnosis is a major issue in Black communities. A study published by the Journal of the COPD Foundation found that race and gender disparities are evident across all severities of airflow obstruction. In plain terms? Too many Black patients with COPD are left undiagnosed and unheard. And when pneumonia hits someone with undiagnosed COPD, the outcome can be devastating.

Why the Disparities?

These disparities reflect systems that haven’t been built with Black communities in mind. The gaps in care, diagnosis, and trust are real and reinforced in everyday clinical settings.

• Delayed diagnosis: Black patients are less likely to be referred for lung function tests. Symptoms are overlooked. Screenings get skipped. The result is missed opportunities for early treatment and a higher risk during flare-ups.
• Lower vaccination rates: Pneumonia and flu vaccines are essential for COPD management, but they are reaching Black adults at lower rates. That shortfall increases complications and leads to more hospital visits.
• Barriers to care access: Limited insurance coverage, long commutes to clinics, and under-resourced neighborhoods make accessing basic care more challenging. And once patients do reach the doctor, they often face shorter appointments, fewer referrals, and lower chances of seeing a specialist. As reported by Healthgrades, Black Americans with COPD are less likely to see a pulmonologist and more likely to be managed solely by primary care providers, where only 19% recommend pulmonary rehab, compared to 54% of specialists.
• Broken trust with health systems: Black patients have endured dismissal, bias, and neglect within medical spaces for decades. That history shows up in rushed visits, poor follow-up, and misdiagnoses. The system has earned mistrust. Rebuilding trust means delivering care that’s culturally competent, designed with equity in mind, and backed by accountability.

CHEST also reports that, over the last two decades, Black Americans have experienced the smallest decline in COPD mortality, just 0.7 per 100,000, compared to 5.5 among White Americans.

Spotting Pneumonia in COPD

COPD and pneumonia share similar symptoms, including cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue; however, they’re not interchangeable. For someone living with COPD, pneumonia can slip in, disguised as a routine flare-up. But sure signs stand out:

• Fever or chills: COPD rarely causes fever or chills. If it spikes, think infection.
• Sharp chest pain when breathing: Not typical of COPD alone.
• Sudden changes in mucus color or volume: Green or yellow may indicate an infection.
• Rapid breathing or heart rate: A sign the body’s under stress.
• Nausea, vomiting, or dizziness: Red flags like these often indicate that it’s more than just COPD.

Spirometry, also known as a lung function test, is often overlooked or misread in primary care. A 2024 study published in PLOS ONE found that many patients diagnosed with COPD were actually dealing with asthma or had normal lung function. At the same time, people who truly have COPD often go undiagnosed and face their symptoms without medical support, which raises the risk of serious complications like pneumonia being mistaken for a routine flare-up.

For caregivers and loved ones, noticing these changes can be the difference between early treatment and a dangerous spiral. You don’t need a medical degree, just awareness and trust in your instincts.

What You Can Do

If you or someone you love has a chronic cough, shortness of breath, or frequent respiratory infections, take it seriously. Ask your doctor about COPD and ensure that lung function testing is part of the conversation. Misdiagnosis can delay treatment and put lives at risk, especially when pneumonia is mistaken for something less urgent.

Get vaccinated against pneumonia and the flu, and lean on trusted resources like community clinics and health fairs for support. COPD and pneumonia continue to disproportionately affect our community. With awareness and advocacy, that reality can change. Breathing is a biological right, but too often it’s treated like a resource only some can afford to protect. Striving to know more is the first step in the right direction.

Resources

Products – Data Briefs – Number 528 – April 2025

2025 GOLD Report – Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease – GOLD

Partnering With the African American Community to Curb COPD – American College of Chest Physicians

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases | Journal of the COPD Foundation

COPD in Black Americans | Black People and COPD

Exploring the causes of COPD misdiagnosis in primary care: A mixed methods study | PLOS One

The post When Breathing Gets Harder (COPD and Pneumonia) appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Despite its alarming toll, lung cancer remains overlooked, under-screened, and underfunded. Black women have higher death rates despite lower smoking rates. While lung cancer rates are declining among men, they continue to rise in women. And it’s no longer just about smoking.

Why Lung Cancer Deserves More Attention

According to the American Lung Association, lung cancer causes more deaths than breast, colon, and pancreatic cancers combined. Yet public awareness remains low, and many women still believe they’re too young or too healthy to be at risk.

Black Americans are disproportionately affected. As reported by the American Cancer Society, systemic barriers in screening, diagnosis, and treatment contribute to worse outcomes, even though Black communities smoke less on average.

Here’s what every woman needs to know about lung cancer.

Lung Cancer Doesn’t Care How Old You Are

Many women in their 20s and 30s still believe lung cancer is an older person’s disease. But that’s not the full story. While most diagnoses occur between ages 55 and 65, women under 50 are now being diagnosed at higher rates than men in the same age group. In fact, women younger than 45 are more likely than men to develop lung cancer, according to a report published by the American Cancer Society.

You Don’t Have to Smoke to Be at Risk

Smoking remains the biggest risk factor, but it’s not the only one. According to the CDC, about 1 in 10 lung cancer cases occur in people who’ve never smoked. And women who’ve never smoked are still more likely than men to develop the disease. Exposure to radon, air pollution, and certain processed foods may also increase risk.

If you do smoke, quitting is still the most powerful step you can take. But don’t assume that being a nonsmoker means you’re in the clear.

Survival Rates Aren’t Improving Fast Enough

Here’s the good news: five-year survival rates have doubled, rising from 13% to 27%, according to the Lung Cancer Initiative. That’s thanks to better screening, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. But lung cancer still causes more deaths than any other cancer in the U.S.

Women with lung cancer often face worse outcomes than men, especially when diagnosed late. Symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other conditions. Watch for:

• A persistent cough.
• Shortness of breath.
• Hoarseness.
• Chest pain.
• Coughing up blood.

If something feels off, don’t wait.

You Might Need to Advocate for Screening

Low-dose CT scans can detect lung cancer early, before symptoms appear. But access and awareness remain uneven. Updated guidelines from the American Cancer Society now recommend screening for adults aged 50 to 80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history. Still, fewer than half of eligible people are getting screened.

If you’re at risk, ask your doctor directly. And if you’re uninsured or underinsured, look into community screening programs or patient navigators who can help.

Treatment Is Evolving and You Have Options

Today’s lung cancer care looks very different than it did even five years ago. Advances include:

• Targeted therapies for specific genetic mutations like KRAS, EGFR, and ALK.
• Immunotherapy that activates your immune system to fight cancer cells.
• Minimally invasive surgeries and robotic techniques that reduce recovery time.
• Same-day diagnosis and treatment in some centers, reducing delays.

If you’re diagnosed, your care team may recommend surgery, radiation, medication, or a combination. You may also qualify for a clinical trial offering cutting-edge treatments.

The Bottom Line

Lung cancer is still the deadliest cancer for women, but it doesn’t have to be. Awareness, early detection, and access to care can change the outcome. Whether you’re a smoker, a nonsmoker, young, or older, your risk is real, and your health is worth protecting.
If you’re concerned, speak up. If you’re eligible, get screened. And if you’re diagnosed, know that you are not alone, and you are not without options.

Resources:

Lung Cancer Trends Brief | American Lung Association

Cancer Disparities in the Black Community | American Cancer Society

Cancer Incidence Rate for Women Under 50 Rises Above Men’s | American Cancer Society

Lung Cancer Among People Who Never Smoked | Lung Cancer | CDC

ACS Cancer Updates 2025 | Lung Cancer Initiative

Lung Cancer Screening Guidelines | American Cancer Society

The post What Women Should Know About Lung Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Misdiagnoses Happen

At the 2025 NephCure Health Equity Conference, one mother explained what it was like when her son was misdiagnosed at age four. “He had swelling in his eyes, his stomach. He couldn’t open his eyes,” she said. “They gave him all these allergy tests, but we knew it was something different, so we went back.”

This time, the parents saw their son’s pediatrician, and she knew it was nephrotic syndrome. “My husband and I are looking her saying, ‘What is nephrotic syndrome?’ getting ready to look it up on our phones. She said, ‘Put your phones away. We need to get your son under the care of a pediatric nephrologist right away.”

When Are Children Diagnosed?

According to the National Kidney Foundation, children are often diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome between the ages of two and nine. “Swelling in the legs, abdomen, and around the eyes is usually the first sign of nephrotic syndrome in children. Swelling around the eyes may be confused with allergies. However, urine tests that show large amounts of protein usually point to nephrotic syndrome.”

FSGS is the second most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children. FSGS most often occurs in older children and adolescents.

What Kind of Pediatric Nephrologist Are You?

Another mother said, “So many people don’t really know enough about rare kidney disease, even nephrologists. I learned last year in the summit that there’s a difference between pediatric nephrologists who know about kidney disease,” she explained.

“There are also pediatric nephrologists who know about rare kidney disease, and I didn’t realize the difference.” She explained that they had consultations with six pediatric nephrologists before they found the right fit.”

“Is this person knowledgeable about what my kid has or not, and that really helped me decide, am I going to have a relationship with this person or am I moving on?” she said.

Treating a Child is a Group Effort

When treating children who are living with FSGS, treatment plans are a bigger group effort as opposed to the effort of 1 or 2. While many adults can navigate new treatment plans alone or with the help of a family member or significant other, the treatment plan for children “must extend beyond the child to the family system”, says Dr. Daryl O. Crenshaw, MD, FACP, FASN, FASH, a board-certified nephrologist who practices in Thomasville, GA. These professionals are part of their care ecosystem.

• Pediatric Nephrologist
• Dietician
• Social Workers
• Primary Care Doctor

That doesn’t mean that the patients themselves are to be overlooked. “Children engage best when care is framed as something they can do rather than something being done to them,” says Crenshaw. Depending on their age, involving your child in their treatment may be the best way to get them to understand what is going on. It also helps build trust and develop confidence, which will take you a long way.

Finding Community and Support

“Our pediatric nephrologist gave us the rundown from A to B about athletics. That it was terrifying, but it prepared us for what we were going to be up against,” the first mom said. “I’m like, okay, organization. I think I got this under control. I’m a mom. I can do it all, but every time my son relapsed, it was a different type of relapse.”

She knew that support and community would be critical to her journey. There were overwhelming fears about having her child labeled as “sick” at school. Her pediatric nephrologist initially recommended the NephCure’s walk in her city, but the family wasn’t ready. Two years later, she circled back and got the information.

“So we went to the walk, and then when we met the families, and everyone from NephCures, our lives really changed. At that point, because it made a difference,” she said.

Involve Your Child in Their Treatment

• Give them an active role in their treatment and more broadly, their health.
• Understanding how certain foods or choices can impact them. It can help encourage them to remain adherent and honest with you and their provider.

Whether you’re working with an HCP on a treatment plan for yourself, your child, or a loved one, always remember that you are not powerless; you are a partner. If there are questions that you feel moved to ask, ask them; if you’re experiencing new or different symptoms, bring that up; if there are ways you think something can be going more smoothly according to your needs, limitations, and lifestyle, don’t be afraid to talk about it with your doctor.

When creating a treatment plan, one of the most important things to remember is that it’s a collaborative effort. Both you and your doctor want what is best for you, and the best treatment is the one you are most likely to adhere to.

Partnering With Your Doctor as an Adult

According to Dr. Crenshaw, “Treatment guidelines provide structure, patients provide context,” he said. “The real art [of creating a treatment plan] is adjusting principles for the patient in front of me—whether that means accounting for their comorbidities, socioeconomic challenges, or medication adherence barriers.”

It helps to do the following, so your nephrologist has as much information as possible:

•  Keep track of your symptoms
• Write down any questions you might have for your provider beforehand
• Bring a list of any medications you currently take.

In addition, you may discuss your day-to-day life and your medical history. As your treatment plan is being developed, your doctor may want to know more about your environment. How close is your access to fresh food? What are your transportation options? All these things affect your health.

Understanding these correlations can get patients to better stick to their treatment. “Adherence increases when I take time to connect the science to their story. Plans thrive when they feel personalized”, says Dr. Crenshaw.

Managing Your FSGS

• Eat a low-sodium diet.
• Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Reduce alcohol consumption.
• Keep blood sugar under control.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise.
• Quit smoking.

Additional reporting by Christine Jean-Louis.

Resources

Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis 

National Kidney Foundation

Understanding FSGS

NephCure

The post Create a FSGS Treatment Plan That Works For You or Your Child appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Chronic illness affects millions, and more health experts now treat sleep as a key part of prevention and recovery. The CDC links sleep deprivation and sleep disorders to serious long-term health outcomes.

Diabetes

Studies show that short or disrupted sleep can raise the risk of type 2 diabetes. Sleep affects how the body regulates blood sugar, and poor sleep can lead to higher levels of hemoglobin A1c, a marker for long-term glucose control. Improving sleep quality may help people with diabetes manage their condition more effectively. Harvard Health notes that sleep loss disrupts insulin sensitivity and increases inflammation, both of which play a role in diabetes.

Heart Disease

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It can make the body work harder overnight and raise the risk of high blood pressure, stoke, and irregular heartbeats. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute reports that treating sleep apnea can lower the chance of cardiovascular risk and improve survival. One common treatment is a CPAP machine, which helps keep airways open while you sleep. Studies show that using a CPAP can reduce the risk of dying from heart-related issues in people with moderate to severe sleep apnea.

Obesity

Sleep affects metabolism and appetite. Children and adults who sleep less tend to gain more weight. The CDC highlights that sleep loss can disrupt the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls hunger and energy use. This is especially important for kids, whose brains are still developing. Kids who sleep less are more likely to gain excess weight, and those patterns can carry into adulthood.

Depression

Sleep and mental health are closely linked. People who don’t sleep well are more likely to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or depressed. Another common sleep disorder is insomnia, which means having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early without feeling rested. In fact, sleep problems often show up before a mental health diagnosis. The same Harvard Health review found that teenagers with sleep issues developed depression 69 percent of the time and anxiety 27 percent of the time. Another study of young adults ages 21 to 30 showed that those with a history of insomnia were four times more likely to develop major depression within three years. Treating sleep disorders like apnea or insomnia can help ease symptoms and improve mood. That’s why sleep is now considered a key part of mental health care.

Emerging Insight

A global study of over 88,000 adults found that irregular sleep schedules, such as going to bed at different times or having a disrupted body clock, are linked to higher risks for dozens of diseases. These include liver damage and even gangrene.

Researchers say it is time to rethink what “good sleep” means. It is not about how many hours you get. It’s also about keeping a steady rhythm. That rhythm is called your circadian rhythm. It is your body’s natural 24-hour cycle that helps regulate sleep, energy, digestion, and immune function. When this rhythm is thrown off, it can trigger inflammation and raise the risk for chronic illness.

If you have been feeling off beat and restless, it may be time to take sleep seriously. Getting good rest is not a luxury. It is part of staying well. Talk to your doctor and consider tracking your sleep. Small changes can help your body recover what it’s been missing.

Resoruces:

Sleep Deprivation, Sleep Disorders, and Chronic Disease

How sleep deprivation can harm your health – Harvard Health

Advancing Heart, Lung, Blood, and Sleep Research

Phenome-wide Analysis of Diseases in Relation to Objectively Measured Sleep Traits and Comparison with Subjective Sleep Traits in 88,461 Adults

The post How Sleep Affects Chronic Disease appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Wake-Up Call

In 2011, Rick Ross suffered two seizures within six hours. One happened mid-flight and forced his private jet to make an emergency landing. At the time, he reportedly 350 pounds, slept just three hours a night, and was eating 24-ounce steaks a 4 a.m., according to PEOPLE. His doctor told him that if he did not change his lifestyle, he might not survive.

Building a Routine That Worked

Ross began working with a Reebok trainer and developed a CrossFit-inspired workout that he called “RossFit.” His routine includes a warm-up jog followed by five exercise stations such as deadlifts and pushups. He trains for 30 minutes, four days a week. He also started working out with friends to stay motivated.

According to XXL, Ross told Men’s Health, “I’m happy. I’m still losing weight, and now I’m starting to build hard muscle in places.”

Ross didn’t cut everything out at once. He knew that quitting all the foods he loved would only backfire, so he made gradual changes instead. That approach helped him stick with it and avoid falling back into old habits.

Eating With Intention

Ross did not eliminate fast food entirely. He told PEOPLE that he still eats at places like Checkers and Wingstop, but only between noon and 5 p.m., and only two or three days a week. The rest of the time, he works with a chef to prepare meals that are healthy and satisfying.

“My advice for anyone looking to lose weight is to not make it feel like a job,” he said. “You’ve got to enjoy it.”

Sleep became a priority as well. Ross realized that rest was just as important as food and movement, especially after years of pushing through exhaustion.

More Than a Decade Later

By 2025, Ross has maintained a weight loss of at least 75 pounds. Some estimates place the total closer to 100. He continues to train, eat intentionally, and speak publicly about the importance of health. His transformation has sparked broader conversations about wellness among Black men, especially in communities where structural barriers delay diagnosis and treatment.

Ross’s journey began with fear and moved through trial and error. He didn’t set out to meet a goal on the scale. He focused on building a routine that felt possible. Over time, that routine became a life that supports him and it’s still unfolding.

Resources:

Rapper Rick Ross Reveals How He Lost 75 Lbs. to Save His Life After His Seizures

Rick Ross Reveals How Much Weight He Lost to Avoid Seizures

The post Inside Rick Ross’s Health Transformation appeared first on Black Health Matters.

We spoke with Antonia Walters, Co-Founder and CEO of Jayla Health, Inc., and Dr. Rachel Blake, Medical Advisor to Jayla Health, Inc., about what perimenopause really looks like and how culturally aware care can make all the difference.

Why Naming Perimenopause Matters

“When perimenopause is dismissed, Black women often end up suffering in silence for years,” said Antonia Walters. “Symptoms like heavy bleeding, brain fog, or fatigue can be brushed off as ‘just life,’ which delays treatment and increases the risk of more serious health issues, such as anemia or high blood pressure.”

She added, “For us, this stage is a health crossroads. Research from the SWAN study shows Black women tend to reach menopause earlier, experience longer and more intense symptoms, and face higher risks like fibroids and heart disease.”

Dr. Rachel Blake agreed. “When perimenopause symptoms are written off, particularly by healthcare providers, it truly endangers black women’s lives and livelihoods.”

What Support Should Look Like

“Supportive, culturally aware care means listening fully and meeting us where we are,” said Walters. “It looks like a provider asking about lived experience. Whether that’s how fibroids run in a family, or how cultural beliefs around menopause shape expectations.”

“It also means acknowledging systemic disparities. Black women are more likely to undergo hysterectomies, face misdiagnosis, or have symptoms dismissed as stress. Navigating these health risks requires more than just medical care. It needs understanding and care teams that reflect the women they serve.”

Dr. Blake added, “Culturally aware or culturally competent care takes into consideration the full lived experience of the patient in addition to their medical needs. It centers culture within discussions about goals of care, treatment plans, and even fears and anxieties about medical care.”

“For black women in particular, this is important given the historical context of racism and abuse in our healthcare system. This has unfortunately been passed down through generational trauma and must be considered in the care of every black woman.”

Hormone Changes Can Start Earlier

“I wish more of us knew that hormone changes can start earlier than expected, sometimes in the late 30s, and that symptoms don’t always look like hot flashes,” said Walters. “Subtle shifts like disrupted sleep, anxiety, or irregular cycles may be the first signs.”

“The SWAN study has shown that Black women often face heavier bleeding, more intense hot flashes, and longer symptom duration than White women. Understanding this helps us track what’s happening and seek support sooner, instead of wondering if it’s ‘just stress.’ With the right information and tools, we can take proactive steps to feel prepared instead of caught off guard.”

Dr. Blake said, “Throughout our 30s and even 40s, we are often hyper-focused on family planning. Be that childbearing and fertility, or contraception and pregnancy prevention.”

“I wish more Black women knew that during these times, particularly during our late 30s and early 40s, we also need to focus on our overall health. Many women don’t realize that hormonal health is an important component of overall health. Your hormonal health can be closely linked to your bone, heart, brain, and mental health.”

“So, by your overall health during your 30s and 40s, you can set yourself up to thrive during perimenopause, the menopausal transition and beyond.”

Testing That Reflects Your Cycle

“Our test is urine-based and measures follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which naturally rises as a woman approaches menopause,” said Walters. “It can be done at home every other day for five days, giving a fuller picture of hormone changes over time.”

“By contrast, most doctors use a blood test that captures only one point in time. That is, unless you have the time and money to go back repeatedly. The real value comes from pairing this data with a telehealth consultation led by a provider specially trained in perimenopause and menopause.”

“No single test can ‘diagnose’ perimenopause, but when results are combined with clinical expertise, the insights are powerful. And because 90 percent of our providers are women of color, patients also see themselves reflected in the care they receive.”

Dr. Blake said, “Jayla’s FSH test is performed in the comfort of your own home, which, for many women, may be easier and more convenient than getting the test done at a physician’s office.”

“FSH can fluctuate over the course of the menstrual cycle, so this type of serial testing is beneficial to obtain a clearer picture of what is happening inside each woman’s body. Following up this hormone testing with a telehealth consult helps patients to understand their results and really put this result into context with their overall symptom profile and menopause journey.”

Care That Doesn’t Dismiss You

“Jayla is building care that goes beyond prescriptions,” said Walters. “We’re a full-stack model that combines testing, telehealth, pharmacy, and education in one place.”

“For Black women, stress, systemic barriers, and the ‘weathering’ effects of discrimination influence our health journey. We’re intentional about making care seamless and supportive so that women don’t feel left behind.”

“Our approach is rooted in science but also in lived experience, recognizing that hormones influence every part of life. Ultimately, our goal is to modernize women’s healthcare. That means care that is accessible, relatable, and trustworthy. Too many of us have been underserved for far too long.”

Dr. Blake added, “All of Jayla’s providers are certified by the Menopause Society, which means that they can counsel patients about the full range of perimenopause and menopause symptoms and treatments.”

“Jayla providers are certified by the Menopause Society and specialize in perimenopause and menopause care. They follow evidence-based guidelines and take every symptom, question, and concern seriously during this often-confusing time.”

That kind of care is expert, evidence-based, and culturally aware. It is exactly what Black women deserve. Ready to take the next step? Jayla Health’s 2-minute quiz can help you get matched with perimenopause care that fits your needs.

Resources:

Expert Perimenopause Care – Jayla

Disparities in Reproductive Aging and Midlife Health between Black and White women: The Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) | Women’s Midlife Health | Full Text

Quiz – Jayla

The post Jayla Health Knows Perimenopause appeared first on Black Health Matters.

We spoke with Ricki Fairley, CEO and Co-Founder of TOUCH, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance, and Sue Weldon, Founder and CEO of Unite for HER, about what it means to build care that reflects the truth of Black women’s experiences and what it takes to change the system.

How Breast Cancer Impacts Us Is More Than Just Data Points

“The devastating mortality numbers associated with being Black and diagnosed with breast cancer are so much more than just data points, they validate a wholly different lived experience and disease,” said Ricki Fairley.

“Most people, when they picture breast cancer, picture an older white woman. And everything about breast cancer care has oriented around that perceived ‘typical’ patient. Black women have been largely left out of the conversation.”

Fairley defines Black Breast Cancer as “the constellation of exposures, experiences, and lack of science for Black women diagnosed with breast cancer that causes Black women to face disproportionately worse breast cancer outcomes.”

How TNBC Affects Our Community

Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is a fast-growing subtype of breast cancer that doesn’t respond to hormone therapies or targeted treatments. It’s much harder to treat, more likely to return, and disproportionately affects Black women, especially those under 40.

“We now have data that validates that the biology of a Black TNBC breast cancer cell looks significantly different from a white breast cancer cell,” Weldon said. “The treatments that we currently have available were based on clinical trials where the patient participation was not commensurate with the burden of disease.”

In other words, Black women are underrepresented in the very trials that shape today’s treatments, despite facing the highest risks.

TOUCH launched BlackTNBCSanctuary.org in 2024, a TNBC resource created by the community, for the community. Unite for HER expanded access to its Wellness Passport Program, offering integrative therapies, nutrition support, and community care.

“This wrap-around approach ensures that, even in the face of limited medical options, the women we serve are seen, supported, and given the care they need to truly live well,” Weldon said.

Unite for HER’s model is built around restoring quality of life. Patients receive therapies that ease side effects, reduce stress, and help them reclaim joy in their days. The program also fosters community, offering a space where women feel seen and supported.

The Care for HER Model is Designed Especially for Us

Care for HER is a new delivery model for Black breast cancer care. Co-created by TOUCH and Unite for Her, it fuses two proven systems. Patients receive round-the clock nurse navigation rooted in cultural experience, along with integrative therapies such as acupuncture, nutrition counseling, and wellness support. These services are now offered as one unified program, available nationwide and free of charge.

“We asked, what if we combined resources?” said Weldon. “We created a comprehensive approach to help Black women better access and adhere to their treatments. At the same time, we knew it was vital to amplify education about the stark health disparities, most notably that Black women die from breast cancer at a 40% higher rate than white women.”

Why Black Nurse Navigators Are Critical

In 1990, Dr. Harold Freeman created patient navigation to reduce delays in care for Black breast cancer patients. TOUCH Co-Founder Valarie Worthy, a longtime nurse and survivor, trained under Freeman.

“You have to have walked this path, both culturally and medically, to truly understand what it feels like,” said Fairley. “For patients, this is an unparalleled resource, to be understood, to have a trusted expert in their corner, and to see someone who has survived this disease.”

Today, Black women still receive later diagnoses and face a 40 percent higher mortality rate than white women. Most have never encountered a nurse navigator, and even fewer have access to one who shares their lived experience. TOUCH’s program fills that gap with culturally grounded guidance and 24/7 support, because cancer doesn’t care what time it is.

Spotting Access Barriers

The barriers to timely, equitable breast cancer care are layered. Obstacles such as dismissal by doctors at young ages, earned medical mistrust, and the inability to take time off work, among others, are major roadblocks. “There are too many barriers blocking access to care for Black patients to count,” said Fairley.

“Black women under age 35 get breast cancer at twice the rate of white women and die at three times the rate. The screening guideline of age 40 is too late for us.”

Clinical trial participation stays low because Black patients are rarely invited. When they are, it’s often during a crisis, like right after a diagnosis. Some women fear they’ll be denied real treatment. In clinical trials, a sugar pill refers to a placebo, a harmless fake treatment used for comparison. “Many of the Black Blessties who participated in our research mistakenly thought they were going to get a sugar pill and die,” Fairley said.

TOUCH uses the term Blesstie to describe a Black woman diagnosed with breast cancer. It’s a term that honors survival, sisterhood, and support.

Building Impact and Equity

“This growth reflects the importance of forming meaningful referral partnerships,” said Weldon. “We work with hospitals, cancer centers, and community organizations that share our mission. When these partnerships come together, the impact is profound. The metrics clearly affirm the value of this approach in advancing equitable care.”

That impact requires sustained investment. “At Unite for HER, we cannot keep up with the growing demand for our program without it,” Weldon said. “Each woman we serve receives $2,000 in integrative therapies and services. We’re proud to offer these resources. We have to raise the full amount every year.” TOUCH’s 24/7 navigation also depends on funding. “We wish we could offer it to everyone,” Fairley said.

“No woman should have to search for these resources or worry about how to afford them. They should be seamlessly built into every treatment plan,” Weldon said. Fairley added, “Until clinical trials reflect the burden of disease, we won’t get drugs that truly treat Black Breast Cancer.”

The vision is clear. Weldon said, “A future without Black breast cancer disparities is one where no woman feels unseen, unheard or dismissed.” She added, “True equality would be transformative.” Fairley shares that hope. “We don’t want anyone to die of breast cancer. But we do want to close the survival gap for Black women.”

This is where equity really begins.

Resources:

Touch BBCA

Unite for HER | Breast Cancer and Ovarian Cancer Support & Services

Home Page – Black TNBC Sanctuary

Your Wellness Passport | Unite For HER: Helping to Empower and Restore Breast and Ovarian Cancer Patients Nationwide

Care for HER | Unite For HER: Helping to Empower and Restore Breast and Ovarian Cancer Patients Nationwide

Blesstie Love – Touch BBCA

The post Care for HER: A New Model for Black Breast Cancer Support appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What is FSGS?

A healthy kidney oversees filtering the blood in your body to remove and flush waste like proteins, toxins, excess water, and more. Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, or FSGS, is a condition where parts of the kidney that filter waste are damaged or scarred. Because of this damage, some of the waste that your kidneys should be filtering leaks out into urine.

Dr. Crenshaw, a board-certified nephrologist in Thomasville, GA, brilliantly uses the analogy of rice in a strainer. “Imagine your kidneys act as the strainer holding in rice, which represents the essential substances your body needs,” he says.

“The more damaged your ‘strainer’ is, the easier it is for ‘grains of rice’ (essential substances) to pass through and enter the urine. Accumulation of vital substances in your urine can cause health complications, especially over time.

What are the Symptoms of FSGS?

• Swelling could be in the legs, ankles, and even around the eyes.
• Weight gain is due to fluid buildup
• Foamy urine from protein buildup, called proteinuria

When should I see a doctor?

Note: If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, please get in touch with your HCP as soon as possible.

Are There Different Types of FSGS?

According to the Mayo Clinic, there are four types of FSGS.

• Primary FSGS. Many people diagnosed with FSGS have no known cause for their condition. The condition is called primary (idiopathic) FSGS.
• Secondary FSGS. It may occur because of another disease, such as diabetes or sickle cell, drug toxicity, obesity, or other kidney diseases. But controlling the underlying cause may slow the progression.
• Genetic FSGS, a type of kidney disease caused by mutations in genes that play a role in the structure and function of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys.
• Unknown FSGS. Despite Clinical evaluation, the underlying cause has not been identified.

Questions to ask:

If I have diabetes or sickle cell disease, could I be at risk for FSGS?

Does my lupus put me at risk for FSGS?

What tests should I have annually?

One of my family members has FSGS. Does that mean I may have it too?

How early do I need to test my children?

What Kind of Health Complications Can Occur from FSGS?

• Nephrotic Syndrome is a condition that causes you to release an excessive amount of protein in the urine (pee). Nephrotic syndrome usually results from a problem with your kidneys’ filters (glomeruli). Glomeruli (glo-mare-yoo-lye) are tiny blood vessels in your kidneys. If you have nephrotic syndrome, losing different proteins may cause various problems. Some proteins help prevent blood clots. When you lose those proteins in your pee, blood clots can form.
• End-stage kidney Disease means your kidneys can no longer filter waste from your blood. It is often the final stage of CKD, but it can also develop suddenly or happen as a result of injury. Dialysis and transplant are the options then.

If You Don’t Have Symptoms: Be Proactive

Dr. Crenshaw encourages patients to be proactive and ask the right questions to understand their kidney health better.

Can you run the following test?

• Complete blood work
• Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)
• Creatinine
• Urine test to measure the amount of blood and protein in proteinuria

Once you have the tests, it is critical to keep track of your results. Then ask the following?

What are the results of my tests? What do they mean?

When should I come back for follow-up testing?

Dr. Crenshaw gives a complete breakdown of the CKD stages here. All this information will help you understand how well your kidneys are functioning currently and whether you are at higher risk for chronic kidney disease in the future.

Review Your Current Medications

Suppose you are someone who has high blood pressure, diabetes, and other comorbidities such as Hep B, Hep C, HIV, syphilis, or has been exposed to certain infections (including COVID-19). In that case, it’s essential to know that you may be predisposed to lower kidney function.

Will any of the medications I am currently taking hurt my FSGS diagnosis? Or my kidneys (if you are being proactive)?

Are there OTC medications I should avoid?

What about supplements? Are they safe to take?

Should I Consider Genetic Testing?

Dr. Crenshaw encourages everyone with African ancestry to request testing to check for any genetic disposition. There are several genetic variants related to kidney disease. One that explicitly impacts those in our community is called an APOL-1 variant, which could directly affect the progression of FSGS, heart disease, and other conditions. It has been described as an accelerator that causes your disease to progress at a faster rate.

Ask your nephrologist:

What are the benefits of genetic testing?

Do I need a referral for genetic counseling?

Does my insurance cover this?

Are there other things I need to know about genetic testing, including any possible disclosures to life insurance companies?

How do I Find a Good Nephrologist?

Your doctor may not automatically refer you to a nephrologist.  However, you can begin researching on your own, especially if your plan doesn’t require a referral. Read reviews before you decide. Tap into kidney organizations, connect with their patient and support networks for ideas as well. Check out our Nephrologist guide too.

FSGS can become a serious condition, so regularly monitoring your kidney function is essential for managing kidney health. Dr. Crenshaw shared that about 90% of people in the United States have kidney disease and are unaware of it. A statistic that is sure to wake us up about our kidney health: asking the right questions is key to understanding FSGS and its possible effects. It is not only a great way to get ahead of your kidney health, but also to encourage others to do the same.

Additional Reporting by Christine Jean-Louis

Resources

American Kidney Fund: FSGS

Mayo Clinic

National Kidney Foundation: Genetic Variants and Kidney Disease

The post FSGS: The Essential Questions to Ask Your Doctor appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“Unfortunately, we didn’t know what was behind her memory and thinking issues until her late 80s,” McIntosh says. “Back then, we just did the best we could in caring for her—but I really wish we had known more.”

That lack of answers stayed with Arlinda. Today, in her late 60s herself, the fashion designer and founder of Sofistafunk is both vigilant about her own cognitive health and inspired to create garments on what she calls a “creation with a cause”:

The Memory Skirt, Her Fashion Tells a Story

McIntosh, best known for her voluminous, whimsical skirt collections beloved by stars including Lauryn Hill, Queen Latifah, Mary J. Blige, and Yvette Nicole Brown, has always believed her designs should do more than look beautiful. “My skirts tell stories. They celebrate who we are and where we’ve been,” she says. The Memory Skirt takes that idea even further, weaving personal histories into wearable art.

Each one-of-a-kind piece incorporates a variety of fabrics, colors, textures, and needlework that reflect the life of the wearer. A recent commission was for Rita, a former journalist living with early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. Her skirt was designed with simulated newspaper clippings, fuchsia begonias, butterflies, cactus, and pink-and-gold-toned fabrics that remind her of home. “This skirt was my way of celebrating Rita,” McIntosh explains. “It was threaded with care, resilience, and hope.”

A Personal Wake-Up Call

McIntosh admits that as she got older, she began to notice a few “memory moments” of her own—things she once brushed off as stress or the overload of life as a mother, grandmother, and entrepreneur. But her family history weighed on her and pushed her to dig deeper. ”

One day, I thought, perhaps this is more than normal aging, and I should speak with my doctor to discuss it further,” she says. In true McIntosh fashion, she researched everything she could before her appointment, stumbling across terms like amyloid plaques—protein buildups in the brain linked to memory and thinking issues. “That was enough to give me even more reason not to miss my appointment,” she says. “After all, self-advocacy is my top priority—and there’s nothing wrong with a little cognitive testing—because I have many more skirts to sew.”

A Creative Legacy on A Mission

McIntosh’s career in fashion spans more than four decades, from hand-finishing garments at Norma Kamali in the 1970s to launching Sofistafunk in 2000 with her daughter-in-law. Known for slow, sustainable design (aka upcycling), she primarily works with natural fabrics like cotton, linen, wool, and silk, believing they carry an energy that supports well-being.

With The Memory Skirt, McIntosh masterfully blends artistry with advocacy. Inspired by her late mother and grandmother—women she once watched pick cotton and tobacco as sharecroppers in North Carolina, and both of whom later experienced memory and thinking issues—she sees the project as both a celebration of life stories and a gentle reminder for others to pay closer attention to their own cognitive health.

Why It Matters

McIntosh’s message is clear: if you notice memory or thinking changes in yourself or a loved one, don’t ignore them. Talk to a doctor. Ask if testing could be the next step in getting a complete evaluation. “Understanding that my mother’s symptoms were more than normal aging has totally shaped the way I approach my own health today,” she says. Through Arlinda’s designs, she’s making something beautiful out of something deeply challenging—a way to destigmatize memory and thinking issues while honoring the people who live with them every day.

Learn More

If you want your own version of The Memory Skirt? McIntosh says, “You can email her up to three photos and she will convert them into ‘heat transfers’ that will be beautifully incorporated into your skirt’s design.” She has had clients submit images from family albums, fashion magazines, vintage catalogs (i.e., Spiegel), and old album covers (i.e., Nat King Cole).

It depends on what your parent or loved one is or was into. For more information, go to sofistafunk.com and follow her on Instagram @funkingafter50. To learn more about memory and thinking issues and what steps you can take if you’re concerned for yourself or someone you love, visit More Than Normal Aging.

The post The Memory Skirt Weaves Fashion and Cognitive Health Together appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Reed Was Impacted by Breast Cancer Early in Life

Reed says her dance with breast cancer began when she was just 18. “My mother, who had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of the disease, lost her battle when she was 40,” Reed says.

But the pain of that kind of loss revisited her family. When her younger sister was diagnosed with the same aggressive form of breast cancer. This was the first glamour shoot Reed did for a woman living with breast cancer. “It brought her such joy,” Reed says. Unfortunately, she passed away at age 38.

“Then, at age 33, my older sister was also diagnosed, but miraculously, she continues to fight her own battle,” the photographer adds.

Her  Diagnosis, Her Own Story

“Our family history was a stark reminder of the importance of early detection and being vigilant,” Reed says. “I have always been proactive about my health, especially regarding breast cancer.”

Reed, who was a breast imaging tech doing mammograms before she became a successful photographer, says, “I started getting mammograms at 30 and kept up with them religiously for nearly 15 years. It went from routine to reality in November of 2021. “I received an unexpected callback for additional images and, of course, anxiety set in,” Reed says. Soon, she faced the daunting prospect of a biopsy.

“The irony was that I had spent over 15 years working in breast imaging and was now on the other side of the exam table,” Reed adds.

Black Women and Breast Cancer By the Numbers

As the rates of breast cancer overall are going down, rates of aggressive and invasive breast cancer in Black and Brown women continue to rise, according to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). According to BCRF, in 2025, more than 319,750 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 59,080 new cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (also known as stage 0 breast cancer) will be diagnosed in women in the United States. While there has been an overall 44 percent decline in breast cancer deaths since 1989—thanks to gains in awareness, earlier diagnoses, and more effective treatments—there is a persistent mortality gap between Black women and white women.

Reed’s Diagnosis and Treatment

“My diagnosis was invasive ductal carcinoma, Stage 1, Triple Positive – considered one of the more manageable forms of breast cancer,” Reed says. “I was given the option of 12 weeks of chemotherapy, and if I chose a mastectomy, I could avoid radiation.” The photographer chose that form of treatment and has had five surgeries to date.

“While I couldn’t control my diagnosis, I could control my attitude and approach to this challenging journey.”

The mom, wife, and sister says, that her strong faith helped her navigate the treatment that got her through to the other side. She says the support of her husband and two teen sons was invaluable. “I held a steadfast belief that I was healthy, before each test, and that I would remain healthy. My body was, and still is, a remarkable healing machine,” she adds.

Making Breast Cancer Patients Feel Beautiful is Even More Important to Her Now

Reed has also remained focused on bringing beauty and joy to other women living with breast cancer through her photography, even while she was still in treatment.

She never forgot the joy that the experience of being a cover girl gave her sister. The aspiring creative partnered with the local Breast Cancer Resource Center of Central Texas to conduct the photo shoots. “I have the nonprofit choose the women who will participate, and I bring together a team that pampers them and creates legacy photos for them and their family.” I am honored to be a part of their journey.

Even though Reed acknowledges that her journey hasn’t been easy, she says, My breast cancer journey has also been marked by resilience, hope, and a strong mindset.

“I hope my story inspires other women facing similar battles to stay positive, proactive, and determined,” she says.

Resources

Breast Cancer Resource Fund

Understanding Ductal Cancer Carcinoma in Situ

Stage 1 Triple Positive Breast Cancer

The post Seeing Breast Cancer Through a New Lens appeared first on Black Health Matters.

This phase before menopause affects hormones and can throw off your cycle, energy, and sense of balance. We spoke to Dr. Nicole Sparks, an OB-GYN and lifestyle content creator, about what to expect and when to speak up.

 The First Signs of Perimenopause

Perimenopause often begins subtly. Hormone levels shift, and these changes can manifest in various ways, such as trouble sleeping, mood swings, or irregular menstrual periods. Many people assume it is stress or aging, but these symptoms may be your body’s way of signaling something more specific.

“Some of the signs and symptoms associated with perimenopause are vague and non-specific,” says Dr. Sparks. “So, you may attribute them to stress or ‘getting older’ when it may be more serious than that. Hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and irregular periods are some of the first signs patients present with.”

She adds, “It’s ok to have occasional irregular periods. Maybe you’ve started exercising more than usual, or were traveling, and your period came early or late. But if you notice a pattern of persistent irregular periods and symptoms over time, that’s when you should seek help.”

How Perimenopause Impacts Black Women Differently

“Most women start having symptoms of perimenopause in their mid to late forties, but some experience them as early as their thirties,” says Dr. Sparks.

“Perimenopause usually lasts four to eight years and ends when you’ve gone one full year without a period.”

For Black women, the timeline may be earlier and the symptoms more intense. “Studies show that perimenopause can begin earlier in Black women,” she says. “Because of chronic stress and socioeconomic factors, symptoms like irregular periods, sleep disturbances, and hot flashes may be dismissed as normal, and women may not seek help.”

How Shifts in Estrogen Impact Hair, Weight, and Hormones.

Estrogen is often regarded as a reproductive hormone, but it also plays a crucial role in hair growth, metabolism, and the body’s fat storage. During perimenopause, as estrogen levels begin to decline, these systems start to shift in noticeable ways.

“All of the symptoms during perimenopause and menopause tie directly back to a decrease in estrogen,” Dr. Sparks explains.

“Estrogen helps promote the active growth phase of hair follicles. When it decreases, follicles stay longer in the resting phase, and you may notice increased shedding and thinning.”

Estrogen also affects metabolism and the body’s fat storage. “You may notice your metabolism slowing down in your late thirties and early forties,” she says. “You’re burning fewer calories at rest. Fat storage shifts, especially to the abdomen. And when estrogen drops, so does your insulin sensitivity, which can lead to weight gain and increased appetite.”

Estrogen also helps maintain bone strength, so when levels fall, the risk of osteoporosis increases. That is a condition where bones become weaker and more likely to break. Supporting your body with calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing movement like walking or resistance training can help protect your bones during this transition.

They Also Affect Our Mood, Brain, and Mental Health

Hormonal shifts during perimenopause also influence brain chemistry, including neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. These are chemical messengers that help regulate mood, focus, and emotional stability.

Estrogen helps your brain produce and utilize serotonin, which supports emotional stability and sleep. It also affects dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in motivation and attention.

Progesterone works with calming systems in the brain that help you feel settled and sleep well.

When these hormones start to rise and fall unevenly, it can throw off how your brain handles emotions, focus, and stress.

“It’s not all in your head, and you’re not alone,” says Dr. Sparks. “Serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters that help regulate mood. When estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, you may feel irritable one minute and fine the next.”

She continues, “You may notice brain fog, struggling to find words or remember lyrics, and have difficulty concentrating.

These hormone shifts can contribute to anxiety and depression. Add in sleep disturbances and insomnia, and it can make everything feel worse.”

Sleep Disruptions

Sleep changes during perimenopause can mean trouble falling asleep, waking up too early, or feeling unrested. Hormones such as estrogen and progesterone also influence melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle.

When melatonin is disrupted, your body may struggle to determine when it is time to wind down.

Simple changes, such as maintaining a regular bedtime, limiting screen time before sleep, and avoiding caffeine late in the day, can help. If insomnia persists, consult your doctor about treatment options tailored to your needs.

Can It Impact Your Diabetes or Hypertension?

“If you are living with diabetes or high blood pressure, it’s important to know how perimenopause can affect your conditions,” Dr. Sparks says. “Estrogen is a protective factor for our heart. When levels decline, it increases your risk for cardiovascular disease, which is the number one cause of death in Black women.”

She explains that lower estrogen can also lead to insulin resistance, which affects how well your body manages blood sugar.

“These changes can lead to higher blood pressure, higher blood sugar, and increased weight gain. Let your doctor know if you start to notice shifts in these numbers.”

Perimenopause often overlaps with the onset of chronic conditions. Bone density, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels can shift without apparent symptoms. Regular checkups and updates to laboratory tests, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and hemoglobin A1c, can help detect changes early and guide your care.

Pregnancy Can Still Occur

Perimenopause doesn’t mean pregnancy is off the table. Ovulation can still happen, even if cycles are irregular or symptoms are hard to track.

Birth rates among women in their late 30s and early 40s have continued to rise, as more people choose to start families later in life.

This unpredictability can be stressful. If you’re trying to conceive, it may take longer and require fertility support. If you’re not trying to conceive, it’s worth reviewing your birth control options. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends seeking an infertility evaluation after six months of trying if you’re over 35, and before trying if you’re over 40.

Advocating for Better Care

“You aren’t married to your doctor,” says Dr. Sparks. “If your concerns are being dismissed, find a new provider. It’s unfortunate, but many women aren’t taken seriously when they bring up perimenopause.”

She encourages preparation. “Advocate for yourself. Bring a list of symptoms and why you’re concerned. Keep a diary so you can be specific. Ask if your symptoms could be related to perimenopause and what that means for your health.

“Make sure your labs, blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screenings are current. If they aren’t, request updates. And if your provider still doesn’t listen, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion.”

You do not have to wait until things get worse. If you are noticing changes in your cycle, mood, sleep, or energy, start tracking them. The more specific you are, the easier it is to get answers and the care you deserve.

Resources:

About Nicole – Nicole Alicia MD

Evaluating Infertility | ACOG

The post This Is What Perimenopause Feels Like appeared first on Black Health Matters.

This year, he’s taking that work to a new level through national partnerships and candid storytelling that explores what it’s really like to live with Crohn’s.

What Is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can cause severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue, according to the Mayo Clinic. It’s an unpredictable illness that can flare up without warning, making everyday life a constant balancing act between managing symptoms and trying to lead a normal life.

From Crisis to Campaign

In September 2025, Williams partnered with AbbVie to launch Beyond a Gut Feeling, a national campaign aimed at breaking the stigma around gastrointestinal health. In the campaign video, he uses a chaotic film set as a metaphor for uncontrolled IBD. “You wouldn’t put up with an out-of-control video like this,” he says. “So why put up with uncontrolled IBD?”

The campaign marks a turning point in Williams’ journey with Crohn’s disease, a condition he didn’t fully understand until it nearly cost him his life. Diagnosed in his early 20s, he spent years pushing through symptoms while trying to stay healthy and build muscle. By 24, he was in crisis. “It just crashed. Everything shut down,” he told Men’s Health. Emergency surgery removed six inches of his lower intestine, but the damage was too severe. His intestines perforated, he went septic, and doctors raced him back into surgery.

For months, he relied on a feeding system that delivered nutrients directly into his veins and used an ostomy bag. At one point, Williams weighed just 105 pounds and was too weak to stand.

That experience reshaped how he thinks about health. In the Beyond a Gut Feeling campaign video, he reflected, ” I looked at it a lot as, well, my abdomen hurts right now. I need that to stop hurting so I can do my job,” he says. “Where the actual answer is, something’s wrong here. I need to figure out what that is.”

For Williams, recovery was physical and emotional. Williams had to reevaluate his relationship with wellness and happiness. He gave up alcohol, red meat, and coffee to reduce flare-ups. “Symptom management is important for feeling better, but it does not change the course of the disease,” he explains. “That’s why I’m focusing on long-term goals like visible improvement of the lining of the intestinal tract.”

Now in remission, Williams is sharing what he’s learned. He used to brush off his own symptoms and push through the pain just to get through the day. That approach nearly cost him everything. Now he pays attention, and he wants people to know that being well comes first.

Brotherly Wellness

Crohn’s doesn’t just affect one person; it reshapes routines and relationships. In the same interview with Men’s Health, Tyler revealed that his younger brother Tyrel also has Crohn’s disease. Tyrel’s first flare-up happened in early 2020. Since then, the brothers have focused on their health together, trading support and staying honest about what their bodies need.

“I had to learn how to stop making dramatic changes quickly and develop a better relationship with my body,” said Tyler. This journey has strengthened their bond, allowing Tyler to inspire others and offer support and empathy to those facing similar circumstances.

Awareness

It’s important to note that while Crohn’s disease is more common in non-Hispanic White populations, the rates of hospitalization and death are disproportionately higher within the Black community. According to the CDC, the prevalence of Crohn’s disease among non-Hispanic Black individuals is about 0.5%. Still, the rates of hospitalization and death are much higher compared to other racial groups. This highlights the specific hardships our community faces due to systemic disparities. Raising awareness is a valuable step we can all take toward improving our individual and collective health.

Here are some common symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease, according to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation:

• Persistent diarrhea.
• Rectal bleeding.
• Urgent need to move bowels.
• Abdominal cramps and pain.
• Sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation
• General symptoms like fever, weight loss, and loss of appetite.
• Constipation, which can lead to bowel obstruction.

Tyler James Williams’ battle with Crohn’s disease highlights the importance of looking after our health and well-being. Health issues can sometimes throw us off track, and often, we might not even know they’re there. Remember, self-care includes speaking up about your feelings and seeking help when needed. While it may feel uncomfortable at first, reaching out can make a real difference. So, if you think you might be experiencing symptoms of Crohn’s, it’s important to talk to your doctor and get the support you deserve.

Resources:

Crohn’s disease – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

Beyond A Gut Feeling

Tyler James Williams’s Big Secret for Becoming Stronger Than Ever

IBD Facts and Stats | IBD | CDC

Crohn’s Disease Symptoms: What to Watch For | Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

The post Abbott Elementary’s Tyler James Williams On Living With Crohn’s appeared first on Black Health Matters.

•  Red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body
• White blood cells, which fight infection
• Platelets, which control bleeding, are regularly generated in a healthy body to replace old, dying ones. The excessive production of white blood cells in the bone marrow leads to blood cancers.

There Are Different Types of Blood Cancer

Leukemia, lymphoma, and Myeloma are some of the most common types of blood cancer.

Leukemia

• Leukemia is the most common blood cancer in the U.S. and the most common form of childhood cancer. There are many types of leukemia, but in general, it occurs in the bone marrow when abnormal white blood cells are produced at an abnormally high rate. This interferes with the bone marrow’s ability to produce red blood cells and platelets.

Subcategories of leukemia:

• Acute erythroid leukemia, Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), Acute megakaryoblastic leukemia, Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), Childhood leukemia, Hairy cell leukemia (HCL), Large granular lymphocytic leukemia (LGLL), Mast cell leukaemia (MCL).

Lymphoma

•  Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in the body’s immune response to infection. Lymphoma cells can form tumors in areas such as your lymph nodes. There are two primary forms: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Subcategories of lymphoma

• Burkitt lymphoma, Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), Double-hit lymphoma Follicular lymphoma, Grey zone lymphoma, High-grade B-cell lymphoma not otherwise specified (NOS), Hodgkin lymphoma, MALT lymphoma, Mantle cell lymphoma, Nodal marginal zone lymphoma, Nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL), Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Peripheral T cell lymphoma (PTCL), Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), Skin lymphoma (cutaneous lymphoma), Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), Splenic marginal zone lymphoma, Triple-hit lymphoma, Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM).

Myeloma

• Myeloma originates in the bone marrow and affects white blood cells called plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system by producing antibodies to combat germs. Multiple Myeloma is the most common subtype of plasma cell neoplasms. Symptoms usually don’t appear until the cancer is widespread and advanced. Rarer forms of blood cancer include:
  • Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). In this type of cancer, the bone marrow produces an excessive number of white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets.
  • Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). With MDS, your bone marrow makes abnormal blood cells. Sometimes, blood cells are abnormal because they fail to develop fully. Immature cells are called blasts.

• Non-cancerous blood conditions: MGUS

Risk Factors

For Blood Cancer

• Certain factors may play a role in increasing your blood cancer risk, including:
• Age. Your risk of developing a condition increases as you age.
•  Sex. Blood cancers are more common in males.
• Smoking. A smoking history or exposure to secondhand smoke may increase your risk.
• Exposure to toxic chemicals. Long-term exposure to benzene and formaldehyde can increase your risk of specific health issues. You’re more likely to encounter them if you work in an industry like manufacturing.
• Previous cancer treatment. Previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy may increase your risk of developing blood cancer.
• Biological family history. Some types of blood cancers may run in families. But most people who receive a diagnosis don’t have a family member with blood cancer.
•  Several autoimmune diseases, genetic disorders, and conditions that cause long-term inflammation are associated with increased blood cancer risk. Blood cancers aren’t avoidable.

But even someone with a clean bill of health can develop blood cancer. However, you can lower your risk by avoiding certain risk factors, such as smoking.

Additional Risk Factors for Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Myeloma

Leukemia: Advancing age, being male, family history of blood cancer, smoking, genetic disorders like Down syndrome, Chronic exposure to high doses of radiation or industrial chemicals, and a History of chemotherapy or radiation cancer treatment.

Lymphoma: advancing age, although people between the ages of 15 and 35 are at risk for Hodgkin lymphoma; being male; a family history of blood cancer; and a History of infection and disease. For example, the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes mono, can increase the risk for Hodgkin and autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, a weakened immune system, Chronic exposure to certain industrial chemicals, and radiation.

Myeloma: Advancing age, being male, being African American, Family history of blood cancer or other plasma cell diseases, such as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) or solitary plasmacytoma, being overweight or obese, and Chronic exposure to radiation and chemicals.

Symptoms

People with blood cancer may experience a range of symptoms, including:

• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Frequent infections

Other symptoms include: Bone pain, Drenching night sweats, Enlarged liver or spleen, Joint pain, Persistent fever, Unexplained weight loss, Unusual bruising or bleeding (warning signs include tiny red skin spots or purplish skin patches), rash, or itchy skin that is unexplained. Learn more about the symptoms of blood cancer.

Bruises: On lighter skin, bruises start red and gradually darken. However, on darker skin, bruises may be hard to see at first but become darker than the surrounding skin over time.

Rashes: They often appear as clusters of tiny spots or larger blotches. On lighter skin, rashes look red or purple. On Black and brown skin, they appear as dark purple or darker spots. These spots don’t fade when pressed.

Paleness (A Loss of Pallor): Easier to spot in light skin as unusual paleness. In individuals with Black or brown skin, pallor may appear grayish or manifest as paler palms, lips, gums, tongue, or nail beds. For all skin types, pale inner eyelids can also be a sign.

How is Blood Cancer Diagnosed?

• Leukemia: Your doctor will order a complete blood count (CBC) test, which can help identify abnormal levels of white blood cells in relation to red blood cells and platelets.
• Lymphoma: Your doctor will need to perform a biopsy, which involves removing a small portion of tissue for examination under a microscope. In some cases, your doctor may also order an X-ray, CT, or PET scan to detect swollen lymph nodes.
• Myeloma: Your doctor will order a CBC, as well as other blood or urine tests, to detect chemicals or proteins produced as a result of myeloma development. In some cases, bone marrow biopsy, X-ray, MRI, PET, and CT scans can be used to confirm the presence and extent of the spread.

How is Blood Cancer Treated?

Common treatments for blood cancer include:

• Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is a primary treatment for blood cancer. It kills cancer cells to either slow down the disease’s progress or eliminate the cancer. Healthcare providers use various types of chemotherapy drugs to treat different blood cancers.
•  Radiation therapy. This treatment uses radiation to damage the DNA in abnormal cells, preventing them from replicating. Providers may use radiation to ease symptoms (palliative care). They often combine radiation therapy with other forms of treatment.
•  Immunotherapy. This treatment improves your immune system’s ability to fight cancer. Some of the most commonly used immunotherapies for blood cancer are monoclonal antibodies and CAR T-cell therapy.
• Targeted therapy. These treatments target weaknesses in cancer cells related to abnormal genetic mutations.
• Autologous stem cell transplant. Providers can collect bone marrow stem cells from your body before giving you high doses of chemotherapy. Once chemotherapy kills the cancer cells, they’ll give your healthy stem cells back to you. They’ll develop into healthy blood cells.
• Allogeneic stem cell transplant. Sometimes, damaged bone marrow needs to be replaced with healthy bone marrow. Providers identify a suitable bone marrow donor and use the donor’s cells to replace your damaged ones.
•  Stem cell transplantation: Healthy stem cells can be infused into your body to help resume healthy blood production following therapy to destroy malignant blood cells.

Resources

Blood Cancer United.org

Yale Medicine: Blood Cancers

Summa Health: Leukemia Risk Factors

Blood Cancer UK symptoms and signs

International Myeloma Foundation

Race and Ethnicity Risk Factors for Leukemia

Cleveland Clinic

The post Understanding Blood Cancers appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Black Health Matters Harlem Week Health Summit welcomed patient advocates and healthcare professionals to discuss the importance of sharing information about APOL1-mediated kidney disease. Kemi Williams, PhD, MBA, described the disease’s relationship with the Black community.

“This is a rapidly progressing chronic kidney disease that disproportionately affects people of West African ancestry, particularly African Americans,” she said.

“Knowledge and awareness of the disease is very low,” she added. “We’re hoping to change that today.”

Most of us who have kidney disease don’t know it.

Daryl O. Crenshaw, MD, noted the horrific impact of the limited awareness. “We understand now that about 37 million Americans have kidney disease, but the caveat is that most do not know they have it,” he said.

“At least 50 percent of Black Americans have at least one of the APOL risk variants, and having two of the APOL risk variants increases your chance of developing kidney disease.”

Kidney disease can lead to serious complications like kidney failure. “African Americans develop kidney failure at rates 4–5 times higher than Americans of European descent,” according to Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism.

Joshua Albright discovered his kidney disease by accident.

Patient advocates and brothers Joshua and Jorden Albright shared their family’s experience with APOL1-mediated kidney disease.

Joshua accidentally learned about his kidney issues when visiting a family member impacted by kidney disease. “My aunt had given a kidney away to another family member, and we stopped by her house basically just to check on her, and she had a blood pressure machine out so she could check her blood pressure, and my sister and my cousins were playing around with the blood pressure machine. They put the cover on my arm, and my levels were extremely high,” he said.

It didn’t bother him much. His youth deceived him into believing it wasn’t a big deal. “At that time, I was 17, turning 18. I couldn’t care less what my blood pressure said, to be honest. I was trying to go see what the plan was that night with my friends,” he said.

Joshua’s mother thought there was something wrong and immediately called his PCP.

His mother and doctor took it seriously. “My mom actually reached out to my primary care doctor, and they let her know that I should be rushed to urgent care just to get a follow-up kind of,” said Joshua.

“Shout out to all those mothers and sisters out there that are being the healthcare advocates and warriors within their families, pushing them to get a test,” interjected Williams.

After discovering that his brother had the APOL-1 gene variant, Jorden got tested as well, and he had a different one.

Following his brother’s diagnosis, Jorden was diagnosed as well. The family was attuned to the risk. “I’m very, very blessed that my brother was diagnosed,” he said. “We learned that Josh had the G1 variation. I had the G2.”

How Joshua made clinical trial participation work while a college student.

Joshua was open about his decision to participate in a clinical trial. One reason he didn’t hesitate was that there were concerns about his privacy as a college student and his quality of life. He believes it is essential to focus on the patient’s life outside of their medical concerns in clinical trials. “I was diagnosed right before college. They gave me the flexibility to be able to coordinate at-home visits,” he said.

“I remember when I was in college, I was a little bit…I felt like I looked at my kidney disease as a weakness. I didn’t want everybody in the dorms knowing I had a nurse coming to check on me, so I would actually go all the way home to my parents’ house, and they would have a nurse meet me there. I’d have at-home visits.”

“It” puts the patient first.”

Resources

Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism

The post What’s In Them Genes? Let’s Learn About AMKD appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What the Beyond the Belief Session Covered

The session featured intergenerational elements. They were designed to highlight the new stages of life. The idea is to expand conversations and stay connected to the condition. As people live longer with the condition, this session was the first step in helping us realize we need to adapt our thinking.

The session brought “real stories of aging, community, and many forms of belief that continue to move us forward—whether rooted in faith, science, relationships, or lived experience” to thousands of attendees at the conference. “A variety of cultural and historical factors, such as religious and moral belief systems and political ideologies, can manifest in health care systems’ policies,” according to the American Medical Association Journal of Ethics. Interacting with faith-based communities and respecting patients’ faith has proven to be an effective strategy for engaging populations that need it the most.

Rae Lewis-Thorton is Fighting for Policy Changes and Access to Treatments

Lewis-Thornton made her presence known in the session. As an icon in the community, she uses her voice to fight for policy changes and increased access to treatment. Her life stands as an example of the hope found by many today. “There were no medicines to treat HIV, and funeral directors were afraid to even bury somebody with HIV, so you know it was a cruel time, and so I kept my infection a secret for seven years. I think I told five people those first seven years,” she told Black Health Matters.

She went from living with the secret to speaking out boldly, going beyond fear and shame, bolstered by her belief. She told the story of how one can thrive after a diagnosis. Since then, her voice has encouraged many others. Lewis spoke on the importance of incorporating spaces that hold the beliefs of others as something of value alongside useful scientific information.

Living Beyond Belief

“When we begin to think about where we are with this disease? Yeah. I am living beyond belief, and I think a lot of that has to do with science, and I think a whole lot of it has to do with God,” said Lewis-Thorton.

A 2024 study at Harvard argued that “In a reimagined clinical and public health system, spiritual factors would be routinely considered in creating person- and community-centered policy and practice.” It identified spirituality as a determinant of health.

“It’s important that we all work to make HIV a smaller part of people’s lives who are living with HIV, and that includes reducing stigma that includes holistic health and seeing people less as whole humans and the wholeness of their humanity, meaning that it is important that we recognize all parts of us and all parts of our health,” said Randevyn Piérre, Head of U.S. External Affairs, ViiV Healthcare.

Reality star and entrepreneur Dwight Eubanks shared how his place of worship led to his prostate cancer diagnosis earlier this year.

You can’t see that wholeness unless you go to where the people are, something the session was determined to do.

A 2022 report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health (OMH), Black women were 10 times more likely than non-Hispanic White women to be diagnosed with HIV.

You Can’t Fight This Disease Alone: Community is Key

When we examine the numbers and who is being infected, community organizations must be part of the response.

“Black women are in the church, and so it’s important that organizations that do this work like this speak to us in our social location, that they speak to us at the center of who we are,” said Lewis-Thornton.

“People who are living with this disease need something greater than themselves, something higher than themselves in their lives. And so, whatever they, however they, address their spirituality. I think it is significant to live with this disease. You can’t not do it. You know, we are not super people and we cannot do it alone, and I think we need to believe in something greater than us.”

But Black women can’t be both the most infected and the only ones stepping up to treat them. How will faith-based organizations commit themselves to this work in the future?

They Incorporated Contemporary Worship Music to Help Deliver the Message to Millennials and Gen Z

Because the audience spanned a range of ages, the session used a more Contemporary style of praise and worship to bridge the gap. It represented a shift towards inclusion, reflecting the way millennials and Gen Z communicate. Lewis-Thornton described the energy present during the musical interlude.

“Everyone receives messages and communications differently, depending on the messenger, depending on the channel. So, for us to be able to amplify this crucial information around HIV, and to prioritize awareness in different ways, is really an awesome opportunity that’s really critical,” said Randevyn Piérre, Head of U.S. External Affairs, ViiV Healthcare.

“ViiV is really committed to reaching communities in ways that are relatable, and in ways that are relevant, and in ways that resonate and music resonates in many ways with many people, and so we wanted to try something that we’d seen, popping up, in different spaces online that folks were really reacting to and sort of make it relatable and tie it into the experience at USCHA.”

Resources

HIV.gov

American Medical Association Journal of Ethics

HHS.gov

The post Beyond Belief: Surviving & Thriving with HIV/AIDS appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Dissatisfied With the First Doctor, Lori Harvey Got a Second Opinion

“I’ve been so frustrated,” she told her mother, Majorie Harvey, on the phone. “I’ve been going to my gynecologist because I’ve just been feeling like something’s off in my body.” She recalled their chat to hosts Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi and Mary Alice Haney. Dr. Aliabadi, whom Harvey lovingly referred to as “Dr. A,” is the second doctor she sought out.

Lori Harvey Discovered She Has Two Conditions

“Endometriosis is a chronic, multisystemic disease of inflammation affecting approximately 10% of the female population,” according to the Journal of Reproduction and Fertility. A 2019 literature review published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology reported that “Black women were less likely to be diagnosed with endometriosis.” Additional research is needed on the topic.

“Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age,” according to the World Health Organization. Their research reflects that up to 70% of those living with this condition and the pain it causes might be unaware of what is happening to their bodies.

PCOS May Impact Black Women Differently

“There are several racial and ethnic differences in PCOS phenotypes and in PCOS-associated metabolic dysfunction,” according to the Journal of Fertility and Sterility.

Lori was experiencing excruciating symptoms, consistent inflammation, fluctuating weight gain, facial hair, acne, and other symptoms associated with PCOS and endometriosis. She began experiencing these symptoms in her teenage years.

There is an increased risk for depression, anxiety, and eating disorders with these conditions as well. The hosts commented on how the condition’s ability to negate the efficiency of diets as a trigger for those who might be suffering from eating disorders, especially those in vulnerable populations like teenage girls. Lori later commented that symptoms impacted her “relationship with food” but did not say she had an eating disorder.

Black women with PCOS have an increased risk for severe metabolic issues according to the Journal of the Endocrine Society, making its presence about more than pain. It can lead to fertility issues as well.

The Blanket Dismissal of Her Symptoms By Lori’s Previous Doctor

Lori stressed the disconnect between her and her previous doctor that prevented her from learning she had both conditions. She spoke up, but was unheard.

“Every time I go to her, she’s like, ‘You’re fine, you’re fine, you’re fine. Nothing’s wrong.’ And I was like, ‘But I don’t feel fine. I feel like something is just off.'”

She described the intense suffering that came with that “off” feeling. “I used to have the most excruciating periods of my life, every single time I felt like I needed to go to the hospital, just crazy cramps. I’m taking 800 milligrams of Ibuprofen. Nothing is working, it’s just debilitating,” said Harvey.

Her previous doctor did not share her concerns about the impact the pain had on her life. They felt that over-the-counter remedies were sufficient for what she was enduring.

“They’d be like, ‘Oh, just take some Tylenol, you’ll be fine.’ And I’m like, there’s no way this is normal,” she continued. “When you keep telling these doctors who are supposed to be there to help you that you don’t feel right and something’s off and they keep telling you you’re fine, it’s almost like you’re getting gaslit.”

The Pain She Felt Was Not Normal

After years of “suffering in silence,” Lori sought a second opinion that validated menstrual discomfort should not be completely sitting her down. Together they discovered there was “a lot going on” inside her body.

The second doctor told her, “Yeah, babe, you’re right. It was not normal, and I’m so sorry that you’ve just been living with this, and people have been telling you that this is just how it’s supposed to be because it’s not.”

Money and Privilege Don’t Always Help

The hosts pointed out that if Lori’s fame and privilege didn’t help her in advocating for herself with previous doctors, that didn’t bode well for the average person. PCOS can be treated with hormone therapy, including oral medications, creams, and gels.

Lori was prescribed metformin, a prescription drug routinely used to control high blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes. It served her needs. “It just regulated my blood sugar and literally got my body to normal,” Lori said

“My hormones are leveled out and I’m like, oh, I feel good in my body finally for once,” she added.

Lori gushed about the relief she got from being appropriately treated post-diagnosis. “So, she literally changed my life,” she said about her new OB-GYN.

She is so passionate about the improvement proper treatment has made in her life that she has taken to quizzing friends about it to help them, “Even in conversation, if one of my friends is telling me something like ‘Oh I’m getting this, I’m getting that’ I’m like do you have PCOS,” she said. “You should get tested,” she advises them.

Resources

Journal of Reproduction and Fertility

Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology

World Health Organization: PCOS

The post Lori Harvey’s Endometriosis & PCOS Symptoms Were Dismissed appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Also known as Chef Lex, Aquino is the executive director of the Brownsville Community Culinary Center.

Chef Lex Talks Being a Culinary Instructor in Harlem

He has deep connections to the Harlem community. He shared what he learned observing as a community member educating congregants of a church on Saint Nicholas and as a culinary instructor at Harlem Children’s Zone. Chef Lex worked to educate the children in the Harlem community on how to eat healthier as a part of that role. He presented them with information on how to make better choices that would support their health.

“What I discovered in my time while I was here in Harlem working with such a special group is that food is a relationship that we have with ourselves,” said Aquino. “Every single day we have a conversation with ourselves through a plate, where we make a choice and typically, it’s a choice that we enjoy.”

How the Foods We Choose to Eat Reflect Our Lives and Cultures.

He emphasized the many parts of life that are reflected in the food we choose to eat. Our celebrations, our sadness, our sacrifices, our core values, according to Aquino, can all eventually be found at the bottom of our bellies. He described the way food intersects with our personal and collective histories. Food choices can reflect where you are from and who you are tied to. “We make a statement to ourselves of love, of care, of cultural connection, of communal connection, and so, no matter what systematic experiences that we’re having, we can always empower ourselves through the conversation of food,” he continued.

Some of the nutrition issues faced by Black communities are systemic, but others are modifiable with changed behavior. “Proper nutrition offers one of the most effective and least costly ways to decrease the burden of many diseases and their associated risk factors,” according to the Journal of Nutrition.

 We Can Address Risk Factors in Our Community By Starting With the Youngest Among Us

Risk factors can start earlier for some than others. The Journal of the American College of Nutrition reports that “Childhood overweight and obesity can be prevented through improved diet quality, thus warranting intervention programs aimed at increasing access to healthy foods and improving food choice.”

These interventions are beneficial for young Black people who are at a higher risk for. Sometimes they require support to shift their habits or go out of their comfort zones.

Aquino shared some unique experiences he had observing young people in the Harlem area who required intervention to make improved dietary choices. “I had the pleasure of bringing that conversation to some young folks in Harlem that needed empowerment,” he said. “They needed self-esteem to go beyond just what they were experiencing in their schools, experiencing in the streets, even experiencing amongst their friends.”

Chef Lex Talks About His Program in Brownsville

He has gone on to work in the community of Brownsville, Brooklyn.

At the Brownsville Community Culinary Center, he “provides free, world-class culinary vocational training to Brownsville residents.” “We are a workforce program primarily,” he said. “We pay our students to be a part of the training.”

“There’s no financial barriers for them as they’re going after a career path,” he added. His work contributes to the economic and physical well-being of the community.

Students Learn How to Use Nutrition as Preventive Medicine

The training provided to students in the program centers not only on flavor but also on function. Participants learn how to use nutrition as preventive medicine. They bring that to their professional work in the culinary field and into their homes. They learn to make balanced plates that provide fulfillment without being too saturated with fat, sugar, or carbohydrates.

Their efforts are sorely needed in an area plagued by illnesses associated with poor nutrition.

Brownsville Has a High Rate of Diabetes

“Brownsville is home to some of the most challenging demographics of folks, and of all of the five boroughs, we have the highest rate of diabetes,” he said. The New York Department of Health reports that “The rate of avoidable adult diabetes hospitalizations in Brownsville is the highest in the city, more than twice the Brooklyn and citywide rates” and “40% of Brownsville adults consume one or more sugary beverages per day, the second-highest rate in the city.”

Diabetes management efforts require the development of a balanced diet that can be maintained by the person managing the illness. He demonstrated how easy it is to create a recipe suitable for people with diabetes.

He prepared a light melon salad that gave zest without syrup and a flavorful pumpkin pesto salad that didn’t pack on the carbs.

The Importance of Incorporating Cultural Awareness into Healthy Meals

Aquino offered attendees examples of dishes they could recreate at home to mind their health without abandoning their taste buds. Cultural awareness can improve dietary outcomes. The dishes were developed in his Brownsville space to translate cultural ingredients into healthy meals for those affected by health issues.

“We are constantly testing recipes to make sure they are culturally relevant,” he said. He explained that you don’t have to douse something with sugar or salt to enjoy it. “The flavor equation is taste plus texture plus memory,” he said.

Aquino smiled as his helpers walked through the aisles, handing over plates to attendees who shared how much they enjoyed the snack. He shared how much the moment meant to him.

“I like to think. That, at the core of it, being healthy should equal being happy. Because what’s the point of taking care of yourself if you’re not able to enjoy yourself?”

Resources

Journal of Nutrition

Journal of the American College of Nutrition 

New York Department of Health: Brownsville

American Journal of Medicine

Clinical Liver Disease

The post Prevent Chronic Diseases Before They Happen appeared first on Black Health Matters.

According to the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, “This silent condition frequently remains undiagnosed until complicated by fracture.” It impacts the joints.

Leday described the many unpleasant pathways osteoarthritis takes to interrupt one’s life.

“It’ll manifest in wear and tear in your joints and grinding away at your cartilage. You’re going to have symptoms like pain, stiffness, swelling,” he said. “You’re going to see changes that develop slowly, and they only get worse. It does not get better, so any type of joint change that you’re going to experience is typically irreversible. And often it goes undiagnosed. Until it progresses to a point where it’s much more difficult to manage.”

Leday noted that the condition goes further than the body by highlighting its emotional and mental consequences connected to the fact that “OA may result in impairment of social function.” Isolation and limitation can trigger anxiety and depression.

The Risks for Osteoarthritis That You Should Know About

The risks for osteoarthritis rise with age, but there are other factors to be mindful of, including genetic and lifestyle factors. Comorbidities enhance the chance of being impacted by osteoarthritis. Obesity is a significant risk factor, as added weight places stress on one’s joints. “Overweight women are four times more likely to have the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis,” said Leday.

“For those who suffer from diabetes, that prevalence is actually twofold,” he added. Osteoarthritis can also have an adverse effect on attempts to manage blood sugar in those dealing with type 2 diabetes.

Leday Explains Some of the Approaches to Osteoarthritis Treatment

Initial treatment typically begins with lifestyle changes, such as adopting an exercise routine. If that is not enough to keep symptoms at bay, osteoarthritis is treated with surgical intervention.

Leday explained that there are different levels of surgical intervention, from “a minimally invasive approach to relieve some of the strain of the osteoarthritis” to full-fledged replacement procedures.

He Also Mentioned When You Might Want to Consider Surgical Options

He identified major signs that you should consider surgical intervention. “Number one, if you can no longer complete your routine daily task without help. Number two is if you have significant pain, pain that keeps you awake at night, despite using medications, pain that keeps you from being able to walk or bend over, and pain that isn’t relieved by rest.”

Some studies have shown that Black patients face higher levels of severe pain and a higher disability rate.

Listen to Your Body and Talk to Your Doctor

Leday emphasized the importance of being honest with your healthcare providers about what you’re experiencing. “One of the key notes that I’ve heard throughout these conversations and presentations today is to listen to your body,” he said. It is not enough to listen to your body. You have to honor what it is saying at all times, even when it might feel slightly embarrassing or might make you feel like you’re being a bother. Keeping a journal might help you communicate about what you’re feeling to your doctor.

He warned against admitting “it hurts like the devil” at home and downplaying discomfort as “a little stiff but it’s all right, it’s not that bad” while talking to doctors. “Be honest with yourself and be honest with your provider when you go in,” Leday added.

Osteoarthritis is Degenerative: Seek treatment as soon as possible.

Seeking treatment for osteoarthritis symptoms as soon as possible is the only way to ensure the most positive outcomes. “It often provides pain relief and functional improvement, so early diagnosis and treatment are important,” he said. “Delaying surgery may lower your quality of life, as well as osteoarthritis is degenerative, so it won’t get better. It actually may get worse.”

Some people assume joints added through surgery are worn out quickly and will automatically have to be replaced. But he pointed out that things have changed.

“The advancements in implant technology have surpassed what they were many years ago, so the joints you have today will last much longer than previously understood,” he continued.

He shared that progress in surgical interventions can help patients reach their goals and live more fulfilling lives. “We literally just had someone just this past year with our joints in their body run the New York Marathon, so this is an opportunity to, again, extend life,” said Leday.

“This is an opportunity to keep it moving.”

Resources

Journal of Bone Research

Reumatologia

Journal of the National Medical Association

The post Navigating Your Osteoarthritis Journey From Diagnosis to Surgery appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The research is still unfolding, but here’s what we know so far about how CAR-T therapy is being used to treat ovarian cancer.

What Makes Ovarian Cancer So Hard to Treat

According to the National Cancer Institute’s SEER Program, an estimated 20,890 women in the United States will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2025. About 12,730 are expected to die from the disease. The five-year relative survival rate is 51.6 percent, but that number drops significantly for Black women, who face unique barriers to early detection, timely treatment, and access to clinical trials.

As Dr. Oliver Dorigo, director of gynecologic oncology at Stanford Medicine, explained in a Stanford Cancer Institute report, “Ovarian cancer remains a very difficult disease to treat, especially when it recurs. Many patients are in dire need of better therapies.”

What Is CAR-T Cell Therapy?

CAR-T stands for chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. It’s a form of immunotherapy that modifies a patient’s own T cells, white blood cells that help fight disease, to better recognize and destroy cancer cells. Researchers collect T cells from the blood, reprogram them in a lab, and return them to the body, where they act as targeted cancer hunters.

This therapy has shown remarkable success in blood cancers like leukemia. Now, researchers are adapting CAR-T therapy for solid tumors, including ovarian cancer.

Inside the Promise of CAR-T Therapy

Stanford researchers, including Dr. Oliver Dorigo and Dr. Crystal Mackall, a leading expert in cell therapy, are testing CAR-T cells that target a protein called B7-H3, which is highly expressed in ovarian tumors. Their phase 1 trial, launched in late 2024, is exploring both intravenous and direct abdominal delivery. That abdominal approach could offer more precise targeting, since ovarian cancer often remains confined to the abdomen.

Early Results and What Comes Next

Initial findings from the trial are encouraging. Researchers saw early promise and learned from side effects in the first six patients, helping to refine the therapy.

Researchers are also exploring ways to improve CAR-T therapy for solid tumors, including ovarian cancer. That includes pairing it with other treatments and finding ways to help immune cells reach tumors more effectively.

What This Means for Black Women

While these therapies are still in early stages, they reflect a shift toward more personalized, immune-based treatment. Approaches like CAR-T could eventually offer longer-lasting results with fewer side effects.

But access matters. For Black women, who are often underrepresented in clinical trials and underserved in cancer care, these innovations won’t mean much unless they’re available to everyone. A recently updated PARP inhibitors trial, which tested a targeted therapy for ovarian cancer, included only 1.6 percent Black participants, according to data from ClinicalTrials.gov. Without diverse participation, researchers can’t fully understand how well these treatments work for the people who may need them most.

Breakthroughs Without Representation

Studies show that Black women are 25 percent less likely than white women to receive ovarian cancer treatment that follows national guidelines, according to a meta-analysis published by Oxford University Press.

Even when cancer stage and treatment type are similar, Black women often face worse outcomes. Many Black women experience resistance to chemotherapy and recurrence sooner than other groups.

These gaps in care aren’t explained by biology alone. Many Black women are diagnosed with high-grade serous tumors, the most aggressive form of ovarian cancer. Yet access to genetic testing, personalized treatment plans, and clinical trials remains limited. Some providers delay referrals or underestimate symptoms. Others fail to explain options in ways that feel trustworthy or culturally relevant.

As therapies advance, advocacy must ensure that Black women are included in research. They must be informed about emerging treatments and supported through care that respects their experiences and meets their needs.

And CAR-T cell therapy may be just that, a new beginning in a story that needs change.

Resources:

Ovarian Cancer — Cancer Stat Facts

Using CAR-T cells to treat ovarian cancer | Stanford Cancer Institute

Study Results | NCT02655016 | A Study of Niraparib (GSK3985771) Maintenance Treatment in Participants With Advanced Ovarian Cancer Following Response on Front-Line Platinum-Based Chemotherapy | ClinicalTrials.gov

Race, Socioeconomic Status, and Health-Care Access Disparities in Ovarian Cancer Treatment and Mortality: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis | JNCI Cancer Spectrum | Oxford Academic

The post CAR-T Therapy Is Changing Ovarian Cancer Care appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 20,890 newly diagnosed cases of ovarian cancer in 2025, and 12,730 women will die from the disease. An estimated one woman in 91 will develop ovarian cancer during her lifetime.

According to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance, the condition is most frequently diagnosed in women between the ages of 55 and 64.

Ovarian Cancer By the Numbers

When one is diagnosed and treated in the earliest stages, the five-year survival rate is over 90 percent. Due to ovarian cancer’s non-specific symptoms and lack of early detection tests, only 20 percent of all cases are diagnosed at this early stage. If caught in stage III or higher, the survival rate can be as low as 30.6 percent.

Due to the nature of the disease, each woman diagnosed with ovarian cancer has a different profile, and it is impossible to provide a general prognosis. The five-year ovarian cancer survival rate for white women is 50.6%; in Black patients, it’s 43.2%.

How Ovarian Cancer Impacts Black Women

The journal Obstetrics & Gynecology Health Disparities in Ovarian Care did a deep dive into the differences between Black, white, Asian, and Native American populations, Hispanic populations, when it came to diagnosis, care, and mortality. They looked at several years, going back to 1985.

Black patients overall and any other patient with a low socioeconomic background had worse outcomes.

“Black patients had 17–18% worse survival compared with White patients. Potential explanations include earlier age and later stage at diagnosis and disparities across the entire care continuum of ovarian cancer: diagnosis, treatment, and precision testing.”

Other factors that impacted treatment, according to this literature review, included the type of insurance the patient had. If it is non-private, the patient is less likely to have received the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guideline-concordant ovarian cancer treatment. This resulted in a 10% increase in the patient’s mortality risk. Non-private insurance also impacts access to genetic testing.

If patients lived in rural areas, who didn’t want to travel, or were treated in a lower volume hospital by a surgeon doing fewer surgeries, they received 16-31% NCCN guideline-concordant ovarian cancer treatment.

Bottom line: it is not as simple as a late diagnosis. It is who is treating us, and where we are treated. And if we are getting the correct protocols.

Who is at Risk For Ovarian Cancer?

According to the Ovarian Research Alliance, about 25% of ovarian cancer cases diagnosed are hereditary. And they can be primarily traced to BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 gene mutations (Black women can also have them). The connection is usually a history of breast cancer.

Other risk factors include:

• Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer
• Family history of ovarian, breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer.
• A personal history of cancer or endometriosis
• Early menstruation, no childbirth, first childbirth after 30, late menopause, no oral contraceptives, or infertility increase the risk.
• HRT: Long-term use increases risk, especially with combined estrogen and progestin.
• Obesity is associated with a higher ovarian cancer risk, especially post-menopause.

The American Cancer Society Cancer Facts & Figures Report states, “Some women at high risk because of a strong family history or inherited genetic mutations may consider preventive surgery to remove both ovaries and fallopian tubes (prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy), which greatly reduces risk.”

 What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a disease in which malignant or cancerous cells are found in the ovaries. An ovary is one of two small, almond-shaped organs located on each side of the uterus that store eggs or germ cells and produce female hormones estrogen and progesterone.

According to The American Cancer Society, however, the disease was previously believed to start only in the cells of the ovaries. But ovarian cancer may also begin in the fallopian tubes.

Types of Ovarian Cancer

Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

The majority of ovarian cancers are categorized here (85-90%) and can start in the cells of the fallopian tube or the ovaries. The cells are further classified based on genetic analysis into the following categories:

• High-grade serous carcinoma (This is the most common type.)
• Low-grade serous carcinoma
• Endometrioid carcinoma
• Clear cell carcinoma
• Mucinous carcinoma

Primary Peritoneal Carcinoma

This is a rare cancer that is related to epithelial ovarian cancer. However, it may have spread to the abdomen.

Fallopian Tube Cancer

Fallopian tube cancer is similar to epithelial ovarian cancer and often spreads to the ovary and peritoneum.

Ovarian Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors

Ovarian sex cord-stromal tumors (SCSTs) are a group of tumors that originate either from the sex cord or stromal cells:

• Sex cord cells are a type of epithelial cell that eventually develop into ovaries (in females) and testes (in males).
• Stromal cells form the connective tissue that gives the ovaries structure.

Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors

Most ovarian germ cell tumors are benign, but some are cancerous and may be life-threatening. Less than 2% of ovarian cancers are germ cell tumors.

• Dysgerminoma is rare; it is the most common ovarian germ cell cancer.

What Are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect, especially in the early stages. This is partly because these two small, almond-shaped organs are deep within the abdominal cavity, one on each side of the uterus.

According to the Mayo Clinic, these are some of the potential signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer:

• Quickly feeling full when eating
• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Weight loss
• Feeling the need to urinate urgently or often
• Fatigue
• Discomfort in the pelvic area
• Back pain
• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation

Make an appointment with your HCP if your symptoms are persistent.

Getting Evaluated By Your HCP

Your HCP may need to perform several tests before there is a conclusive diagnosis. They may include:

• A pelvic exam
• Blood tests. The most common tumor marker is a blood test called the CA-125.
• Genetic tests
• Surgery

If Your Results Come Back Positive

Consult a gynecologic oncologist immediately. They may want to review your current test and order additional ones, along with the results. However, the only way to more accurately confirm ovarian cancer is with a biopsy, a procedure in which the doctor takes a sample of the tumor and examines it under a microscope.

Getting Diagnosed

Make the most of your appointment. Come with some questions ready after the initial shock has worn off. Or bring a supportive wingperson with you. A significant other, sister, BFF, or work friend, let them ask the questions you have scribbled in your notebook. But we’ve got a cheat sheet down below to get you started, and you can add more from here.

• What type of ovarian cancer do I have?
• Has my cancer spread beyond the ovaries?
• What is the cancer’s stage (extent), and what does that mean?
• Will I need other tests before we can decide on treatment?
• Will I be able to have children after my treatment?

• Should I think about genetic testing?
• What are my clinical trial options?
• This is overwhelming. Where can I find support?

Partner With Your HCP

After your diagnosis, you’ll partner with your oncologist to choose a customized treatment plan that works for you. The treatment will vary based on the stage of the disease, your age, and your health condition. The ACS points out that most ovarian cancer patients may require surgery. But depending on the type of ovarian cancer and how advanced it is, you might need other types of treatment as well, either before or after surgery, or sometimes both.

Treatment Options May Include:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation
• Targeted Drug Therapy
• Hormone Therapy
• Immonotherapy

Consider Genetic Testing

In an article in Nature, Sophia George explores solutions for why Black women have lower survival rates and higher rates of recurrence. In examining data from the NCI, she noticed that we have higher rates of rarer cancers.

“Black women are more likely to have germ-cell and stromal-cell tumours, and less likely to have epithelial ovarian cancers,” she wrote. Despite these differences, new approaches to clinical care — including genomic medicine — are underutilized in this population. ”

Then there are new treatments like PARP inhibitors, but when only 1.6% participants in the trial are, George says, “the efficacy of PARP inhibitors in Black women remains poorly characterized.”

Finally, she notes that Black patients are less likely to have their tumors analyzed. “This exacerbates disparities in the treatment that they receive and limits cancer-prevention opportunities in family members.”

Using Black women’s poorer response to platinum-based chemotherapy as an example, George believes that genetics may play a role. She argues that there is a similar type of inherited breast and ovarian gene variant in West African, Black American, and white women.

“But certain subpopulations of Black women³ experience hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndromes at rates comparable to or greater than those seen in the Ashkenazi Jewish population, which has considerably higher rates of these cancers than the global average.”

We do know some families within our communities that have been hit hard by breast and ovarian cancers. They could benefit from genetic testing.

Five Preventive Strategies to Fight Ovarian Cancer

Genetic testing also provides insights that enable individuals to identify preventive measures they can take to reduce their risk of ovarian cancer. Here are five that the ORA suggests:

• Using oral contraception for five or more years can reduce ovarian cancer risk by 50%.
• Multiple pregnancies or your first full-term birth by age 26 reduces your risk, and breastfeeding does, too.
• Removal of your Fallopian tubes (Bilateral Salpingectomy). It reduces the risk of cancer forming in the fallopian tubes while preserving fertility with the help of IVF.
• Removal of Fallopian Tubes and Ovaries Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy significantly reduces risk. There is a slight chance you can still get a rare kind of ovarian cancer.  Especially beneficial when performed by age 35-40 for women with BRCA1 mutations or by age 40-45 for those with BRCA2 mutations.
• Hysterectomy and Tubal Ligation: Hysterectomy may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by 33%, and tubal ligation by up to 67%.

Resources:

American Cancer Society: Types of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian Research Alliance: Prevention and Risks 

Mayo Clinic: Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Health Disparities in Ovarian Care

The post The Silent Killer: Black Women & Ovarian Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Question That Started It All

According to Deadline, an Italian journalist named Federica Polidoro asked this question: “What was lost during the politically correct era? And what can we expect in Hollywood? Now that the Me Too and the Black Lives Matter Movement are done [according to her].

Garfield was stunned into silence. Edebiri started absorbing the unexpected macroaggressions. Roberts, the Oscar-winning actress, stepped in and said, “I’m sorry, with your dark glasses on, I’m not sure who you are talking to.”

That’s when Polidoro said “Andrew and Julia,” specifically leaving Ayo out. Then she repeated the entire question…again. The duo looked at one another. Garfield was clearly not touching that question.

I Am Going to Answer Anyway

Before Edebiri replied, she mentioned that she was curious as to why she wasn’t included in the discussion. Was it purposeful? Crickets. She received no response at all from Polidoro, as if she were not sitting there.

But the award-winning actress, primarily known for the Hulu series The Bear, said, “I don’t think it’s done. It’s not done at all. I think maybe hashtags might not be used as much, but I do think that there’s work being done by activists, by people, every day, that’s beautiful, important work that’s not finished, that’s really, really active for a reason, for a reason, because this world is really charged,” she continued.

“Maybe there’s not mainstream coverage in the way that there might have been daily headlines in the way that it might have been eight or so years ago, but I don’t think that means that the work is done. That’s what I would say.”

Garfield and Roberts agreed that although coverage is not as constant on both fronts as it once was, #MeToo, started by Tarana Burke, and #BlackLivesMatter are not over.

Some Journalists (Still) Just Don’t Understand

Reactions on social media to this interview have been swift. Some have gone to Polidoro’s social accounts to leave a few comments of their own. It prompted a statement that doesn’t make things any better for her. She mentions her long journalistic record, but never explains her erasure of Edebiri.

Reminds us of a specific person talking to a qualified reporter recently, as if she didn’t belong.

But Edebiri Will Be Moving On to Her Next Big Thing

Next spring,  the 29-year-old Edebiri is coming to Broadway. She will be starring opposite Don Cheadle in a revival of Proof. This is a Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning play by David Auburn about struggling with mathematical genius and mental illness. Edebiri will be doing the teeth gnashing after caring with her seriously ill father (Cheadle), who battled an illness related to his psychological well-being.

The title of the play comes from someone discovering some mathematical formula that is “proof” of some theory, and I suspect Edebiri will have her own tour de force every night.

So she can’t get too distracted by this dustup.

 

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And every time someone says a Black woman handles some slight with “grace,” I think about the connection between suppressed rage and autoimmune diseases. It can’t cost us our health. But that’s a story for another day,

The post Ayo Edebiri Will Not Be Ignored appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The answer is not simple, but it is evolving. While no single ingredient can stop cancer, research continues to show that diet may influence how prostate cancer behaves, especially in its early stages. In a healthcare system that often misses the mark for Black men, food offers a way to take back some control.

What the MEAL Study Taught Us

The Men’s Eating and Living (MEAL) study was one of the first large-scale trials to explore whether increasing vegetable intake could influence prostate cancer progression. Men with early-stage prostate cancer were randomized to receive counseling aimed at raising their vegetable consumption to at least seven servings per day, with a focus on cruciferous and carotenoid-rich vegetables. The control group received written dietary guidance without structured support.

After two years, researchers found no significant difference in tumor progression. However, the study demonstrated that men can change how they eat and maintain those changes. That foundation has shaped newer studies with stronger outcomes.

What We Know Now About Diet and Prostate Cancer

Recent research from Johns Hopkins has added clarity to how diet may shape prostate cancer outcomes. In a study of 886 men with low-grade prostate cancer on active surveillance, researchers found that those with higher Healthy Eating Index scores were less likely to see their cancer progress. For every 12.5-point increase in HEI score, the risk of moving to a more aggressive stage dropped—15 percent for grade group 2, and 30 percent for grade group 3.

The Healthy Eating Index is a way to measure how well someone’s diet aligns with national nutrition guidelines. It doesn’t require strict meal plans or expensive ingredients. Instead, it favors everyday foods that support the body and reduce inflammation. That can include familiar staples like collards, black-eyed peas, sweet potatoes, okra, brown rice, and leafy greens. It’s not about cutting everything out. It’s about building meals that work with your body, not against it.

Foods That Support Prostate Health

Certain foods may help the body respond better to prostate cancer. They won’t cure it, but they can support your health in ways that matter.

Tomatoes, especially when cooked, release a compound called lycopene. It’s an antioxidant that may help slow cancer growth. Think tomato sauce, stews, or roasted tomatoes. Heat makes it easier for your body to absorb and use.

Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts contain natural chemicals that help clear out toxins. These are easy to steam, sauté, or toss into a stir-fry.

Fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in healthy fats that calm inflammation. Two servings a week is a good place to start.

Green tea and pomegranate juice are packed with antioxidants that may help protect prostate cells. Some studies suggest they can help lower PSA levels, which is one way doctors track prostate cancer. PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen, a protein made by the prostate. When levels rise, it can be a sign that cancer is growing or becoming more aggressive.

Pumpkin seeds offer zinc, which supports prostate function. They’re easy to sprinkle on oatmeal, salads, or roasted vegetables.

Berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are full of nutrients that fight stress in the body. Fresh or frozen, they’re simple to add to breakfast or snacks.

Leafy greens like spinach and kale help reduce inflammation and support overall health. You can blend them into smoothies, cook them down with garlic, or serve them with grains.

For a more detailed breakdown of foods to eat and avoid, explore the University of California, San Francisco’s Diet Recommendations Pamphlet.

Why This Matters for Black Men

Black men are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer as white men. According to the American Cancer Society’s 2025 report, they face a 16 percent higher mortality rate despite only a 4 percent higher incidence. This gap reflects systemic failures in early detection, access to guideline-based care, and inclusion in clinical trials.

Between 1991 and 2022, cancer mortality among Black men aged 40 to 59 declined by up to 67 percent. That progress is real, but it is not universal. It stems from reduced smoking rates and treatment advances, not from structural change. Black men continue to be diagnosed later, treated less aggressively, and excluded from the research that shapes care.

Lifestyle shifts offer a form of agency in a system that rarely prioritizes Black health. Food is not a replacement for treatment, but it can be a powerful ally.

Steps You Can Take Today

If you or someone you love is navigating prostate cancer, here are shifts worth considering:

• Add fatty fish like salmon or sardines twice a week.
• Use olive or avocado oil instead of seed oils.
• Incorporate beans, lentils, and whole grains regularly.
• Cut back on fried and ultra-processed foods.
• Include cooked tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables, and berries in weekly meals.
• Sprinkle in flaxseed or chia for plant-based omega-3s.

Always consult your care team before starting supplements or making major dietary changes.

Changing your diet will not erase a diagnosis. But it can support your body, your treatment, and your future. For Black men facing higher risks and fewer resources, food is care. It’s a way to stay present, stay grounded, and stay involved in your own healing.

Resources:

A Randomized Trial of Diet in Men with Early Stage Prostate Cancer on Active Surveillance: Rationale and Design of the Men’s Eating and Living (MEAL) Study (CALGB 70807 [Alliance]) – PMC

Slowing Cancer Through Better Eating | Johns Hopkins Medicine

P8-II-Diet_Guide_web [2].pdf

Cancer statistics for African American and Black people, 2025

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Here’s what you might not hear enough: what you do after a diagnosis matters. And movement, the kind you do every day, can help you live longer.

What the Science Says

According to a 2025 report from the American Cancer Society (ACS), prostate cancer is now the most diagnosed cancer among men in the U.S. More than 313,000 cases are expected this year. And while early-stage cases often have high survival rates, advanced-stage diagnoses are rising, especially among Black men.

Research shows that movement can make a real difference. A 2021 study published in JAMA Oncology found that men with prostate cancer who engaged in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) during active surveillance saw improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness and in markers linked to slower disease progression.

At Memorial Sloan Kettering, researchers studied whether exercise could affect prostate cancer directly. This study examined how men perceived their condition and how their tumors behaved.

Men scheduled for surgery walked on treadmills at home for about four weeks. Those who exercised at least 225 minutes a week showed changes in two key biomarkers:

•  Ki-67, which tracks how fast cancer cells are dividing.
•  PSA, which signals prostate cancer activity and risk.

Lower levels of both suggest slower tumor growth. Most participants were inactive before the trial, and more than a third identified as nonwhite. The exercise was safe, consistent, and done entirely at home.

While the trial didn’t measure survival, it showed that movement can influence the biology of the disease.

What Black Men Are Up Against

Prostate cancer affects Black men more severely because of delayed diagnoses, limited access, and medical systems that don’t always respond with urgency or equity.

In our community, people aren’t always told what to watch for. Screenings come late. Treatment isn’t always aggressive, and research often leaves us out. Movement won’t fix everything, but it helps. It supports sleep, stress, strength, and survival. It’s something we can do while the rest catch up.

Move With Purpose

You don’t need to run miles or lift heavy. The CDC recommends:

• 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, like walking, dancing, or yard work.
• 75 minutes of vigorous activity like jogging or cycling.
• Two days of strength training for major muscle groups.

For people with prostate cancer, these guidelines still apply. They should be adjusted based on energy levels, treatment stage, and safety. Movement doesn’t have to be intense. It can be light, structured, or flexible. Even seated stretches, short walks, or using household items for resistance count.

If treatment side effects are slowing you down, start where you are. Stretch in the morning. Walk at lunch. Dance with your kids. What matters is consistency and paying attention to what your body can handle.

Talk to your doctor or a physical therapist about what’s safe for you. Ask about programs that understand your needs. Some hospitals offer exercise oncology support, and many community centers now host classes designed for survivors.

Your Strongest Resource

The journey won’t look the same for everyone. Some find peace in morning jogs. Others prefer walking, stretching, or lifting light weights. Exercise helps, but it’s not just about routines. It’s about intention. About finding what motivates you, what feels good, and what fits into your life.

If you’re wondering what to carry with you, bring purpose, trust in your body, and the instinct to keep moving when things feel uncertain.

That’s where the progress can begin.

Resources:

Key Statistics for Prostate Cancer | Prostate Cancer Facts | American Cancer Society

Effects of Exercise on Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Biochemical Progression in Men With Localized Prostate Cancer Under Active Surveillance: The ERASE Randomized Clinical Trial | Cardiology | JAMA Oncology | JAMA Network

Can Exercise Impact Prostate Cancer? A First of its Kind Clinical Trial | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Adult Activity: An Overview | Physical Activity Basics | CDC

The post Regular Exercise May Boost Prostate Cancer Survival appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Obesity adds another layer of risk, intensifying the likelihood of aggressive tumors and late-stage diagnoses.

How Obesity Alters Cancer Behavior

Obesity affects how the body functions, including how it responds to cancer. Fat tissue can stir up inflammation and shift hormone levels, which may help prostate cancer grow or spread. These changes can make the disease harder to treat, especially when it’s caught late.

A recent study published in BMC Cancer found that men who gained weight after a prostate cancer diagnosis had a 64 percent higher risk of dying from the disease. Researchers believe this may reflect underlying illness, treatment side effects, or disease progression.

Another study, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, found that men with obesity were more likely to die from prostate cancer, even when they received regular screenings. Researchers did not identify a single cause, but they pointed to challenges in detection.

PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein measured in the blood to help spot prostate cancer early. In people with obesity, PSA levels can be diluted by a larger blood volume, which may make results appear lower than they actually are. That can delay follow-up testing.

Additionally, rectal exams may be harder to perform accurately in men with obesity, which can affect how well the prostate is assessed during screening. These screening limitations can allow the cancer to grow before it is caught, making treatment more difficult and survival less likely.

Diagnoses Are Rising, Especially in Late Stages

Data from ACS shows that prostate cancer rates, which had been declining for years, began increasing around 2014. Between then and 2021, new cases rose by about 3 percent annually. The most concerning trend is in advanced-stage diagnoses, which are growing fastest in men over 55. These late-stage cases are harder to treat and carry a much lower chance of survival.

The same report estimates that men diagnosed early have a five-year survival rate close to 100 percent. For those whose cancer has already spread, that number drops to just 38 percent. Researchers point to reduced screening and delayed detection as key factors behind the shift, especially in communities with limited access to care.

Screening Isn’t Reaching Those Who Need It Most

In 2012, federal guidelines advised against routine PSA testing, which led to fewer screenings and more late-stage diagnoses, especially among Black men. Providers became less likely to offer the test, and insurance coverage grew more limited. Even after the guidelines were updates in 2018, screening rates haven’t fully recovered. The effects of that rollback are still felt today, especially within our community.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation now urges Black men to begin screening discussions between ages 40 and 45. The American Cancer Society recommends starting at 45 for those at higher risk, including men with a family history. Despite these guidelines, many Black men still face barriers to screening, including cost and limited provider access.

The Policy Pivot

In 2023, lawmakers introduced the PSA Screening for HIM Act. The bill aimed to require insurance plans to cover prostate cancer screenings for high-risk men without out-of-pocket costs. It named Black men and those with a family history as priority groups and called for screening to begin at age 40. Although it didn’t pass, it marked a shift. For the first time, federal policy acknowledged the survival gap and the need to screen earlier.

In 2025, the bill returned as H.R.1300 in the 119th Congress. Sponsored by Rep. Neal Dunn and co-sponsored by Rep. Yvette Clarke and others, it calls for mandatory coverage of PSA screenings starting at age 40 for men at high risk. That includes Black men, men with a family history, and those whose providers identify elevated risk due to obesity.

The bill removes cost-sharing, which means no co-pays or deductibles for eligible screenings. It also highlights the contrast in outcomes. Nearly 100 percent survive when caught early; just 37 percent when caught late.

The bill is still in committee, but its message matters. It shows that these concerns are being heard and could be acted on in the future. Policy is beginning to reflect what Black men, and their families have long known. Early screening saves lives, and equity starts with access.

Resources:

Press Releases

Weight gain or loss after diagnosis and survival outcomes in prostate cancer: a meta-analysis | BMC Cancer | Full Text

Growing implications of obesity for prostate cancer risk and mortality: where do we go from here? | JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute | Oxford Academic

Archived: Prostate Cancer: Screening | United States Preventive Services Taskforce

Prostate Cancer Foundation Highlights Evidence-Based Prostate Cancer Screening Guidelines for Black Men | Prostate Cancer Foundation

American Cancer Society Recommendations for Prostate Cancer Early Detection | American Cancer Society

Text – H.R.1826 – 118th Congress (2023-2024): PSA Screening for HIM Act | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

Text – H.R.1300 – 119th Congress (2025-2026): PSA Screening for HIM Act | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

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Engaging in drinking and driving is a sign of “problem drinking,” something that can deeply harm Black women’s physical health due to its adverse side effects.

You Can Have A Problem With Drinking Without Having A Drinking Problem

Being a person who identifies as an alcoholic and being a person grappling with problem drinking or alcohol abuse are not synonymous. Huger, for example, said plainly, “I’m not an alcoholic, let’s be clear,” during a clip that aired during the reunion episode of The Real Housewives of Potomac.

Huger chose to enroll in a Florida treatment center before her sentencing; the show did not specify the type of treatment center. She cited a desire to “get to the bottom” of “taking antidepressants and drinking” as her reasoning for taking that action.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reports that “Combining alcohol with certain medications, particularly those with sedative effects, can increase the risk of adverse events.”

RHOP’s Grand Dame is not the only Black woman in the public eye with challenges connected to alcohol. Ari Lennox has shared that she is sober. Paula Patton credited alcohol with introducing and festering a level of “chaos” in her life. Naomi Campbell has been open about her commitment to staying sober.

What Is Alcohol Abuse?

According to a 2024 report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), alcohol abuse is rising among women in the United States. There has been a rise in alcohol related deaths in the past seven years, including traffic accidents. Traditionally, men have had higher rates of alcohol abuse, but women are increasing their usage.

Alcohol abuse is the continued use of alcohol with negative consequences. If your health, finances, or social life is hurt by alcohol use, then you might be abusing it. Excessive drinking can lead to Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), a serious issue. This is not a one-size-fits-all problem. “Unhealthy alcohol use ranges from mild to severe,” per the Mayo Clinic. The ranges of AUD include categories like problem drinking, binge drinking, and excessive drinking. Each can cause problems in its own way.

The threshold for meeting alcohol abuse is not as apparent as that of substance abuse, which includes illegal drugs. Alcohol is a social drug that gets glorified. It disappears into wine mom culture and cocktail mixers. “Drinking is more subtle. So, it makes it harder for you to identify and recognize that difference,” Sober Black Girls Club co-founder told ESSENCE in 2023. But alcohol is still a drug with serious side effects. Some people are engaging in sober curious behavior to evaluate the role of alcohol in their lives.

How Does Alcohol Abuse Impact Black Women?

Physical effects of alcohol abuse can take a higher toll on Black women. It causes inflammation, weakens the immune system, and hurts the liver. Some of the more serious physical effects include a higher risk of certain cancers. Studies have found that women are more sensitive to alcohol related brain damage than men.

Women compared to men suffer a greater number and severity of health consequences attributed to AUD,” and “The burden of adverse health attributed to Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD) is higher among Black compared to White women,” per the Journal of Biodemography and Social Biology.

“African American women experience high prevalence of alcohol-related consequences,” and “are disproportionately affected by negative alcohol-related outcomes,” according to the Journal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse.

Alcohol consumption has been identified as a risk factor for breast cancer, as well. This is particularly troubling for Black women, who have a higher breast cancer mortality rate.

What Are The Alcohol Abuse Risk Factors?

Prolonged stress and childhood trauma can increase one’s chances of developing alcohol use disorder. Risk factors for alcohol abuse can include genetic factors, too. In some studies, parental alcohol use can predict the alcohol use of children.

Age is a risk factor. Young people are at the highest risk from 18 to 21, but seniors are facing challenges they didn’t face recently. “Heavy drinking and AUD are least common among adults aged 65 and older compared to other age groups, but rates have been increasing,” according to the Journal of Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews.

Can Generational Trauma Factor Into Alcohol Abuse?

When Huger was arrested, body cam footage was recorded that featured her stating that she was Thomas Jefferson’s concubine. That may have been a coded reference to racial trauma. “The relationships between trauma and SUDs can be more pronounced in minoritized women, such as Black and Indigenous women, who must also navigate societal oppression and discrimination due to race/ethnicity and sex/gender,” according to the Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment.

What Treatment Options Are Available For Alcohol Abuse?

There are a variety of treatments available for alcohol abuse, including therapy. Inpatient treatment options, like the type of facility Huger checked into, and outpatient treatment options have been proven effective.

Medications are on the market to aid in the treatment of alcohol use disorder as well.

Resources

Social vs Problem Drinking Defined

Alcohol-Medication Interactions

Deaths From Excessive Alcohol Use 

Journal of Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Science

Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment.

Journal of Ethnicity in Substance Abuse.

The post Alcohol Abuse Is Rising: How Black Women Are Negatively Impacted appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“This is a disease that worsens over time. It is known to cause permanent lung damage, and COPD is also a debilitating condition that impacts people both physically and mentally,” said Margaret Alabi, Director, Patient Advocacy, US & Global Dermatology Regeneron.

She described the various ways it can impact patients as it progresses through their bodies.  

“Symptoms of COPD. They include breathlessness, excessive mucus production, cough, and chest tightening. This is caused by a decrease in the lungs function to operate. This also causes exhaustion and fatigue,” said Alabi.

“Over time, people who are living with COPD often feel embarrassed by these symptoms, because when they’re out in public, their movement is limited, and it’s very challenging for folks to understand what’s wrong with them,” Alabi continued. “It impacts the everyday activities, like walking. Walking to the mailbox can be a major task, standing up to cook your favorite meal, or even getting dressed up for the day can be a major task.”

“1 in 5 people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) experience social isolation,” according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. Alabi described the way that isolation can affect COPD patients and their loved ones.

“That then begins to impact a person’s mental health, so people living with and or suffering from COPD are not the only people that have to be considered, but also their family, friends, and caretakers that are impacted by this condition,” she continued.

Eugena revealed that she was heavily restricted in her day-to-day activities following her diagnosis.

It threw her that it was chronic. She joked that she had refused to go into nursing after her mother chose the profession, yet she ended up spending all her time dealing with doctors. She worked to get answers about her severe symptoms.

“Black individuals in the United States may be preferentially affected by COPD, with their prevalence and morbidity varying widely among subgroups because of biological, socioeconomic, and cultural factors,” according to the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. That is not always reflected in the way that they are treated, as Schmitt pointed out in the conversation. “You think of COPD. You don’t think of women right away. You don’t think a Black woman right away,” she said.

Eugena revealed what it was like navigating through the healthcare system with COPD. “They gave me headaches between the co-pays and what they don’t cover,” she said. “It got no better when I became disabled and then had to switch to government insurance, okay? Better known as Medicaid and Medicare, again, here we go, even more headaches, even more restrictions, even more lack of cooperation.”

She refused to try to improve her situation. She followed up, asked questions, and persisted with treatments.  

She advised those managing COPD to listen to their bodies to prevent bouts. “Look at the process of what’s happening with you and learn to recognize the signs of it beginning,” said Eugena. That can help you communicate with your healthcare providers and potentially live beyond blanket restrictions.

Schmitt asked Eugena how she manages to determine the extent of her needs while managing a chronic illness. “How are you managing your day-to-day, and how do you know when something is off and different, and that you need to talk to your doctor?” she asked. “If I can make it to the bathroom and back without breathing heavy, it’s a good day.

Some days. When I wake up, I know before I get out of bed because. My lungs feel like they hurt. And I know that’s pretty bad,” Eugena replied.

Each day for Eugena is different, but some feel like wins.

Eugena advised those managing COPD to take an organized approach to seeking help, to maintain their ability to engage in some of the activities they enjoy.  

“Once you get your wits about you. You’ve got to come up with a game plan for advocating for yourself. Write down what you don’t understand, what you don’t know, what you need to find out. Talk to your physician. Work with them if you’re not comfortable with that person. Go get another one,” she said.

Schmitt acknowledged the professional approach Eugena took to managing her care. “You actually said to me that you became your own client,” said Schmitt. Eugena confirmed this. “I became my own client, and I fought for myself the way I fought for people over the year,” she said. Eugena offered more advice on how the Harlemites could present themselves to become their own clients as well.

Eugena confirmed this. “I became my own client, and I fought for me the way I fought for people over the year,” she said. Eugena offered more advice on how the Harlemites could present themselves to become their own clients as well.

Eugenia’s suggestion: Study your condition. Study how it functions with you. Learn the telltale signs because all of these things are your tools to help you maintain and improve your situation.

Eugena illustrated her progress by reminding the room that there was a time she wouldn’t have been able to attend the packed event. “I could not leave my apartment. I could barely move in my apartment,” she said, turning to the audience. “I ran up those stairs this morning.”

Schmitt ended the conversation by driving home the lessons. “What’s the one thing that, as we wrap up, that you want everyone to know if they remember nothing else, you said?” she asked Eugena.

Eugena replied confidently by telling the room plainly, “You can tame this beast.”

Resources:

Journal of the American Medical Association

American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine

The post Living With COPD: A Story Of Resilience, Advocacy, And Care appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The Cost of Caregiving

The caregivers in our communities are managing medications, coordinating appointments, cooking, cleaning, and offering emotional support. They’re doing all this while working jobs, raising children, and navigating a healthcare system that often fails them. And they’re doing it with little rest, little recognition, and almost no room to breathe.

In 2025, more than 63 million Americans are family caregivers, according to a report by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving. But Black caregivers are carrying more than their share of the weight. As stated by The Senior Alliance, Black caregivers spend about 1.3 more years in caregiving roles than the national average and devote over nine extra hours per week to caregiving tasks. The percentage of Black women in caregiving roles is 6% higher than the national average.

And while Black caregivers are just as likely as others to be caring for a relative, those relatives are 25% less likely to be their parents. That matters. It shows how caregiving in our communities isn’t only about caring for mom or dad, it’s about stepping in for siblings, cousins, aunties, or elders who aren’t blood but are still family. Being there for others, not just those who raised you. It’s who needs you.

The Toll on Body and Mind

Caregiving is often framed as noble, but rarely as depleting. That needs to change.
According to Forbes, caregivers experience significantly higher rates of health problems than non-caregivers. These include elevated blood pressure, heart disease, sleep disorders, and chronic stress-related illnesses. Depression and anxiety rates among caregivers are two to three times higher than in the general population.

And the longer the caregiving continues, the deeper the toll. As reported by AARP, one in five caregivers now rates their own health as “fair” or “poor.” A quarter are taking on debt, and one in five cannot afford basic needs like food.

This is not sustainable. And for Black caregivers, the stakes are even higher.

Black Women Are Holding It Down, At a Cost

Black women are overrepresented in care work, both paid and unpaid. While Black men also show up as caregivers, the burden falls most heavily on the women in our communities.

According to the National Partnership for Women & Families, if their unpaid caregiving hours were compensated, their labor would be worth $80 billion annually.

Unfortunately, that labor is undervalued. Black women are more likely to be the sole caregiver in their household, more likely to care for multiple people, and more likely to do it without paid leave or outside support. They’re also more likely to delay their own care, push through exhaustion, and internalize the idea that rest is something you earn, not something you need.

The result? Higher rates of stress-related illness. More missed doctor’s appointments. More caregivers are getting sick themselves and have fewer opportunities to recover, reset, or even be seen. Caregiving isn’t the enemy. But ignoring its toll is. By identifying its stressors, we make space for caregivers in our communities to be cared for, not just relied on.

What Self-Care Really Means And Why It’s So Hard

Let’s be clear, self-care isn’t only bubble baths and scented candles. It’s not a marketing slogan. It’s the act of preserving your health, your sanity, and your identity in the face of relentless demands.

For Black caregivers, self-care often feels impossible. There can be guilt and pressure involved.

You might find yourself saying:

• “We take care of our own in this family.”
• “If I don’t do it, who will?”
• “I promised I’d always be there.”

These beliefs are rooted in love, but they can lead to burnout, resentment, and serious health consequences. It’s time to challenge them.

Reclaiming Self-Care

Self-care starts with honesty, not just about what you need, but about what’s getting in the way.

Are you skipping meals? Ignoring your own doctor’s appointments? Feeling resentful but afraid to say it out loud? You’re not alone, and you’re not failing. You’re human.

Recognize That You Matter

You’re not just a caregiver. You’re a whole person. Your health, your joy, your rest. They matter. Don’t postpone them for “someday.” Prioritize them now.

Name What You Need

Just like those you care for, your needs shift. Day to day. Moment to moment. Whether it’s sleep, support, a good meal, time, or silence, you’re allowed to name it, claim it, and act on it.

Ask for Help Without Apology

Be specific. Ask a friend to run errands, ask a sibling to take a shift, or ask your community to show up. People often want to help; they need direction. You’re incredible for stepping into the caregiving role, but no one should expect you to be a superhero. Put down the cape and lean on your community.

Protect Your Health

Schedule your appointments. Take your medications. Eat nourishing food. Drink water. Sleep. Your body isn’t a machine built to serve others. It needs care too. And you already know how to care deeply. That wisdom applies to you as well.

Find Joy in Small Moments

You may not be able to hop on a plane and escape your worries, but joy lives in the everyday. Five minutes of quiet. A walk with your thoughts. A playlist that makes you sing every word. Joy isn’t always prescribed, but it is medicine. And you deserve to feel it.

Join a Support Network

Seek out caregiver groups that reflect your experience. As recommended by The Senior Alliance, culturally affirming support networks offer connection, validation, and practical help.

Challenge the Guilt

Guilt in caregiving is rooted in lies. It tells you rest is wrong. That asking for help means you’re failing and that your worth is tied to how much you overextend. Here’s the truth. You are worthy. Even when you’re resting, or when you’re not “doing,” and especially when you’re simply being.

A Message to Black Caregivers

You are the backbone of so many families. The ones who show up when it’s hard, when it’s thankless, and when no one else does. But you are also human. You’re allowed to be tired. You’re allowed to need care. And you’re absolutely allowed to put yourself first. Because when you do, everyone benefits.

Self-care isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity that looks different for every individual, and it’s time we treated it that way. You deserve to take up space, not just in caregiving, but in your own life. So today, take one intentional step toward yourself. Trust your voice and honor your needs.

Resources

Caregiving in the US 2025: Key Trends, Strains, and Policy Needs

The Senior Alliance

The Toll Of Caregiver Stress When Caring For Aging Parents

Caregiving in the US 2025 – Research Report

Black Women and the Care Agenda | National Partnership for Women & Families

The post Caregivers, Be Good to Yourself appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Ayesha Patrick Opens Up About How Psoriasis Has Impacted Her Body & Mind

This lack of representation can make it even harder to recognize, manage, and accept a chronic autoimmune disease that already impacts both the body and mind. In this candid interview, Ayesha Patrick, founder of The PsoriaSis Collective, opens up about her lifelong experience living with psoriasis. She speaks on the challenges of accessing culturally competent care and the ongoing importance of advocacy, education, and community support for patients of color navigating a world that still has much to learn.

Psoriasis Had Been a Life-Long Journey, But the Pandemic Was a Turning Point

BHM: When did you first begin noticing symptoms, and can you share a little about psoriasis as an autoimmune disease in general?

Ayesha Patrick: I’ve had psoriasis my entire life. I just turned 45, so that’s a long time. As a kid, I had no concept of what it was or what it was called. My twin sister and I both had it, but my mom called it “winter-itch” on our skin because in the winter, our legs would get dry patches, and our scalp would have a lot of what we thought was dandruff. She called it “growing dandruff.”

We didn’t know what it was. It wasn’t until college, when I was going to the doctor on my own, that I learned there was a name for it.

Even then, it was pretty mild and manageable. I didn’t give it much thought, and when I did have patches, I wore clothes to hide them. I had my own hair regimen, and that helped.

Everything changed for me at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, around when I turned 40. I had a major flare-up and realized the full extent of psoriasis.

Suddenly, I had patches all over my body, and multiple types of psoriasis—not just the normal patches I was used to.

I had inverse psoriasis and  Guttate psoriasis, which looked like fine bumps. It was scary because I had never experienced it that way. My scalp was so bad, I lost quite a bit of hair at the crown of my head. Even though I knew I had a condition, I didn’t understand the extent of it until that major flare.

The pandemic, another medical issue, and other life stresses pushed my body into this major flare. That was when I had to rely on virtual visits with my dermatologist and learn more about what I was facing.

The Most Common Type of Psoriasis

BHM: You mentioned two different types. Can you explain the different types you’ve experienced?

Ayesha Patrick: Plaque psoriasis is what most people see, with raised, dry patches on the skin and scalp. Scalp psoriasis can look like dandruff, but it doesn’t go away easily. Psoriasis makes your skin regenerate much faster than normal, which is what creates the scales. That was especially hard because I lost most of my hair, which was very difficult to manage as a Black woman. Having to explain it to people was tough, too.

Can Psoriasis Be Mistaken For Other Conditions?

BHM: In the early stages, did you confuse psoriasis with other pre-existing marks, like birthmarks, or with other skin conditions?

Ayesha Patrick: When I was a kid, before I realized what it was, people thought it was ringworm, because the scales sometimes looked like that. It was hard because, as a kid, you don’t want people to think you have ringworm.

A lot of people would say, “Your skin is just dry, just use Vaseline, use cocoa butter.” You try those things, but they come back or don’t fully heal. It’s common for people to mistake it for something else.

She Knew She Had a Condition, But Was Not Formally Diagnosed Until Later

BHM: Were you ever misdiagnosed, or did you experience delays in your diagnosis because of how your symptoms appeared, especially considering your skin color?

Ayesha Patrick: I always knew I had a condition, so there was never a formal misdiagnosis by a doctor. The only misdiagnoses came from people making assumptions about what they thought I had, but not from medical professionals.

Finding a Community She Could Relate to

BHM: Once you were diagnosed, did your psoriasis look different on your skin compared to images you had seen in brochures or online? How was your research process as you tried to learn more and find others who could relate?

Ayesha Patrick: Because I knew what plaque psoriasis was, I was familiar with it on my skin. But with the inverse type under my breasts, that was completely new. Even the guttate type, the fine bumps, looked different too.

On my skin, the plaques are dark, gray, or sometimes purplish, whereas Google shows red, scaly patches.

Most information isn’t tailored for people of color; unless you search specifically for “psoriasis on Black skin,” you won’t see what it looks like.

Taking photos for my doctor helped me notice that my psoriasis didn’t look red—under my breasts, it looked dark. Online images and others’ descriptions of “red and scaly” didn’t match me. There’s an absolute lack of diversity in how psoriasis is represented in medical literature and online.

Navigating the Challenges of this Chronic Condition

BHM: What has been one of the most challenging aspects of your condition—socially, economically, or regarding barriers to care, like insurance and access to medications?

Ayesha Patrick: One of the biggest challenges was not being heard by my dermatologist. When I was finally able to go into her office, she looked at my scalp and told me to use medication and wash my hair every day.

I explained that as a Black woman with natural hair, I don’t wash my hair daily, and it wasn’t something I could do.

She didn’t seem open to understanding. My daughter was with me, and I realized this relationship wasn’t going to work.

I had to find a new dermatologist, which is always tricky because you have to build trust with someone new and hope they’ll create a treatment plan that works for you. I reached out to Facebook groups to find recommendations, looking for someone who would listen.

Thankfully, my healthcare through my job made access to care easier, but I learned about step therapy and other barriers many people face in receiving the medication that they need. Even though I didn’t experience all those barriers, knowing they exist made me more determined to help others advocate for themselves.

Education and Advocacy are Needed for Patients and Doctors

BHM:  Do you believe more research on people of color with psoriasis is needed? How can healthcare providers improve their care for these patients?

Ayesha Patrick: Absolutely, there should be more research. There are historic issues of trust that make it harder for our community to participate in clinical research. Still, unless we’re included, there’s a limit to what can be done specifically for us.

My new dermatologist—who is not a woman of color but works in a diverse practice—told me they didn’t see images of Black skin in medical school.

There’s an ongoing need to educate and show dermatologists how psoriasis and other skin conditions look on Black and Brown skin.

Our voices matter. Education, both in our community and in medical training, is crucial. Without that knowledge, we won’t get the early care and support we need. For example, I now have psoriatic arthritis, which causes irreversible damage if not caught early. The lack of awareness and education can make conditions progress faster. Collaboration, patient partnership, and education are essential.

Good Medicine Can Mean Many Things

BHM: Can you talk about some treatments that you have found helpful, both initially and now?

Ayesha Patrick: Prescribed topicals have been very helpful. Beyond that, I write and journal a lot because stress and anxiety can trigger flare-ups for me. Taking walks, reading, and making changes to my environment help, too.

It’s not all just medication. If a prescribed medication isn’t working anymore, there are always new options to consider—though it can be overwhelming to read about side effects online.

Changing my diet—reducing carbs and sugar, drinking less alcohol, even trying gluten-free—has also helped a lot.

Since I have psoriatic arthritis, movement is my medicine. Getting vitamin D naturally from sunlight helps too. Medicine can mean many things, not just prescriptions—playing music, caring for your mental health, and finding joy have all helped in my journey.

BHM: Lastly, could you tell us about your Sisters with Psoriasis support group? What inspired you, and what is its mission and impact? Also, do you have any advice for patients of color experiencing unexplained skin changes?

Ayesha Patrick: Sisters with Psoriasis came about when I was searching online for support and couldn’t find anyone who looked like me. I thought, “It’s impossible that no one else is experiencing this.”

One day, I felt called to start my group, so I created an Instagram page and a private Facebook group. I wanted to get support but also offer it to other women like myself. I also connected early on with the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), received mentorship, and worked as an advocate, which gave me the tools to create a safe space for others.

The Foundation made a real impact on my life. As the group grew, I expanded it into the Psoriasis Collective, bringing together patients, advocates, physicians, and others to share resources beyond the Facebook group.

I’m still involved with NPF as a mentor and patient research partner, where I am working on clinical trials and spreading awareness so that we can bring together more information and support for our community. My advice for any patients out there: your voice matters, and your feelings are valid. Trust yourself and know that.

Ayesha Patrick’s story underscores the importance of culturally competent healthcare, community, and self-advocacy for those living with psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases. By sharing her experiences and creating spaces like Sisters with Psoriasis, she continues to inspire others to raise their voices and seek the care they deserve. For more resources, support, or information about psoriasis, visit the National Psoriasis Foundation.

Resources:

National Psoriasis Foundation: Guttate Psoriasis

Cleveland Clinic: Inverse Psoriasis

Mayo Clinic: Plaque Psoriasis

National Psoriasis Foundation

The post Ayesha Patrick, Creating Community with The PsoriaSis Collective appeared first on Black Health Matters.

We spoke to Dr. Lonna Gordon, a physician who’s spent her career helping families have the kinds of conversations she knows can shape trust, confidence, and emotional safety.

Why These Conversations Matter for Emotional Wellness

Dr. Gordon is a quadruple-boarded physician with expertise in adolescent medicine, obesity care, pediatrics, and culinary wellness. Her work centers on the emotional and developmental needs of young people, especially Black girls, and she’s known for helping caregivers build trust through honest dialogue.

“Even if you feel nervous about starting the conversation, have it, because it can make a huge difference in a girl’s emotional well-being,” she says.

She explains that when parents talk openly about sexual health, they help daughters build self-esteem, trust their choices, and feel more confident in their relationships.

“Having ‘the talk’ can help young women build self-esteem by showing them they can trust their own choices and set their own boundaries,” she says. “It also helps reduce the negative feelings they may have about their bodies when a parent reassures them that their bodies are beautiful, and that beauty is just one of many qualities they bring to the table.”

Approach the Conversation With an Open Mind

For caregivers who didn’t grow up with these conversations, Dr. Gordon encourages a shift in thinking. It’s not a single talk; it’s a series that builds over time. She encourages parents to approach the topic with curiosity and a willingness to listen.

“Parents should go into these conversations with an open mind, a curiosity for what their child wants to talk about, and be ready to listen,” she says.

“They may not have all the answers. But it’s important to emphasize that they’re always willing to hear what their child wants to talk about,” Dr. Gordon continues. “Even if the subject may be hard to hear or difficult to talk about.”

Choose a neutral and relaxed setting. Such as a car ride, so the conversation doesn’t feel too intense.

There Are Stages When These Talks Will Resonate

Dr. Gordon points to key developmental stages when these conversations matter. Early childhood curiosity sets the tone for trust. During puberty, it’s essential to talk about body changes and emotional shifts. In high school, the focus expands to sexual identity and decision-making.

“If you keep the lines of communication open through all these stages, you can trust that when your child leaves home, for college or career, she is set up to make informed decisions about her body,” she says.

Help Your Daughter Navigate Mixed Messages

As girls receive conflicting messages from school, peers, and media, Dr. Gordon urges parents to be a reliable source of information or to help daughters build relationships with trusted healthcare providers.

“If parents don’t feel like they can provide this information or have a reliable source, they should advocate for private time and a trusting relationship between daughters and their healthcare providers,” she says.

Challenge Harmful Narratives About Black Girls

In her work with Black families, Dr. Gordon emphasizes the importance of rejecting stereotypes that label curiosity as promiscuity. She also calls attention to the adultification of Black girls, which often denies them the space to make mistakes and learn from them.

“Making mistakes in an environment that is safe enough to learn from is the task of adolescence and so important for growing into an emotionally healthy adult,” she says. “Parents are critical in creating that safe space.”

“Embracing that sexual and reproductive health curiosity does not imply a young person is ‘fast’ or promiscuous,” she adds. “It is important for their children to know about their reproductive and sexual health and to seek out accurate and reliable information.”

What the Opill Survey Reveals About Changing Attitudes

A recent survey commissioned by Perrigo, the maker of Opill, shows how attitudes are shifting. Conducted in July 2025, the Opill Back to School Survey polled nearly 1,200 mothers of college-bound daughters across the U.S. Two in three said they plan to send their daughters to college with birth control. Sixty-six percent said it’s extremely important to have a sexual wellness conversation before their daughters leave home for college.

Still, many mothers expressed concern about side effects, proper use, and the risk of pregnancy. The findings show that caregivers want their daughters to have knowledge and protection they can trust, along with access that feels safe and reliable.

Supporting Autonomy and Access

Dr. Gordon sees this shift as an opportunity to expand the conversation beyond contraception.

“It also opens up space for more comprehensive conversations about sex that include contraception, consent, emotional connection, mutual respect, and pleasure,” she says.

She points to Opill, the first FDA-approved daily birth control available over the counter, as one option that can help remove barriers to access.

“If a college-bound girl can’t easily see a healthcare provider, it’s good to know she still has access to a range of birth control options, including Opill,” she says.

Passing Down Knowledge That Protects

Dr. Gordon describes these conversations as a way to equip daughters with tools that shape their futures. When families talk openly about sexual wellness, they’re not only sharing information, they’re creating conditions for safety, choice, and long-term wellbeing.

“Having these conversations is its own kind of generational wealth, passing down not just knowledge, but opportunities to future generations,” she says.

You Already Know More Than You Think

You may have noticed we didn’t offer a step-by-step script for how to talk to your daughter about sexual health. That’s intentional. There’s no single roadmap that fits every family, and no one knows your child better than you do.

What you bring to the table, your instincts, your care, your lived experience, is already powerful. When paired with Dr. Gordon’s guidance on setting, tone, and intention, those maternal gifts can open space for trust, clarity, and connection.

Whether the conversation starts in a car ride, a quiet moment at home, or a question that catches you off guard, what matters most is that it starts and that your daughter knows she can keep coming back to you.

Resources:

Havas Red and Atomik Research, “Opill Back to School Survey Findings,” commissioned by Perrigo, July 2025.

Opill®: The First FDA-Approved OTC Daily Birth Control Pill | Opill®

The post How Black Mothers Can Lead Sexual Health Conversations with Confidence appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What Happens If You Don’t Vaccinate Your Kids?

Not vaccinating your child can have serious health impacts. For example, infections such as measles can cause severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), and death. Polio can also cause serious complications, including paralysis and post-polio syndrome.

Furthermore, not giving your child the HPV vaccine can lead to them developing cancers later in life, including cervical, anal, and penile cancers. In addition, not only will not vaccinating your child hurt your child, but it will also impact the community.

If people do not vaccinate their kids, herd immunity weakens. Herd immunity is a phenomenon where enough people are immune to a disease, so it cannot spread from one person to another. Vaccines are one way to achieve herd immunity, making it harder for diseases to spread from one person to another.

The increase in measles in 2025 is a clear example of weakened herd immunity. According to an article, “The average county-level vaccination rate fell from 93.92% pre-pandemic to 91.26% post-pandemic.” This illustrates the importance of vaccines in establishing herd immunity.

Why are People Skeptical About Vaccines?

Thimerosal

Thimerosal is a mercury-based preservative used in some vaccines. Thimerosal is essential to add to vaccines because it helps prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in the vaccine vials.

• It contains ethyl mercury, which is quickly removed from the body
• Seafood and other foods contain methylmercury, which can build up to dangerous levels in the body
• These are not the same and affect the body very differently.

According to the CDC and NIH, there is no evidence that thimerosal in vaccines causes harm.

 According to the FDA, the use of thimerosal as a preservative in U.S. FDA-licensed vaccines has significantly declined due to reformulation and development of vaccines presented in single-dose containers.

All vaccines routinely recommended for children 6 years of age and younger in the U.S. are available in formulations that do not contain thimerosal.

The only exception would apply to adolescents. Tetanus and Diphtheria Toxoids Adsorbed, single-dose presentation, manufactured by Mass Biologics, utilizes thimerosal as part of its manufacturing process..

 Autism Myths

According to Dr. Josh Sharfstein, the concerns about vaccines and autism started when an article published in 1998 described 12 children who received the MMR vaccine and later developed autism. This paper was deeply flawed and taken down, but the false connection between vaccines and autism still exists.

One reason this false connection exists is that the MMR vaccine is given around 12 and 18 months old, which is around the same time early autism starts to appear. So people think that since the vaccine comes before the autism diagnosis, the vaccine must be the cause- the cause-and-effect myth. There is numerous strong scientific evidence to disprove this myth. In a large-scale study of 95,000 children, researchers found no association between the MMR vaccine and autism.

 Fear of Severe Reactions

Another reason why people fear vaccines is the severe side effects, including seizures, anaphylaxis, and myocarditis. According to an article in Frontiers in Microbiology, vaccines undergo rigorous safety and efficacy studies to ensure their safety. In fact, many serious side effects are extremely rare.

When Guidelines Shift, So Does Trust

• The Hepatitis B birth shot, which pediatricians say is crucial to have. An AAP article says that “infants infected with hepatitis B at birth face a 90% likelihood of developing chronic infection.”
•  The MMR vaccine, Pediatricians warn that with the U.S. facing a growing measles outbreak, maintaining high MMR vaccination coverage is critical, and any attempt to question it could endanger lives.

Click this link for the complete schedule: BHM VACCINE SHEET copy 2

Adapted from CDC.gov

Resources:

Measles: Signs and Symptoms

Polio: Symptoms and Causes

HPV: Reasons to Get the Vaccine

Herd Immunity

Vaccine Safety

NIH

The Evidence on Vaccines and Autism

Cause and Effect Myth

The post Why You Should Vaccinate Your Kids appeared first on Black Health Matters.

It’s Not Just Adults, 1 in 3 Teens is Prediabetic

According to the CDC, 32.7%, an estimated 8.4 million teens ages 12-17 are prediabetic. This data was collected from the 2023 National Health and Nutrition Survey, the most recent time information was gathered.

In a statement to ABC News, Dr. Christopher Holliday, the CDC’s top official in charge of diabetes prevention, said Type 2 diabetes poses a “significant threat” to young people’s health.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when the level of sugar in the blood is too high. That happens because of a problem with the hormone insulin, which is made in the pancreas. When you eat, the pancreas releases insulin into the bloodstream. This allows sugar to enter your cells, lowering the amount of sugar in your blood.

In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas does not make enough insulin, and the body can’t use insulin as well as it should. That means sugar cannot move into the cells, and it builds up in the blood.

What is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar is higher than normal, but it’s not high enough to be considered type 2 diabetes. People who have prediabetes are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

A person’s blood sugar can be at a prediabetes level for quite some time. Although it doesn’t carry all the risks of the full disease, prediabetes isn’t harmless. The damage diabetes can do to your body may start in the prediabetes stage, particularly complications that affect the blood vessels, heart, and kidneys.

What Changes You Need to Make to Reverse Prediabetes

The good news is that there are ways to reverse this condition. Specific lifestyle changes can lower your blood sugar level and decrease your risk of developing diabetes.

 Maintain a healthy weight.

The root cause of type 2 diabetes is not completely clear, but weight does play a role. In people who have obesity, the body may need two to three times more insulin than it would at a healthy weight. When the pancreas tries to produce that much additional insulin, it can be pushed beyond its capacity, and insulin-producing cells start to die. That worsens the situation because the pancreas then has even fewer cells with which to make insulin.

Eat a Diet Rich in Vegetables, Fruits, and Whole Grains

Changes in eating habits are often necessary. Eat a healthy diet that’s rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. For guidance, consider talking with a dietitian. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for exercise.

Get 30 Minutes of Exercise a Day, 150 minutes Per Week. 

Get 150 minutes or more of moderate aerobic physical activity a week or at least 30 minutes most days. If you count steps as a way to monitor activity, you will likely need to take 10,000 to 15,000 steps per day to maintain a lower weight. Another benefit of physical activity is that muscles can take up and burn sugar without the need for insulin, thereby taking pressure off the pancreas.

Control Your Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, and Don’t Smoke

Controlling high blood pressure and high cholesterol can also reduce your risk of future diseases. And because smoking can worsen insulin resistance in the body, don’t smoke. For help quitting, talk to your health care provider.

Preventing prediabetes from progressing to type 2 diabetes is vital for your long-term health. Over time, Type 2 diabetes can affect nearly every major organ in your body, including the blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and kidneys. If left untreated, diabetes complications may be disabling or even life-threatening. But if you lower your blood sugar level, your risk of type 2 diabetes and its potential complications decreases dramatically.

Resources

CDC: Prediabetes: Could It Be You?

CDC National Health and Nutrition Survey

The post Can You Reverse Prediabetes? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Spencer’s First Role Was in the Movie Serpico

According to Deadline, Danielle Spencer was born on June 24, 1965. Her mother, Cheryl, raised her along with her stepfather, Tim Pelt. Spencer began acting at seven, appearing in  Serpico and Harry and Tonto. She landed the role of Dee, Raj’s little sister, at age 11 in What’s Happening, a sitcom loosely based on the film Cooley High.

The Young Actress Was a Breakout Star

But in the show, Spencer played Dee, who was the sassy younger sister of Roger “Raj” Thomas (played by Ernest Thomas) and the daughter of Mabel (played by Mable King). She was most known for her signature phrase, “Ooooh, I’m gonna tell Mama!”

What’s Happening!! Aired for the first time in 1976, as a four-week summer series before returning in November and then for another two seasons.

“I had never seen any young black girl in that type of spotlight, so I didn’t have a reference point in the media as to how to deal with this opportunity,” she told Jet magazine in 2014. “I was from the Bronx. What I did was use my own family as the reference on how to portray my character.”

A Tragic Car Accident Left Her in a Coma

Sadly, during the second season of production, Spencer and her stepfather were involved in a five-car accident. They were returning from seeing the movie, Star Wars.

Unfortunately, Tim Pelt was killed. And the actress fell into a coma for three weeks. InSpencer had an additional six months of physical therapy to recover.

Becoming Doctor Spencer

After What’s Happening!! and their spinoff, What’s Happening Now, were cancelled, Spencer decided on her next act. She attended UC Davis and earned a degree in veterinary science. She went on to Tuskegee University Veterinary School in Tuskegee, Alabama to become a veterinarian in 1993.

Dr. Spencer worked as a veterinarian in California for two decades before relocating to Virginia. When she got to her new city, she was back in front of the cameras. Dr.Spencer ran a pet-care segment for CBS affiliate WTVR-TV.

Dr.Spencer’s Health Challenges

In the early aughts, she developed a spinal condition that left her paralyzed for several months. But in 2014, Dr. Spencer was diagnosed with breast cancer. As a result of her diagnosis, she underwent a double mastectomy.

In 2018, she had emergency surgery to remove a bleeding hematoma—a result of the car accident that killed her stepfather. Unfortunately, she no longer had health insurance. Her loved ones launched a GoFundMe to cover Dr. Spencer’s medical expenses.

Dr. Spencer is survived by her mother and brother, Jeremy, a jazz musician.

 

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The post Dr. Danielle Spencer, aka Dee From “What’s Happening” Has Died appeared first on Black Health Matters.

“There are also times when I’m not feeling so great. And I will consult with a doctor. I think it’s good, from a physical standpoint, but mental health is vital. Westbrook explained.

I think that when we are in this day-to-day grind, we forget to check on our mental health.”

Westbrook is returning to co-host the BHM Harlem Week 2025 Health Summit & Expo and wants to see more of his peers at Riverside Church on August 14, 2025.

Why Health Matters Are Personal for Westbrook

The Emmy award-winning reporter grew up in Harlem. Westbrook says his parents were always adamant about getting him regular screenings and heart-related matters.

“Especially, my dad, Artie, in particular. Unfortunately, he passed away a couple of years ago and due to complications with his heart,” Westbrook recalled.

“So I know just growing up with them, they were always big into just making sure that you’re on top of your health and going to the doctor as often as possible.”

Westbrook also noticed that many of his peers have become parents themselves. That has also made them pay more attention to their well-being. “They’re seeing that it’s beneficial to stay on top of their health as well as their child’s health,” he explained.

Diseases Like Colon and Prostate Cancer Are Impacting Younger People

According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 5 people diagnosed with colon cancer, for example, will be under the age of 55. Some of the contributing factors include:

• having obesity and a sedentary lifestyle
• long-term smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
• a  high-fat, low-fiber diet

Westbrook Says Social Media Can Be a Powerful Teaching Tool

“Social media is such a powerful tool. I think that the more you know, the more you grow.”  If word is being spread out there about the importance of getting screened or tested for certain things,” he said.

“It’ll resonate with people. And I think especially with my age group. I’m in that millennial age group. And so I think we’re starting even to see a shift in how we’re conceptualizing our health and why it’s so important.”

Westbrook gave an example. “Wait until your 40s to get a prostate exam. But now, the advice is “if you feel that certain things aren’t right, get screened. Go see a doctor,” he said

Why Westbrook Keeps Coming Back to the Harlem Summit

“This would be my fourth time participating in the Black Health Matters Summit, and it’s a fun event,” he said. “Just the energy with everyone there, from the different sessions, panel discussions, and the energy in general, is so electrifying,” the reporter said.

“But I think people walk out of there feeling motivated to be on top of their health, and I would love for that to be continued this time around. It’s just amazing to hear from folks after a panel discussion say,

‘You know, I’ve really learned a lot from these professionals who are up there on stage about this particular subject matter.’

People are invested in these things, and so I’m hoping that that’s the same notion that resonates again,” he continued.

Westbrook Wants to See His Peers There

One of the reasons that Westbrook keeps coming back is that he has seen the sessions be beneficial to participants’ lives year after year. Those benefits have no age limit. So he’s doing his best to convince his peers to show up, starting with some of his friends.

“I’m trying to encourage some of my friends to spread the word about it. Because it’s not an “older person’s problem”. Again, we’re seeing people my age and younger, developing ailments that, years ago, we never would have thought would ever occur,” Westbrook notes.

So that’s what I’m hoping for this time, right? To be inspired, to be motivated, and, of course, to have fun.”

Join Elijah Westbrook at the BHM Harlem Week Health Summit & Expo in-person or virtually by registering through this link.

The post Elijah Westbrook Wants Millennials to Take Their Health Seriously appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Discovering His Diagnosis While Serving Others

“My grandfather died from prostate cancer 20-something years ago, and so I was always conscious of my health,” he explained.

Eubanks was serving in his capacity as one of the organizers of the health fair at his church, demonstrating how easy it was to have one’s PSA numbers checked. Within minutes, he learned his numbers were in the danger zone.

Understanding PSA Numbers

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood. “Normal” PSA ranges vary by age.

“In general, a PSA level above 4.0 ng/mL is considered abnormal and may result in a recommendation for prostate biopsy,” according to the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health.

While working at his church’s health summit, Eubanks learned his PSA level was twice the normal level. It was in the 8s. He had previously been in the 6s, but he was never told.

“It was really shocking to find out that in 2022, it was diagnosed, but nobody said anything to me,” he continued.

How Eubanks’ Diagnosis Got Lost in the System

The longtime HCP of the frequent face on The Real Housewives of Atlanta passed away. Eubanks had no clue his records were in limbo. His new doctor never admitted they didn’t have it. Instead, they pretended they did and asked questions to try to fill in the blanks.

“My doctor didn’t come out of the gate and tell me that he didn’t have my records,” he said. “Nor did my insurance offer to provide me with any information, claiming they didn’t have anything either.”

However, Eubanks was fortunate enough to find a doctor committed to presenting him with a full picture of his health. “He was able to track [my health history] back through my labs,” he said.

Black Men and Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is extremely common. A 2025 review in the Journal of the American Medical Association states that “Prostate cancer is the most common nonskin cancer in men in the US.”

The risk is even greater in the Black community. “Black men are disproportionately affected by prostate cancer, with earlier presentation, more aggressive disease, and higher mortality rates versus White men,” according to the American Cancer Society.

They are 70% more likely to develop prostate cancer. Their outcomes are worse as well. Black men are twice as likely to die from prostate cancer. The disparity is even more significant in Eubanks’ home state of Georgia. It is fifth nationwide.

Misconceptions about PSA Testing

Eubanks cited misinformation about how PSA levels are checked as one of the contributing factors for why people do not get tested.

“Guys have to get out of their heads about having their prostate checked through the anus,” he said. PSA tests can be conducted through a rapid blood draw process. It is a quick and minimally invasive way to educate yourself about your health.

An Overlooked Symptom

He pointed out a significant symptom of prostate cancer that goes unnoticed. Previously, he attributed his frequent urination to the amount of water he was drinking. He was wrong. “That was a sign. You know? My bladder was overactive,” he declared.

Finding Purpose Under Pressure

Eubanks partnered with ZERO Prostate Cancer to help him spread awareness and increase access to those who need it the most. The organization has offered “resources, programs, and services” to those fighting or at risk for prostate cancer and their loved ones for nearly 30 years.

They are aiming to ensure 10,000 men a month get appointments for PSA tests.

Advocacy is nothing new to Eubanks. He has aided in producing health summits, community feedings, and other philanthropic events for decades through his church Victory for the World.

He has comforted others on a smaller scale as well. A frequent traveler to Saint Lucia, he has brought back items to soothe those in his life who are dealing with the symptoms of illness.

“I’ve been bringing back soursop leaves and bark and giving it to people that had health challenges, and lo and behold, I’m needing it now, so it’s just really interesting how God has been preparing me for this day, and I had no idea,” he said.

Soursop has been known to “possess therapeutic effects due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gastroprotective properties,” according to the  Journal of Molecules.

How Eubanks Practices Self-Care

He is currently meditating and working with his urologist and primary care provider on a treatment plan that is right for him.

He strongly encouraged those without resources to attend public events and gain the knowledge they need. “When you have a health fair or summit or anything free in your community, go go go! Because the information is there, you have the medical professionals there.”

It can be hard to prioritize your health as your to-do list expands. But Eubanks stressed the importance of putting your well-being first.

“I encourage people to take the time. It’s your health,” he said. “No matter how much wealth, how many bedrooms you have in your house, what car you drive, without your health, none of that is relevant.”

And while the world might know him for external elegance, Dwight Eubanks is focused on what lies within.

“It doesn’t matter what label is on your shoes or outfits. None of that matters when you don’t have good health and strength,” he added. “That’s the number one thing.”

References

NCI: PSA Fact Sheet

Journal of the American Cancer Society: The Review

Racial Disparities of Black Men with Prostate Cancer: American Cancer Society

Journal of Molecules.

The post Dwight Eubanks’ Initial Prostate Cancer Diagnosis Was Lost appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Dr. Langston D. Smith, DMD, MS, MHED (above), the Deputy Surgeon General for Dental Health, offered opening and closing remarks for the evening.

Early Prostate Cancer Detection Can Save Your Life

ZERO Prostate Cancer Chief Mission Officer, Brian Bragg, provided an Overview of prostate cancer and its impact on Black men.

• Black men are 1.7x more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
• Because they are often diagnosed later, Black men are 2.1x more likely to die from prostate cancer than white men.

When Should You Get Screened?

Bragg told attendees that their screening needs will primarily depend on their family and/health history. He encouraged the brothers to take charge of their health by visiting this link to assess their risks. Then discuss their concerns with their primary care doctor about when an initial PSA screening would be appropriate. For those who have a family history, screening may begin at age 40.

Partner With Your HCP For More Positive Outcomes

Michael Daniels, MD, a board-certified urologic surgeon who leads Germantown Urology in Germantown, PA, provided an encouraging keynote talk. He told the Alpha brothers they needed to use their voices at their doctor appointments. They had to work in partnership with their HCPs when it came to making treatment decisions and exploring experimental treatments (e.g., intensification/combination therapy). These options may not always be offered, but speaking up and pursuing treatments that give Black men the best outcomes can help.

Why Prostate Cancer Screenings Are Critical

Dr. Daniels also provided a quick overview of the prostate, stating that symptoms of prostate cancer are rarely experienced before cancer is advanced, thus supporting prevention and annual screenings.

Preventing Prostate Cancer With Healthier Lifestyle Choices

Dr. Daniels is an advocate of plant-based or plant-heavy eating, while avoiding processed foods, sugar, and alcohol. He reminded the audience that smoking is a cause or contributing cause for most cancers.

In addition to mentioning treatment options and recent advancements (this is not your father’s prostate cancer), Dr. Daniels emphasized the importance of listening to your doctor.

Resources for Education and Empowerment

Astellas Oncology contributed printed materials to help attendees better understand their health:

• “Understanding Rising PSA After Surgery and/or Radiation”
• “Know Your Prostate Plan”
• These brochures, filled with accessible, actionable information, helped reinforce the event’s core messages.

Post-Dinner Discussions

Post-dinner Table discussions were designed to explore the role Alpha Phi Alpha chapters can have in creating more awareness about prostate cancer and the risk to black men. Some discussed offered ideas, including chapters hosting or partnering for monthly health discussions at the chapter level, with a mention of “medical triage” to discuss health-related issues.

They also discussed ways to increase access to free PSA screenings. There was also a suggestion that chapters obtain information about health fairs and screening opportunities in the community and share that information with their brothers.

Doing your research and having an action plan were encouraged by some brothers. Personal stories were shared, including some regarding switching doctors when a doctor doesn’t express adequate concern over elevating PSA numbers.

When You Have a Family History of Prostate Cancer, You May Do Things Differently.

The idea of watch and wait isn’t appropriate for young men or those with a family history of prostate cancer, according to the opinion of some brothers whose families have been impacted and successfully treated with prostate cancer. One specifically mentioned his 92-year-old father, and both he and his father are doing well and are cancer-free post-treatments.

Conclusion

Health Equity Starts with Conversations. This dinner and discussion went beyond raising awareness—it lit a fire. By bringing together expert voices, resources, and the lived experiences of Black men, the event underscored that prostate cancer doesn’t have to be a silent killer. When Black men are equipped with knowledge, empowered to speak up, and supported by their communities, outcomes improve—and lives are saved.

The post Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Health Chairmen & Community Advocates Get Empowered appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Sanders, who is also known as Coach Prime, has faced other health issues. He had blood clots that led to the amputation of two of his toes in 2021. He learned of his bladder cancer during follow-up testing for those issues, proving the importance of routine screenings.

A CT scan of his vascular system alerted his caregivers to signs.

“Men, everybody. Get checked out. Because if it weren’t for me getting tested for something else, they wouldn’t have stumbled upon this,” he advised.

How Bladder Cancer Can Change Your Life?

The former professional football player turned inspirational football coach was transparent about his challenges following the surgery.

“I’m still dealing with going to the bathroom. It’s a whole life change,” he told the media. “I’m gonna be transparent. I can’t pee like I used to pee. It’s totally different.”

He explained that he might require special accommodations in the workplace due to the effects of the surgery. “I cannot control my bladder, so I get up to go to the bathroom already four or five times a night,” said Sanders. “I’m making a joke out of it, but it’s real. So if you see a port-a-potty on the sideline, it’s real. I’m just telling you right now, you’re gonna see it.”

Sanders chose to share his diagnosis and details about his treatment following his surgery despite speculation surrounding his absence from team practices. He shared when he was ready to.

Privacy is often important to those facing cancer.

He addressed the stigma associated with bladder cancer and instructed those watching the press conference to be proactive in their approach to their health. “Let’s stop being ashamed of it, and let’s deal with it, and let’s deal with it head-on,” he said.

Sanders shared a video of himself heading to the surgery with his friend Karruche Tran at his side. Social support is deeply important to those dealing with cancer.

How Common Is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer is one of several cancers of the urinary system. It is fairly common. The World Health Organization says it is the ninth most common cancer in the world.

Men are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with bladder cancer than women. Of the women who get diagnosed, Black and Hispanic women are at a higher risk of being diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Bladder cancer heavily affects those in the senior population. “A total of 90% of bladder cancer diagnoses are made in those 55 years of age and older,” according to the Journal of Medical Sciences.

Sanders is 57.

What Are The Risks of Bladder Cancer?

Smoking is a significant risk factor for bladder cancer—parasite infections and extended exposure to chemicals like arsenic and chlorine present risk factors as well.

There are genetic factors associated with bladder cancer, too. It is hereditary.

What Are The Mortality Rates For Bladder Cancer?

“Bladder cancer is the? 10th leading cause of cancer death in the United States,” according to the American Cancer Society.

According to a 2023 article from BMC Urology, “Compared with white patients, African Americans tend to present with more advanced disease at diagnosis, are less likely to receive definitive treatment, and have poorer survival outcomes.” As with several other forms of cancer, early screening helps with outcomes.

The Canadian Urological Association Journal reports that “Screening for bladder cancer results in close to 80% downstaging.”

What Are The Signs Of Bladder Cancer?

Blood in the urine is one of the most apparent signs of bladder cancer. It can be faint. It can also briefly disappear and reappear.

Frequent urination and painful urination are signs as well. Back pain is associated with bladder cancer, too. If you experience any one of these symptoms, you should seek a screening.

What Kind of Treatments Are Available for Bladder Cancer?

The standard of care for bladder cancer treatment is changing. Some drugs are showing promise in clinical trials.

The type of bladder cancer determines which kind of treatment is best for each patient.

Sanders opted for bladder removal after considering the nature of his tumor. He felt that was the best path to stay there for his family and his players. The less invasive options did not depict the future he wanted.

“You guys gave me options that scared me to death,” Sanders told Dr. Kukrej.

Dr. Janet Kukrej was at Sanders’ side as he spoke. She described the tumor as “very aggressive” and “very high grade.”

“It was very high grade invading through the bladder wall, not into the muscle layer, something we call very high risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer,” she explained. “We performed a full robot-assisted laparoscopic bladder removal and creation of a new bladder.”

Resources:

Digit Health

World Health Organization: Bladder Cancer

National Cancer Institute

Journal of Medical Sciences.

American Cancer Society.

BMC Urology

Canadian Urological Association Journal

Mayo Clinic: Clinical Trials

The post Deion Sanders Wants You To Get Tested For Bladder Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Several videos include “body checking,” which is when a person repeatedly and excessively examines their body and measures their weight.

@dailyedthoughts I feel so discussting, but I’ll be better tomorrow #modivation #wl #fyp #binge #wieiad ♬ Child Psychology – Black Box Recorder

@bones_and_nothing_else Healthy meals #dietcoke #love #fyp #lifestyle #hungry #zerosugar #ednotedsheerannn #healthy #yummy ♬ original sound – 𝘮𝘪𝘢 ༅࿐

@propessor_igat ITS HARD THO#PropFit #gymrat #MYWORKOUTOUTFIT ♬ Coco Jamboo – Mr. President

Content That Highlights Dangerous Habits

Other videos include unhealthy eating habits, such as consuming a very low number of calories, which can be observed in the “What I eat in a day” videos. They may also include excessive exercising, the use of non-prescribed weight loss pills, weight loss transformations, and low-calorie recipes.

Several terms have been adopted to promote excessive skinniness, including “nothing tastes better than being skinny,” “is it an outfit or are you just skinny,” and “be the smallest in the room.”

 These Videos Can Promote Unhealthy Practices

These videos are often masked as inspirational, featuring inspirational music in the background or captions. These inspirational captions can make it seem like these behaviors are healthy and positive when they are very dangerous. One can internalize these habits and continue engaging in disordered eating or obsessive patterns.

There is a concern that these videos can cause depression or anxiety, or even cause or exacerbate eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia. Eating disorders are unfortunately not something that can be easily controlled and can have a long-lasting negative impact on one’s life.

These eating disorders have become much more prevalent in recent years, as one study shows a 15.3% increase in eating disorders during the pandemic.

We Are Impacted by Eating Disorders Too

While eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa have been stereotyped as issues only affecting white people, this idea is highly flawed. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), eating disorders “affect people from all demographics of all ethnicities at similar rates. People of color — especially African Americans — are significantly less likely to receive help for their eating issues.”

According to a study published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders, “Black teenagers are 50% more likely than white teenagers to display bulimic behavior such as bingeing or purging. Though this is true, treatment rates for black teenagers were substantially lower than for white teenagers.

According to a study performed, of 76 women who have had an eating disorder, 28.1% of the white women received treatment while 5.3% of the black women received treatment for the eating disorder. These disparities highlight just how vital it is to both address inequalities in healthcare and to stop harmful social media trends such as #Skinnytok. #Skinnytok can lead to disordered eating behaviors, especially amongst underrepresented groups who may not see themselves in the mainstream narratives of recovering from eating disorders.

What is TikTok Doing to Help?

As of June 2, 2025, TikTok has removed the hashtag #SkinnyTok to protect children online. If the hashtag is searched, TikTok will provide a link to resources that can be visited for help, such as the phone number for the National Alliance for Eating Disorders: 866-622-1635.

Here’s What To Do When You See a Video.

Though TikTok has removed the hashtag #skinnytok, there are still ways that people can post these videos and avoid having them taken down. For example, people have used the captions to bypass the hashtag removal, including misspelling skinnytok as “skinnyt0k” or “sk1nnytok” or referencing eating disorders in some way.

• If you come across this video, there is a feature on TikTok where you can click “not interested.” When you do, TikTok can remove videos like these from your FYP, for your page feed.
• You can also report the video or block the creator of the video.

Resources

Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and Eating Disorders, National Eating Association.org

International Journal of Eating Disorder, : Binge Eating and Binge-Eating Disorder in Black Women: A Systematic Review.”

The post The Scary Truth about #Skinnytok appeared first on Black Health Matters.

We Grew Our Own Food

Before she began her modeling career, Cynthia recalled a childhood in Alabama where they rarely ate out, if at all. My mom, my grandmother, everybody cooked,” she explained.

“I came from a family where we grew a lot of our own food. We didn’t eat a lot of fast food. We didn’t know we were eating healthy; we ate what was prepared for us.”

My Grandmother Was The Doctor

The first time the RHOA reality star was ever a patient in a hospital was when she gave birth to her daughter, Noelle Robinson. “Growing up in the South, they [our elders] introduced us to preventative medicine,” she noted.

“I remember that they would make us all kinds of home remedies that you would have to eat or drink. And Vicks was the all-purpose remedy for almost everything. But I didn’t get sick,” she continued.

My grandmother was the doctor. Maybe if you broke a bone, you’d have to go to the hospital to see someone else.”

Cynthia has started to look at some of the things her grandmother and mother used, like garlic, and incorporated them back into her lifestyle today.

We are excited to welcome her back as a cohost at the BHM Harlem Week 2025 Health Summit & Expo. August 14, 2025, at Riverside Church in New York City.

I Got Intentional About My Weight Management

Cynthia had always been thin, but menopause has a way of changing our bodies. “At 58, your metabolism is slow. You breathe air, you gain weight,” she joked. However, it can be frustrating when things that previously worked for weight loss no longer provide the desired positive outcome.

She tried intermittent fasting and a few other methods before deciding to sign up for Weight Watchers. “I tried all these other things, but I decided on Weight Watchers because I needed a game plan,” she said.

Her schedule keeps her on the road between Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York City, with considerable time spent in hotels where there aren’t stoves.

“I also needed to have a different conversation with food. Which foods work for me, which don’t? With Weight Watchers, I don’t feel like I’m on a diet, I’m on a food management plan. I can eat pretty much what I want.”

For her, that could mean having a burger with the bottom half of the bun, or a lettuce wrap. She looks at food differently.

Cynthia went in with a very ambitious goal: to lose 50 pounds in three months. Instead, she lost 25 pounds, a significant accomplishment. She is now working on the next 25.

“I don’t have the type of job where anyone can afford to stop production because I don’t feel well,” she explained.

Podcast as Talk Therapy

One of the reasons Cynthia lives on Delta Airlines is that she flies to the Los Angeles area often to film episodes of her podcast Humble Brag, wth Crystal and Cynthia. Yes, a former RHOBH with a RHOA sounds strange. But this unlikely pairing works. Their podcast launched last October, so they are close to their first anniversary.

“One of the things I am trying to do these days is operate from a place of peace 99% of the time because stress is real,” Cynthia pointed out.

“My podcast Humble Brag with Crystal Kung Minkoff has become like my two-hour therapy session. Just sitting and talking. It’s the therapy I didn’t know I needed.”

Getting to Glowissima

As she prioritizes her health, Cynthia is also putting her skin in the forefront. For years, women have been asking her what she has used on it to keep it so radiant.

Recently, with her cofounder, Dana Hill-Robinson, they launched Glowissima Skincare. “Dana and I have known each other for over 35 years and always talked about doing something together, but the timing wasn’t right, she said.

“But two years ago, everything fell into place and we started working on the line.” The clean skincare line has two hero products: Miracle Elixir Facial Oil and Ultimate Radiance Facial Cream. The products are infused with botanical ingredients from New Zealand, including manuka honey and kiwi seed oil. As well as other yummy ingredients like kakuda plum, seabuckthorn oil, and marula oil, which heal, protect, hydrate skin, and reduce hyperpigmentation.

Cynthia says, “Think of the products like boyfriend and girlfriend—the oil seals in the moisturizer. But the oil can also be used as a spot treatment. They are good together or used separately.”

In the few short months the products have been out, it has already won the Gurus of Beauty Award for Breakthrough Skincare Brand and  Best Facial Oil from Pop Sugar.

 

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Don’t forget to join Cynthia as she cohosts the BHM Harlem Week 2025 Health Summit & Expo. You can come in-person or tune in virtually. Click here for registration.

The post Why Cynthia Bailey Has Made Her Health & Peace a Priority appeared first on Black Health Matters.

When Hypertension Goes Untreated

She explains how stress, discrimination, limited access to preventive care, and diets high in sodium contribute to early-onset hypertension. Left untreated, it increases the risk of stroke and contributes to brain damage. “Regular checks of blood pressure are critical, and anyone with high blood pressure should get treatment to help protect their brain.”

Defining Lack of Access to Care

When people talk about limited access to care, it can sound vague, but Dr. Brangman breaks it down in concrete terms. “Limited access to care can occur in a variety of ways, whether that’s a lack of health insurance, long wait times for an appointment, issues with transportation, or the inability to take time off from work to go to the doctor.” For someone navigating mental health concerns, these barriers aren’t minor. They can be the reason help isn’t reached in time.

The Struggle For Us is Real

The disparities Dr. Brangman describes reflect broader national trends. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), only 37.9% of Black adults with any mental illness received mental health treatment in 2022, compared to 56.1% of white adults.

In cognitive health, delays in diagnosis remain common. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that Black Americans are nearly twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s or other dementias. However, a study from the National Institute on Aging noted that Black participants were 35% less likely to be diagnosed compared to their white counterparts, often entering care later when fewer options remain.

For many Black families, navigating dementia care means facing a system shaped by inequity. Whether it’s delayed diagnoses, limited access to specialists, or feeling dismissed in clinical settings, the barriers can be challenging to overcome.

What Change Looks Like on the Ground

Changing habits takes time and support, but Dr. Brangman has seen progress happen. “It can sometimes be a challenge to adjust long-term habits we may have, such as eating fast food or getting very little sleep,” she notes. “However, with the right information and support, many adults can make the changes that are needed to improve their brain health.”

She recommends starting with just one or two goals, such as switching from sweetened beverages to water or seltzer, and establishing a bedtime routine that helps people wind down gradually without the use of screens. These efforts are manageable and have made a difference in the patients and communities she’s worked with.

Meeting People Where They Are

Dr. Brangman pushes back on the notion that communities aren’t interested in brain health. She has found that engagement is high when the message fits the audience. Community is a vital force in shaping mental and brain health. “In general, people in the Black community are very interested in learning about health issues,” she says. “It is important to develop a trusting relationship and adjust the discussion to meet the needs of the person.”

Whether through one-on-one conversations or community workshops, she sees the most impact when the information reflects real challenges and respects lived experiences.

Building Representation into Brain Health Research

Progress in research hasn’t kept pace with the needs of diverse populations. Dr. Brangman sees this clearly in geriatric and brain health studies. “There is still much work to do to improve the participation of women, older adults, and non-white individuals in brain health and aging research,” she says.

Her team at Upstate Medical University created a Community Research Liaison role to address that gap—someone who steps into neighborhoods, builds trust, and invites people into research opportunities designed with them in mind. Because at the end of the day, good healthcare is shaped by compassion, not bias.

Brain Health Habits That Fit Different Lives

For those in under-resourced areas, practical steps matter most. Dr. Brangman encourages regular walking, starting with 15 minutes and gradually increasing to 30 minutes. “If you live in a neighborhood without sidewalks or a safe place to walk, you can try walking at a mall or maybe on the track at a local high school,” she says.

She also suggests pairing physical activity with social interaction, like walking with a friend. Other recommendations include quitting smoking with support, reducing alcohol consumption, and finding ways to learn something new, such as a hobby, music, or reading.

Making Prevention a Priority

The interest in brain health is growing, and Dr. Brangman finds it encouraging. “One of the most surprising things I’ve learned recently is how eager people are to learn about ways to improve their health,” she says.

She stresses that people shouldn’t wait until signs of decline appear. Discussing healthcare options with providers early can lay the groundwork for better outcomes in the future. For those ready to begin, she recommends the Brain Works campaign, a free resource hub created by the McKnight Brain Research Foundation, which offers clear steps and trusted information about cognitive aging.

Closing the Loop

Your mental health, physical wellness, and cognitive function aren’t separate tracks; they are interconnected. Protecting brain health means paying attention to all aspects of health, not just during times of crisis, but in day-to-day life. Let this be a quiet reminder to pause, reflect, and take care with intention.

Resources

Mental Health by the Numbers | National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Still Ringing the Alarm: AN ENDURING CALL TO ACTION FOR BLACK YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION

– MBRF

Highlights by Race/Ethnicity for the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health

Race, Ethnicity, and Alzheimer’s

Data shows racial disparities in Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis between Black and white research study participants | National Institute on Aging

BrainWorks – MBRF

The post What Aging Reveals About Mental Health appeared first on Black Health Matters.

It found that there were significant risk factors associated with both the smoking of marijuana and the ingestion of marijuana.

Cannabis Use Is On The Rise

“Over the past several decades, more than half of all U.S. states have legalized cannabis for adult and/or medical use, but it remains illegal at the federal level,” according to the National Academy of Sciences. The legalization of marijuana has increased its on-the-record usage. What used to be contained in secret parking lot handoffs is now a more straightforward transaction. People can stop off at the corner and pick up some sativa pre-rolls or a package of indica gummies on their way home from work. This has led to increased cannabis consumption. A 2022 study found that daily marijuana usage was even outpacing routine alcohol consumption.

Heart health is a significant concern for the Black community. Black people have disproportionate rates of adverse heart health outcomes, making even slight additional risk factors extremely dangerous.

Cannabis Today Is Different Than Before

If you choose to indulge and feel a tsunami of high where you used to feel a drizzle of calm, there’s a reason for that. Cannabis is far stronger than it was. Users’ tastes have evolved, and growers are meeting their desires. Plants have been modified for maximum effect as a result. The New York Times reports that “with more people consuming more potent cannabis more often, a growing number, mostly chronic users, are enduring serious health consequences.”

There are other risks associated with cannabis in addition to vascular threats. “The heavy and prolonged use of cannabis has been linked to several adverse health effects such as memory impairment, issues with executive functioning, and increased risk for developing a mental illness,” according to a 2022 article in Current Addiction Reports.

Neuroscientist Yasmin Hurd told the Times, “There’s a difference in legalizing the original cannabis on the planet and the products that exist today.” The Academy advocated for a public health campaign to advise vulnerable publics about the dangers associated with marijuana.

Cannabis Usage Should Be Discussed With Your Doctor

Cannabis has long been thought of as a casual way to relax. It treats chronic pain, insomnia, and social anxiety disorder.

But it might be smart to check with your doctor before adding it to your dopamine menu.

It is still considered a drug. It should be consumed mindfully. “It’s not as risk-free as we think, and it should be part of your discussion with a healthcare provider,” advised Dr. Hakeem Ayinde, MD, MS, FHRS, Internal Medicine Section Chair of the National Medical Association. Ayinde is board-certified in cardiovascular disease.

“If you think about this as a drug, it has its risks, as we have seen, and it may have some benefits as we’re aware,” he told Black Health Matters. “You may get immediate stress relief, but then you’re exchanging one problem for a way bigger problem,” he added.

Ayinde witnessed an instance of myocardial infarction that puzzled him during his residency. Cannabis use was involved. “He didn’t have any of the typical risk factors,” said Ayinde.

“The only thing I saw that stood out was that he smoked cannabis.”

He suspected it was a factor. But the available research was limited at the time. “I couldn’t find very strong evidence at that time,” he explained. The research gaps have since been filled, and Ayinde’s suspicions have been confirmed.

Cannabis Consumption Could Be An Invisible Risk Factor

A 2023 study from the Journal of the American College of Cardiology connected frequent cannabis use with an increased risk for coronary artery disease.

The Journal of the American Heart Association previously explored the association of cannabis use with cardiovascular outcomes among adults in the United States. It found that cannabis use raised the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke. Its findings were consistent with other studies that reported that a higher rate of usage resulted in increased risks, and “There were significant differences in the distribution of cardiovascular events between respondents reporting daily, nondaily, and nonuse of cannabis, with the lowest point estimates among the nondaily users.”

The study argued that patients should be screened for cannabis use.

Resources

Journal of the American Medical Association Cardiology: Association of Endothelial Dysfunction With Chronic Marijuana Smoking and THC-Edible Use

National Academies of Sciences: To Protect Public Health, Federal Government Should Provide Guidance to States that Have Legalized Marijuana, Close Hemp Regulatory Loopholes, Create Public Health Campaign

pbsorg: Daily marijuana use is now more common than daily alcohol use in the U.S., new study finds

The New York Times: As America’s Marijuana Use Grows, So Do the Harms

Current Addiction Reports: Racial and Ethnic Differences in Cannabis Use and Cannabis Use Disorder: Implications for Researchers.

Dysmenorrhoea: Can Medicinal Cannabis Bring New Hope for a Collective Group of Women Suffering in Pain, Globally?

Medicinal cannabis for the treatment of anxiety disorders

 Journal of the American College of Cardiology Association of Cannabis Use Disorder With Risk of Coronary Heart Disease

Journal of the American Heart Association: Association of Cannabis Use With Cardiovascular Outcomes Among US Adults

The post Can Cannabis Threaten Your Cardiac Health? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Anxiety and Depression Rates Are On the Rise

“What I know to be true also is that rates of anxiety and depression have gone up,” Dr. Crawford, the author of You Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Your Child’s Mental Health―With Advice from Experts and Wisdom from Real Families.

Children as young as three years old have reported feeling anxious, according to the CDC. Nearly 1 in 5 children ages 3 to 17 (21%) had been diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral health condition.

According to the journal Trials, reports of depression rates for middle and high school-aged children grew exponentially. “From 2001 to 2017, rates increased among Black boys and girls, 60% and 182%, respectively.”

In the report Ring the Alarm: The Crisis of Black Youth Suicide in America, “Self-reported suicide attempts have increased by 73% for Black male and female adolescents over the past 25 years. Meanwhile, Black adolescents are significantly less likely to receive care for depression—a major risk factor for suicide—with pervasive structural inequities, social determinants of health, stigma, and mistrust of healthcare providers creating daunting barriers to treatment.”

Black Children as Young as Five are Attempting Suicide

Dr. Crawford noted that overall, in our community, there is an alarming rate of suicide, suicidal behavior that’s happening in kids, and much younger kids. “We’re doing a lot more research that includes kids as young as five, when historically, we would research suicide and suicidal behavior, we would think about an older population,” the child psychiatrist explained.

“But what we know to be true is that black kids between the ages of five and 12 are two times more likely to attempt and complete suicide, and so kids are struggling, and there’s a lack of good quality mental health supports in the community.”

What Should Parents Do?

If you suspect that your child may be having mental health challenges. Dr. Crawford suggests the following:

Look for Changes in Their Patterns

• eating habits
• sleep cycles
• when they wake up
• energy levels

“Whether it’s in their sleeping habits, energy level, ability to focus and concentrate, or changes in their appetite. That is a signal that something might be different, because that gives you a sense as to how they are functioning from a physical standpoint.”

Monitor Their Academic Performance & Social Circles

• How are they performing in school?
• Is there a change in their interaction with friends?

“If your child has been earning A’s and B’s and is now earning C’s. Getting up late or not attending school; that’s a change in their pattern of behavior,” Dr. Crawford said.
“The same applies to how they interact with their friends. If they used to hang out at Susie’s house every Friday, but now you’re noticing they’re not going out as often.

Parents, if you do notice changes in your child, Dr. Crawford suggests speaking to them from one specific vantage point. “I tell parents to approach their kid from a place of curiosity and explore with their kid the changes in behavior that you’ve noticed,” she said.

“It’s easier to talk about specific behaviors than to approach someone and be like ‘you’re depressed, what’s going on?’ Why are you looking all down? But when you can engage in specific, you know, conversations around particular behaviors, it can make it easier for the kid to give you an answer.”

We Can’t Afford to Ignore our Children’s Mental Health  Anymore

Dr. Crawford shared a sobering statistic: “50% of mental health symptoms occur before age 14, and 75% before the age of 24.”

Some parents may have some hesitation about putting their children on prescription drugs. However, she urges them to consider it from a different perspective.

“People die from these conditions in the same way that someone would die from not having their heart issue treated. It’s the same thing,” she said.

“I try to encourage parents to think about it in that same way., because for the parents, there seems to be a lot of guilt. But would be doing all of that with asthma, no, you want to be doing all of that with a seizure disorder? So why do we feel the need to do that when it comes to major depressive disorder or anxiety?”

We Need to Be Open About Our Positive Mental Health Experiences

“When it comes to mental health, you always hear about the downsides of medication over-prescribing, over-diagnosing, and that you rarely hear about the positive aspects, especially in the black community,” Dr Crawford remarked. “We need to be more open and honest about the treatment that we’ve received for our mental health, and to talk about what it was like to be in therapy. A lot of our families don’t have that knowledge base dealing with the mental health system.”

The post Your Children Have Mental Health Challenges Too appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Chef Lex recalled how his dad learned about new health trends and implemented them into the meals he cooked. “Every other week, he’d tell me about a new superfood he learned about, and we would have that food all week long,” he said.

“I remember garlic week very distinctly. I remember when he found out about walnuts, and we (my siblings and I) would make our granola with walnuts,” he continued.

“But my father was a huge inspiration to my beginning a career in cooking.”

Cultural Heritage and its Connection to Health

When he was growing up, Chef Lex’s Puerto Rican father and Trindadian mother instilled a sense of self-worth in him and his siblings. His parents’ formative years coincided with the era of Black nationalism, a movement that celebrated African pride and Caribbean heritage. “Health was a huge part of it, especially because I have a West Indian background,” he pointed out.

“They were all about home remedies and holistic healing. And food was at the center of that. So as a family, we were constantly searching for healthy ways to enjoy  things that we liked culturally, but in a healthy way.”

One of the things Chef Lex will discuss is how to make healthy substitutions at the upcoming BHM Harlem Week 2025 Health Summit & Expo. The event will take place at Riverside Church on August 14, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Healthy Remedies From the Earth

Alex’s grandmother’s Florida home had a flourishing herb garden. However, she was not above stopping her car if she saw one she could use on the side of the road. “She’d pull up some weeds, and she’d be like, Tell me whatever it is, and then we’d go home, and she’d boil it into some tea, and we’d have to drink it,” he laughed.

“But my grandmother could grow so much more than we could in New York; she would grow Aloe. I mean, she had something in her backyard that was a healing element for anything, Milk Thistle,” he continued.

The Lessons He Learned Still Apply

What is significant is how his siblings and he still incorporate elements of that upbringing into their lives today. The chef explained that during the COVID-19 pandemic, his mother developed an herbal remedy that helped them all recover more quickly.

He has an older sister and a younger brother. He and his sister both have children. During the winter, they are given what they have dubbed “Nanna medicine.”

“It’s a combination of garlic, red onion, fresh turmeric, lemon, manuka honey, and ginger. Blends it up, and then you take a spoonful during the wintertime; they all know they have to take a spoonful a day so that they don’t care for it,” the chef said.

He thinks it’s funny because if they had to take Buckley’s, they might complain more.

The Work of The Brownsville Community Culinary Center

Since 2018, Chef Lex and the entire team at the Brownsville Community Culinary Center have been creating career opportunities, providing tools for healthy living, and so much more in the heart of Brownsville.

The mission of the Brownsville Community Culinary Center is to provide free, world-class culinary vocational training to residents of Brownsville through our culinary training program. We collaborate with numerous site partners to provide a safe and comfortable space where neighbors can access fresh, healthy, affordable, and culturally relevant foods, prepared by training program participants who are apprenticing alongside industry professionals. The BCCC is available to community groups seeking to organize and address issues affecting the neighborhood, as well as to celebrate, relax, learn, train, and enjoy each other’s company.

The Programs

While the program initially targeted Brownsville, it has attracted students interested in the culinary arts from all over New York City, aged 18 to 40. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the center had a functioning cafe and restaurant, where the community could come in and enjoy a healthy meal. However, it will require some funding to get those up and running again. It is a 24-week program consisting of 16 weeks of training and an eight-week internship to secure employment.

However, the heart and soul of the programs are running at full speed, their workforce development programs. “A culinary,  pastry, and maintenance training in a well-equipped kitchen,” he explained.

What They Did During the Pandemic

Another program they are doing grew out of the work they did during the pandemic. “We did a lot of work around food insecurity and health and wellness. The community came to know us as a place where you can get affordable, healthy food,” Chef Lex continued.

The Brownsville Community Culinary Center distributed 10,000 meals a week during the pandemic in partnership with World Central Kitchen, and they have since expanded that work.

Cooking to Manage Chronic Disease

“Most recently, we implemented a ‘Food as Medicine’ initiative as a pilot program, aligning us with the 1115 waiver of Medicaid, which provides funding through insurance for individuals to receive produce bags and medically tailored meals prescribed to them,” Chef Lex said.

“One of our biggest programs is creating meals certified by a registered dietitian that are sensitive to individuals with diabetes, hypertension, or any other chronic disease. That’s diet-related,” he continued.

“Our meals are tailored to support their recovery, to support the prevention of and the management of those chronic diseases. Students are learning to cook, and we use it as a kind of canvas for them to paint on with their culinary skills. This program is an opportunity to heal our neighbors with the food that we cook.”

Join us at the BHM Harlem Week 2025 Summit & Expo

Come out and hear some of Chef Lex’s tips on cooking great food but making healthier choices that don’t sacrifice the flavor—especially if you are managing a chronic disease or trying to prevent one.

 

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For more information on registering for the BHM Harlem Week 2025 Health Summit & Expo, either in-person or virtually. Click here.

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According to the news report, “Warner died near Cocles, a beach in Limon, Costa Rica, police said. He was caught by a high current in the water and was discovered Sunday afternoon.” Updated reports reveal the actor was swimming with his eight-year-old daughter when they were caught in a fast moving current. A surfer used his board to bring his daughter to safety. A volunteer lifeguard rescued another surfer and Warner, who was unresponsive and given CPR for a prolonged period of time.

The Cosby Show actor was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, on August 18, 1970, to Pamela Warner and Robert Warner, Jr. His parents named him after Malcolm X and jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal.

Because he had an early interest in acting, his parents enrolled him in a performing arts school in New York City. Variety reports that he auditioned for the role of Theo Huxtable on the last day of NBC’s nationwide search. Bill Cosby selected Warner himself.

He had a Solid Career as an Actor.

The actor grew up before our eyes on The Cosby Show, getting his first Emmy nomination while working on the show. However, he made sure never to play the same character twice. On Malcolm & Eddie, he played opposite Eddie Griffin, and he cast off his upwardly mobile upbringing. In Reed Between the Lines, he navigated the blended family life with Tracee Ellis Ross, a triple board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon, on The Resident.

Warner was also a Talented Director.

As a teen, Warner got his start directing music videos, according to Variety. He directed New Edition and Special Ed. Later, Warner directed episodes of The Cosby Show, Malcolm & Eddie, Kenan & Kel, All That, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Sesame Street. He won the NAACP Key of Life Image Award for the AIDS awareness video “Timeout: The Truth about HIV, AIDS, and You‘ which starred Magic Johnson and Arsenio Hall.

He was a Musician and Spoken Word Artist

A true multi-hyphenate, Warner is a self-described poet and a bass player, according to his bio. In 2015, Warner nabbed his first Grammy Award for “Best Traditional R&B Performance as a Featured Performer” on Robert Glasper’s version of the Stevie Wonder classic “Jesus Children of America.” Lalah Hathaway was also featured on the track.

Additionally, Warner’s jazz-funk band, Miles Long, has performed at several prominent jazz festivals, including the Playboy Jazz Festival. They also opened for artists such as Earl Klugh and the late Luther Vandross.

He had a new Podcast Project.

Warner was excited about his latest venture. A podcast he was cohosting with Candace Kelly and Weusi Baraka called Not All Hood. He spoke to People about it in early May, and it launched last month. There are three episodes out so far.

“It’s been an interesting experience for me, because it’s a place where I feel safe enough to be able to be as vulnerable as I allow myself to be,” he told the magazine.

His Private Life Was Off Limits

While we were aware of some of his early romances, Warner did not share any information about his private life in recent years; all he would confirm was that he was married and had a daughter. Beyond that, he preferred to keep his personal life private.

Our condolences go out to his entire family.

Note: The World Health Organization says nearly 300,000 people die from drowning each year. That is 30 people every hour. 

The post Malcolm-Jamal Warner Has Died At 54 appeared first on Black Health Matters.

The temporary policies that allowed broad telehealth access and coverage across state lines were set to expire in 2024, with an extension of some services through March of this year. The purpose of this paper is to advocate for the expanded use of telehealth beyond 2025 in the management of blood cancer. Advocates warn that this critical resource may soon disappear unless action is taken.

Why This Matters

“Telehealth wasn’t just about convenience. It lifted real burdens for people who couldn’t easily get to a doctor’s office,” said study co-author Deanna Darlington, a health equity expert and advocate. “It became a lifeline. Taking it away now would only further restrict access to care.” Blood cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma disproportionately affect Black communities. Black Americans are twice as likely to develop and experience poorer outcomes from multiple myeloma specifically. Telemedicine removes two big barriers: travel distance and time out of work or caregiving.

The benefits of telehealth are clear, but the stakes are high for Black Americans. Multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells, disproportionately affects individuals of African ancestry, who face a significantly higher risk of developing the disease compared to those of European descent.

“This increased risk is thought to be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors,” explained co-author Mimi Choon Quinones. “Research suggests that genetic differences, particularly in white blood cell traits, and the prevalence of conditions like MGUS, may play a role. Obesity and chronic infections, which are more common in some African populations, may also contribute to the higher incidence and mortality rates.”

While the science is still evolving, Choon-Quinones emphasized that telemedicine offers a critical path forward, not just for treatment, but also for early detection. “We see telehealth as a tool to help identify who may be at risk, even before a diagnosis, and especially for those who don’t live near a specialist,” she said.

How Telehealth Works

The study team conducted a combination of scientific review and direct engagement with blood cancer advocates, reflecting real-world experiences.

They found that telemedicine:

• Helped patients stick to their treatment plans
• Improved quality of life and emotional well-being
• Reduced time and financial burdens from traveling long distances
• Allowed earlier access to expert consultations, which sometimes occurred across state lines
• Was well accepted by clinicians, especially for follow-up visits and care management

Darlington points out that many of the patients most impacted by blood cancers, especially Black patients, are also the most likely to face access barriers. “You might live in Kansas, and the expert is in New York. Before COVID, state laws prevented you from doing a virtual consultation across state lines, but during the pandemic, those barriers came down. People were finally able to talk to the experts they needed,” she said. “Think about how many people don’t have access to specialists. This gave everyday people that access.”

Times Are Changing

“Right now, there’s no permanent provision to keep telehealth reimbursed,” said Darlington. “If we lose this, we lose the progress we’ve made. This is especially damaging to communities that are already underserved.”

Choon-Quinones agrees and emphasizes that this issue should be a community-wide call to action. “The focus needs to be on how we, as a community, can leverage the regulations that still exist. If they expire, we need to rally, go to Capitol Hill, and raise a strong voice,” she said. “We’ve already engaged with the chairman of the health committee once to extend coverage and succeeded. But I don’t know that we’ll be able to count on this administration to do it again.”

The Passion Behind the Paper

Choon-Quinones joined this project while working on her systematic review of blood cancers, as other co-authors had already spent much time collaborating prior. But she quickly realized that science alone wasn’t enough. By collaborating with advocates, she created a combined evidence base that is both scientifically informed and community-driven.

“I’m passionate about this because it could make an enormous difference to the families and communities that blood cancers like multiple myeloma impact,” she said. “This is a real chance to reduce disparities.”

Darlington echoes that sentiment and urges people to think about the daily realities patients face. “When people are working full-time, caring for family, and managing other chronic conditions, the ability to have a telehealth visit can mean the difference between getting care and going without,” she said. “This is especially true in communities of color, where people are often further away from specialized care, less aware of available resources, and facing more barriers to better health.”

What’s Next?

Telehealth expansion was born out of a nationwide pandemic. It has opened doors that have long been shut for many people.

Telemedicine shouldn’t just be a pandemic-era convenience. It’s a chance to redefine equity in blood cancer care. Initial evidence suggests promise in improving outcomes, reducing costs, and overcoming longstanding racial disparities. For Black Americans, who face higher disease rates and access challenges, virtual care opens a path toward more timely and patient-centered care.

Telemedicine is more than a temporary fix. It’s a vital tool for closing healthcare gaps. For Black Americans living with blood cancers, it can mean earlier diagnoses, easier access to experts, and fewer financial and logistical hurdles. The question now is not whether telehealth works, but what we can do to protect our access to it.

References

 Mikhael, J., Darlington, D., Howell, B., Hydren, J., Hernandez, T., Werner, S., … Choon-Quinones, M. (2025). The benefits of telehealth in promoting equity in blood cancer care – results of a multi-stakeholder forum and systematic literature review. Journal of Medical Economics, 28(1), 788–802.

American Cancer Society. What Is Multiple Myeloma?

The post How Telehealth Can Help Us Fight Blood Cancer appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Nyong’o used her post to share parts of her story, including a discussion with her doctor, in which she inquired about how to prevent the regrowth of her fibroids. Her inquiry was dismissed.

“She said, you can’t. It’s only a matter of time until they grow again.”

Nyong’o Realized She Wasn’t Alone

Statistically speaking, more Black women are suffering from fibroids than those without. According to The Endocrine Review. “The most important and frequently reported risk factor for uterine fibroids is race, disproportionately impacting African American women.”

According to the Uterine Leiomyomata, “Uterine leiomyomata, also known as uterine fibroids, are the most common benign gynecologic tumors, occurring in 50% to 70% of females by menopause, with rates reaching over 80% in Black women.”

Fibroids impact about 15 million women in the United States alone.

What Nyong’o didn’t like was that we are taught to normalize the pain from the moment that we hit puberty. But should we accept it? Because we do, when we start having fibroid pain, many of us silently accept that, too.

As she began talking to others privately, the actress realized she wasn’t alone. And we should no longer suffer in either.

Nyong’o is Teaming Up With Others to Take Action

Nyong’o isn’t speaking up only to share her story with others. She aims to effect changes both in the legislature and in the lives of individuals with fibroids through research. On July 15th, the actress visited Capitol Hill.

She joined Representative Shontel Brown, Representative Yvette Clarke, Senator Angela Alsobrooks, and Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman to discuss uterine health. Last year, Black Health Matters stood in solidarity with Representatives Brown and Clark as they introduced the U-Fight Bill.

The late Representative Stephanie Tubbs Jones first introduced a bill in Congress to fund research on fibroids in 2001. Initially, she wanted it to direct money to the National Institutes of Health. Later, she drafted separate bills asking for a budget for fibroid research and education. Representative Brown, who now serves her constituents in Ohio, continues pushing. This year, Nyong’o joined them in their efforts to push for change.

Nyong’o is Partnering with the Foundation For Women’s Health to Raise Funds for Fibroid Research

The Black Panther actress was also on Capitol Hill discussing the launch of the FWH x Lupita Nyong’o Uterine Fibroid Research Grant with the Foundation for Women’s Health. She wants an inside-outside partnership between the public and private sectors. Fibroids cost the U.S. healthcare system approximately $6 billion annually.

When her grant is funded, Nyong’o aims to leverage the foundation’s expertise to evaluate proposals. She is seeking minimally invasive and non-invasive treatments for fibroids that offer symptom relief and enhance patients’ quality of life.

When she says ‘no more suffering in silence,’ Nyong’o hopes to make it less painful for the sisters who come after us.

Click here for more information on her grant.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Lupita Nyong’o (@lupitanyongo)

Resources

The post Lupita Nyong’o Had 30 Fibroids Removed (Now She’s Taking Action) appeared first on Black Health Matters.

What Is Familial Hypercholesterolemia?

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is one of the most common inherited conditions in the United States, affecting roughly 1 in 250 adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Unlike traditional high cholesterol, FH begins at birth and causes dangerously elevated LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels that clog arteries early and aggressively.

What Is LDL and Why Is It Called “Bad”?

LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein, which is a type of particle that carries cholesterol through your bloodstream. Cholesterol itself isn’t all bad; it helps build cells and produce hormones. But when LDL carries more cholesterol than your body needs, and if there’s too much, it starts to stick to the walls of your arteries.

Over time, this buildup forms plaque, which narrows the arteries and makes it harder for blood to flow. That’s how LDL contributes to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems. It’s not “bad” because of what it is, it’s “bad” because of what it does when it’s out of balance.

The American College of Cardiology recommends that individuals without heart disease aim for LDL levels of 100 mg/dL or lower. For those at high risk, including people with FH, they suggest even lower targets:

• Under 70 mg/dL for individuals with prior cardiovascular events.
• Under 55 mg/dL for those at very high risk.

Our Community is Living the Consequences

Research continues to show that FH outcomes differ sharply across racial groups. Black Americans, in particular, are underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to a higher risk of severe outcomes like heart attacks and stroke.

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that only 61% of Black patients with FH are prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications, compared to 73% of white patients. That disparity matters, and unfortunately, cholesterol doesn’t wait for equity.

The same study highlighted additional challenges:

• 82% of Black adults with FH also have high blood pressure (vs. 50% of white patients).
• 39% live with diabetes (compared to 15%).
• 16% are current smokers, nearly double that of their white counterparts.

A Larger Pattern of Risk

High cholesterol is one thread in a much larger fabric of cardiovascular risk in our community. The American Heart Association’s 2025 Statistical Update reveals that:

• Almost 60% of Black adults live with some form of cardiovascular disease.
• Over half of all heart failure hospitalizations in adults under 50 involve Black patients.
• Stroke rates are highest among Black men and women, with 5.4% of Black women and 4.8% of Black men affected.

It’s not that these numbers are inevitable; it’s that FH isn’t being caught early, and many providers still rely solely on lifestyle assumptions instead of screening for genetics.

Kids Are Being Missed Too

FH doesn’t just show up in adulthood; it’s there from the start. The CDC recommends screening children between the ages of nine and 11 if there’s a family history of early heart disease or cholesterol issues. But only 30% of kids born with FH are diagnosed early, and for Black children, the delays are even longer.

When a parent has FH, each child has a 50% chance of inheriting it. That means genetic testing and early cholesterol panels should be routine, but they’re not.

Getting the Right Treatment Isn’t Always Easy

For most people with high cholesterol, doctors prescribe statins, medications that help lower those numbers and reduce the risk of heart problems. But when cholesterol stays high because of a genetic condition like FH, statins often aren’t enough.

That’s where newer treatments come in. Medications like Praluent and Repatha are part of a group called PCSK9 inhibitors. They’re designed to help the body remove stubborn LDL cholesterol, the kind that clogs arteries even when people eat healthy and exercise. These drugs can make a real difference for people with FH, but without a confirmed case of FH, especially through genetic testing, doctors often won’t prescribe them. And that’s where the gap widens.

A 2025 study published in The American Journal of Human Genetics found that only 27.7% of Black patients received a documented genetic diagnosis, compared to 63.1% of white patients, suggesting that our community is routinely overlooked for the very testing that opens the door to these advanced medications.

Breaking the Cycle

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is often overlooked, especially in Black communities, where delays in diagnosis are common and access to advanced treatment is inconsistent. Knowing your numbers and being proactive can make a real difference. Here’s where to begin:

• Getting a full lipid panel, including LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and, if available, apolipoprotein B.
• Asking about FH directly, not all providers bring it up.
• Encourage your family to get screened, especially younger relatives.
• Pushing for genetic testing if cholesterol levels are high, even with a healthy lifestyle.

The silence surrounding FH isn’t solely a medical issue; it’s systemic. And it’s time to name it, track it, and treat it with the urgency it deserves. Your numbers matter. Your family history matters. And your voice in the exam room can change everything.

Resources

About Familial Hypercholesterolemia | Heart Disease, Family Health History, and Familial Hypercholesterolemia | CDC

2022 ACC Expert Consensus Decision Pathway on the Role of Nonstatin Therapies for LDL-Cholesterol Lowering in the Management of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk: A Report of the American College of Cardiology Solution Set Oversight Committee | JACC

Racial Disparities in Modifiable Risk Factors and Statin Usage in Black Patients With Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Cardiovascular health risks continue to grow within Black communities, action needed | American Heart Association

Testing for Cholesterol | Cholesterol | CDC

Exclusion-based exome sequencing in critically ill adults 18–40 years old has a 24% diagnostic rate and finds racial disparities in access to genetic testing: The American Journal of Human Genetics

The post There Are Racial Differences in Inherited High Cholesterol appeared first on Black Health Matters.

That kind of gap didn’t happen overnight, and closing it takes more than awareness. It means making tools that meet people where they are. That’s why we put together this guide, to break down what foods to avoid, what to focus on, and why it all matters when you’re living with this disease.

Foods to Avoid (and Why)

Certain foods can worsen your condition. Here are a few things to be aware of.

High-Risk Animal Products

Raw or Undercooked Seafood

Sushi and oysters might be trendy, but they’re risky for anyone with liver disease. Raw shellfish can carry bacteria like Vibrio vulnificus, which the CDC warns can cause life-threatening infections in people with liver conditions.

Organ Meats (Especially Liver)

It sounds ironic, but eating liver when you have liver disease is a bad idea. Organ meats are rich in heme iron, which can accumulate in the liver and exacerbate oxidative stress. According to the National Library of Medicine, excess iron is linked to faster progression of liver fibrosis in people with hepatitis C.

Processed Foods and Inflammatory Beverages

High-Sodium Foods

Not only does salt raise blood pressure, but it also contributes to fluid retention and swelling, especially in advanced liver disease. Most experts recommend limiting sodium to no more than 2,300 mg per day and ideally closer to 1,500 mg, especially for people with liver disease, where fluid retention can become a serious complication. That’s in line with guidance from the American Heart Association, and it’s echoed by liver specialists when managing conditions like cirrhosis or hepatitis C.

Alcohol

There is no sugarcoating for this one; alcohol is directly toxic to liver cells. Even small amounts can accelerate liver damage. Researchers believe alcohol may weaken the immune system and make it easier for the virus to take hold.

But the bigger issue is what happens after the infection. Alcohol accelerates liver scarring, also known as fibrosis, increases the risk of cirrhosis, and can interfere with hepatitis C treatment. One study from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs found that people with hepatitis C who drink heavily have 16 times the risk of developing cirrhosis compared to those who don’t drink at all.

Sugary and Ultra-Processed Foods

Refined sugars and trans fats promote insulin resistance and fatty liver disease, both of which make hepatitis C harder to manage. Think of pastries, soda, fast food, and packaged snacks. These foods also contribute to obesity, which raises the risk of fat buildup in the liver. This condition is known as hepatic steatosis.

Iron-Dense Supplements and Vitamins

Multivitamins with iron or high-dose vitamin A can be harmful. The liver stores excess amounts, and in people with hepatitis C, this can lead to toxicity. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking supplements.

What You Should Consider Eating

There’s no official “hepatitis C diet,” but research supports the following:

Vegetables: Especially leafy greens, cruciferous veggies, and berries. Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, collard greens, and arugula, are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and chlorophyll, all of which support the liver’s function more effectively. Chlorophyll may help flush out toxins and heavy metals, while fiber supports digestion and reduces the buildup of waste that can stress the liver.

Fruits: Blueberries, strawberries, and cranberries contain anthocyanins that protect liver cells from oxidative stress and may even help slow the progression of fibrosis.

High-Fiber Foods: Whole grains, legumes, and nuts promote regular digestion and improve insulin sensitivity. Those are two vital factors in preventing fat buildup in the liver.

Healthy fats, such as avocados, fatty fish (like salmon), and olive oil, provide omega-3s and monounsaturated fats that help reduce liver inflammation and support cell repair.

Your Liver May Love Coffee

Believe it or not, your morning cup of coffee might do more than wake you up; it could also help protect your liver.

A 2022 study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that drinking more than three cups of coffee per day was associated with lower liver stiffness, a marker of liver fibrosis. The effect held true even for people with chronic liver conditions like hepatitis C, and it applied to both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee. Researchers have pointed to compounds such as chlorogenic acids and polyphenols, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in liver tissue.

For people managing hepatitis C, coffee isn’t a cure, but it may be a helpful addition to a liver-supportive lifestyle. As always, moderation matters, and it’s best to talk with a healthcare provider about what’s right for you.

Why Diet Matters in Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C causes chronic inflammation in the liver, which can lead to scarring (fibrosis), cirrhosis, or even liver cancer. A poor diet, especially one high in alcohol, sugar, or saturated fats, can accelerate this process. However, a nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet can help slow down the progression, support immune function, and enhance treatment outcomes. Making better lifestyle choices is key to managing hepatitis C.

Think of your diet as a daily investment in your liver’s future. You and your liver deserve the very best.

Resources

Hepatitis C in Black Individuals in the US: A Review | Health Disparities | JAMA | JAMA Network

About Vibrio Infection | Vibrio Infection | CDC

Iron and liver fibrosis: Mechanistic and clinical aspects – PMC

How much sodium should I eat per day? | American Heart Association

Alcohol and cirrhosis – Viral Hepatitis and Liver Disease

Coffee Consumption Is Associated With Lower Liver Stiffness: A Nationally Representative Study

The post What Not to Eat If You Have Hepatitis C appeared first on Black Health Matters.

To unpack what’s behind that gap, we spoke with Tomás León, President and Executive Director of the Equality Health Foundation, which developed the Zip Code Exam to help communities identify and address the everyday conditions that shape health outcomes.

Beneath the Stats

BHM: Why do racial gaps in life expectancy persist, even after years of awareness?

Tomás León: The ZIP code you’re born into still has more influence on your life expectancy than your genetic code. It’s all rooted in systemic inequalities that have gone unaddressed for too long. The pandemic exacerbated these issues and still has a lingering effect.
These disparities persist because the social determinants of health—education, healthcare, housing, food, air, and opportunity—are still distributed unequally. Structural racism, disinvestment in communities of color, and policy decisions that ignore lived realities all contribute.

BHM: What made this the right moment to launch the Zip Code Exam?

Tomás León: We said, “We need a tool like the Zip Code Exam now.” It’s not enough to raise awareness—we need something to spark actionable, community-driven solutions. It helps uncover the invisible, non-medical forces shaping health and empowers grassroots action. With safety nets unraveling, we need to reignite awareness and point people to solutions. It’s a tool for empowerment, advocacy, and change.

BHM: How do you make the data reflect the real experiences of Black communities?

Tomás León: Data often speaks in averages, and averages erase the lived experiences of people outside the norm. We built a listening and communication tool.

The platform reflects community specificity through hyperlocal data and user-defined priorities. It’s not just about what the data says, it’s about what the community says. We consider cultural context, language access, trusted partners, and relevant resources to meet people where they are. The Zip Code Exam restores agency by saying: your story matters, your neighborhood matters, and your health is not an average, it’s personal.

What Your ZIP Code Says

In 2025, your address can still shape your access to health and even how long you live. In many of our neighborhoods, that impact is baked into the environment.

According to the USDA Food Access Research Atlas, grocery stores are harder to reach in areas with high Black populations. The USDA Economic Research Service reports that 22% of Black households are food insecure, more than twice the rate for white households.

The EPA has shown that Black Americans face higher exposure to air pollution, even when income and region are the same. And the CDC’s USALEEP project maps out ZIP codes in states like Mississippi and Louisiana where the life expectancy difference between neighborhoods just 10 miles apart can be as high as 15 years.

These statistics aren’t solely built on personal choices and coincidence; they’re the results of decades of policy. To go even further, we decided to ask León about how mental health connects to the broader discussion.

Collaborative Health

BHM: You’ve worked in public health, mental health, and policy. How does the Zip Code Exam connect to them?

Tomás León: Bridging mental health, public health, and policy is a moral imperative. Health is not siloed. You can’t achieve physical health without mental health, or improve mental health without addressing the social and environmental conditions people live in.

That’s why the Zip Code Exam doesn’t just visualize disparities, it helps dismantle them. It reflects the full spectrum of health, including care, housing, trauma, stress, and resilience. It connects people to local resources and gives leaders data to push for systemic change. We’re mapping possibilities.

Change in Real Time

BHM: Over 200,000 people have already engaged with the site. Can you share a moment that shows what’s at stake when health becomes a matter of geography?

Tomás León: When over 200,000 people engage with a platform like the Zip Code Exam, it’s a chorus of voices telling us where the system is failing and where hope still lives. One ZIP code that really hit home for me was 85004 in South Phoenix, Arizona. This is where the seed for the Zip Code Exam idea was planted. Arizona became the blueprint. And now, we’re scaling it to help more communities take their health into their own hands.

In that community, life expectancy is fourteen years lower than in more affluent neighborhoods like North Scottsdale, just a few miles away. The exam aids residents, they can bring the data to neighborhood meetings, share it with their elected officials, partner with local community-based organizations, churches, and businesses, and begin advocating for better access to healthcare, affordable housing, healthy food, safer streets, employment opportunities, and walkable space. That’s what’s at stake when health becomes a matter of geography. It’s about the opportunity to reclaim power and rewrite the narrative for the next generation.

Redefining Structural Barriers

BHM: In 2022, only 55% of people were projected to live to age 80. The probability of survival from age 20 to 85 was even lower for Black men. Does the platform offer a kind of digital reckoning with structural risk?

Tomás León: Yes, the Zip Code Exam is absolutely a digital reckoning with that reality. It’s designed to expose the invisible architecture of inequality—how where you live, work, and grow up can shape how long and how well you live. But it’s also a tool for action. It helps individuals understand the risks in their environment, connects them to local resources, and empowers communities to advocate for change.

I want policymakers to see this data and realize these outcomes are not inevitable; they’re the result of choices. And we can make different ones.

Earning Trust

BHM: Some folks may see this as just another dashboard. What do you say to Black families who feel like they’ve seen the numbers, the charts, the promises, but not enough change?

Tomás León: That skepticism is real, and it’s earned. The Black community has heard speeches about equity while living through generations of inequity. So, when someone says, “Here’s another tool,” I understand why the first reaction might be, “So what?” I learned from our well-being work in South Phoenix, Arizona that collective impact and transformation happen at the speed of trust.

What makes the Zip Code Exam different is that it wasn’t built for institutions, it was built for community members and leaders. It shows the numbers and helps you act on them. And we know it’s not perfect. That’s why we welcome feedback from families, organizers, and anyone using the platform. We’re committed to improving it so it truly works with and for communities. Because the only way this tool succeeds is if it reflects the voices and needs of the people it’s meant to serve.

I want community members to use this tool to organize, demand investment, and build healthier futures—ZIP code by ZIP code. We know that behind every data point, there is a life. And behind every life, there is a story worth fighting for.

Resources

ZIP CODE EXAM: Calculate your life expectancy based on your ZIP Code

National Vital Statistics Reports Volume 74, Number 2 April 8, 2025 United States Life Tables, 2022

Equality Health Foundation – Equality Health Foundation

USDA Food Access Research Atlas

Food Security in the U.S. – Key Statistics & Graphics | Economic Research Service

CDC’s USALEEP project

The post Does Your ZIP Code Determine Your Life Expectancy? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Types of strokes

Hemorrhagic: caused by a weakened blood vessel that ruptures and bleeds into the brain.

Ischemic: caused by a blockage, like a clot in a blood vessel

The three types of heat strokes

Exertional heat stroke: caused by strenuous physical activity in hot and humid conditions

Non-exertional heat stroke: caused by the body’s ability to cool itself being overwhelmed by environmental heat.

Vehicular heatstroke: most commonly found in kids, caused by being trapped in a vehicle under extreme heat conditions.

Who is at risk for heat stroke?

Age: Older adults aged 65+, pregnant individuals, kids

Sex: Female

Ethnicity: Between 2005 and 2015, emergency department visits for heat-related causes increased the most by African Americans at 67%, followed closely by 63% for Hispanics,  and 53% for Asian Americans. Just  27% of white individuals visited the emergency room during that same period, according to a report in the Wilderness and Environmental Medicine journal.

Health conditions: chronic conditions such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

How to tell the difference between a heat stroke and a stroke?

Symptoms of a stroke

• Numbness or weakness in one side of the body
• Arm weakness
• Trouble speaking
• Vision problems
•  Difficulty maintaining balance
• Severe headache

Symptoms of heat stroke

• Fever of 104°F or greater
• Hot and dry skin
• Fainting
• Changes in mental status, such as confusion
• Nausea and vomiting
• Flushed skin
• Coma
•  Seizures
•  Rapid breathing

What to do if somebody is showing symptoms?

Stroke: When somebody is suspected to have a stroke, it is essential to act F.A.S.T.

F.A.S.T. stands for facial drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulties, and time to call 911.

To test for facial drooping, ask the person to smile and see if one side of the face droops.

To test arm weakness, ask the person to raise both arms and see if one arm drifts down.

To test for speech difficulties, ask them to repeat a simple phrase and see if they can say the phrase clearly.

Finally, if someone is showing one or more of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.

It is important to keep F.A.S.T. in mind, as the CDC states that only 38% of American adults knew to call 911 when somebody was showing signs of a stroke.

Heat Stroke: Call 911 if the person is experiencing symptoms of heat stroke.

Then, you can move the person away from the heat immediately and remove any excess clothing they may be wearing. You can also cool the person with whatever is available in the meantime. This can include placing ice packs on the person, spraying them with a hose, and immersing the person in a cool tub of water. If the person loses consciousness, begin CPR.

The post Is it Heat Stroke or a Stroke? appeared first on Black Health Matters.

Lying on The Floor in The Locker Room Before A Final is Scary

One incident occurred before the 2016 Wimbledon doubles finals: “I was just lying on the floor in the locker room; Thank God, Serena went and got the doctor,” Williams said. “And I was able to eat, and start playing… bad luck for our opponents.”

They’re laughing, but it isn’t really funny. She is a Black woman who had to play through her pain because that is what we do. They won, but what did that cost her?

The Stats

Up to 70-80% women will be diagnosed with fibroids in their lifetime. But Black women are 2-3 times more likely to receive that diagnosis, and our symptoms will be more severe.

Was Her Anemia Sjögren’s or Something Else?

Williams believed that because she had been experiencing heavy periods and was in a state of constant anemia, it was caused by her autoimmune disease. In 2011, she withdrew from the U.S. Open, revealing for the first time that she had been diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain.

Williams Didn’t Know the Extent of Her Fibroid Diagnosis

The Grand Slam Champion told Essamuah she didn’t know that her fibroid was the size of an orange. “One doctor told me, at the time I was like 37. Eh, this is part of aging, this is normal,” Williams explained.

A doctor told her her option was a hysterectomy. “I have never been so sad in my life. I had never been running to have kids,” William continued. “But to have that taken away was frightening.”

Williams Saw 12 Doctors Before She Found Someone Who Could Help

When the doctor recommended a hysterectomy, Williams began doing her own research. She found the NYU Langone Health Center for Fibroid Care, led by Dr. Taraneh Shirazian.

Dr. Shirazian said, “I think Venus’ story is a very common story. I think women do not get the care that they need. Even when she came to see me, she said, ‘I’ve seen a dozen other doctors.”

Williams then inquired why Dr. Shirazian recommended a surgical procedure—a myomectomy to remove her fibroids. “Because I know it will make you feel better,” Dr. Shirazian replied.

The tennis champ is now a year post-surgery. “I have been taking this time to rest and recover and be a happy person without fibroids.”

She has been training a bit, and the 45-year-old has not ruled out playing again. When asked if she believes having fibroids impacted her professional tennis career, she said, “I never had enough energy to play a real match the way I wanted to, of course it affected my results.”

Williams said, “You can be denied the best healthcare no matter who you are.”

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We spoke with Dr. Pratik A. Shukla to explore why this option remains overlooked and what it will take to achieve true reproductive justice.

Why Don’t More Women Know About UFE?

BHM: You perform UFE at Rutgers, yet many women still don’t know it exists. Why is that?

Dr. Pratik A. Shukla: UFE is a minimally invasive procedure that cuts off the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink and ultimately disappear. It’s done through a small incision in the wrist or groin, and most patients go home the same day without stitches. Recovery is fast, and it’s been shown to be as effective as surgery. Still, it’s underutilized, partly because patients typically see a gynecologist first. Unless that gynecologist refers them to interventional radiology, they may never hear about UFE.

The reality matches that concern. A 2024 survey conducted by the Society of Interventional Radiology found that only 17 percent of women diagnosed with fibroids recalled being offered UFE as a treatment, while hysterectomy remained the dominant recommendation. The data highlights a larger disconnect in the way treatment pathways are presented, one that continues to limit how fully informed patients can be.

The Disproportionate Burden on Black Women

BHM: Fibroids disproportionately impact Black women. What’s driving that disparity?

Dr. Shukla: It’s largely genetic. Black and Hispanic women are more likely to develop fibroids and have more severe symptoms. There’s also a cultural aspect; some women delay care because their symptoms seem “normal” within their community, which can lead to later diagnoses and more advanced cases.

National estimates cited by Michigan Medicine report that nearly a quarter of Black women between the ages of 18 and 30 have fibroids, compared to about 6 percent of white women. By age 35, that number rises to 60 percent for Black women. The women in our community are also significantly more likely to experience recurring fibroids and undergo hysterectomies, often during their peak reproductive years.

Reaching the Communities That Need It Most

BHM: In a world of misinformation, what does real education and outreach look like? What approaches have proven most effective in reaching women who might otherwise never hear about UFE?

Dr. Shukla: I work predominantly in an underserved community with low health literacy, where fibroids are endemic to the population, and I’ve been trying to find ways to increase awareness and do patient outreach. I’ve tried it all—education for gynecologists through grand round lectures, patient education tools, traditional marketing like social media, personally going out with a team of educators into the community for health fairs, and even partnering with UFE support groups like The White Dress Project.

What I’ve found is that the only truly effective method, especially in underserved minority communities, is a boots-on-the-ground approach. However, that requires a significant amount of person power and time. Currently, I’m leading the Uterine Fibroid Embolization Awareness Workgroup within the Radiology Health Equity Coalition.

The goal is to build teams of motivated medical students at academic centers in urban areas with similar demographics, allowing us to increase these efforts in a coordinated manner. Medical students and residents have an incentive to engage in productive volunteering, such as patient education and awareness, with the support of attending physician mentors like me.

A Closer Look at the Numbers

According to the Society of Interventional Radiology, 72% of women surveyed were unaware that they were at risk for fibroids. Meanwhile, research compiled by the USA Fibroid Centers shows that over 85 percent of UFE patients report improved quality of life after treatment, often in outpatient settings.

As the data continues to accumulate, access to options like UFE remains fragmented. Awareness gaps and referral breakdowns still limit informed choice, especially for Black women. Reproductive justice requires consistent access to the full spectrum of care.

Shifting the Standard

BHM: If you had unlimited resources to reshape fibroid care for Black women, what would be your first move? What’s the one thing standing between the current reality and a future where treatment disparities no longer exist?

Dr. Shukla: The one thing standing between the current reality and the future is access to these patients. The one thing I would focus on is educating patients directly, those who have the most incentive to treat their conditions safely and effectively, in this case, with a minimally invasive alternative to surgery. I believe the referral pattern remains a hurdle for patients to access an interventional radiologist for these discussions.

If I had unlimited resources, I would launch a nationwide campaign with the help of influential individuals, including legislators, celebrities, and influencers, to increase awareness of this procedure to the point where patients would demand referrals. If we generate enough data suggesting disparities, we can hopefully engage in discussions with major media outlets to help increase awareness.

Resources

Are Black Women More Likely To Get Fibroids?

SIR Patient Resource on Uterine Fibroids Includes National Survey Results on Patient Awareness – Endovascular Today

Understanding Racial Disparities for Women with Uterine Fibroids

The White Dress Project

Uterine Fibroid Resources | Radiology Health Equity Coalition

Survey finds most women with uterine fibroids are offered hysterectomies over minimally invasive treatments | Society of Interventional Radiology

Quality of Life Assessment After Uterine Artery Embolization in Patients with Fibroids Treated in an Ambulatory Setting

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Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression linked to seasonal changes, typically starting and concluding around the same period each year.

There are two types of SAD:

1. Fall-onset: Often referred to as winter depression, symptoms emerge in the late fall or early winter and usually improve during the summer months.

2. Spring-onset: Known as summer depression, symptoms arise in late spring or early summer. This form is significantly less common.

People with Summer SAD may experience reduced melatonin levels, which supports the idea that long, hot days can worsen sleep quality and contribute to depression symptoms. While it’s true that longer daylight hours, shorter nights, and higher temperatures can also disrupt sleep, these theories have not been systematically tested.

What Are the Symptoms of SAD?

Symptoms of Depression:

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Decreased energy, fatigue, or a sense of being slowed down
• Difficulty with concentration, memory, or decision-making
• Physical symptoms such as aches, headaches, cramps, or digestive issues without a clear cause that don’t improve with treatment.

For those experiencing Summer SAD, additional symptoms may include:

•  Insomnia or trouble sleeping
• Poor appetite leading to weight loss
• Restlessness and agitation
• Anxiety
• Aggressive or violent behavior

If you or someone you know is displaying symptoms of Summer SAD, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider or mental health specialist. They may ask you to complete a questionnaire to assess whether your symptoms meet the criteria for SAD.

Johns Hopkins Health Plans offers a Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Quiz that you can take here. However, please note that this quiz is not a substitute for a healthcare provider’s opinion or diagnosis.

While the longer days and sunshine of summer are welcomed by many, they can cast unexpected shadows for those with Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder. Seeking professional help and actively managing your mental health are key to finding balance and enjoying the season.

How Do You Treat Summer SAD?

In addition to seeking help from a mental health professional,  Dr. Rohit Madan, an assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Arizona, suggests avoiding caffeinated beverages and drinking lots of fluids, especially water.

“You should also engage in activities that promote self-care, relaxation, and stress reduction. This may include practicing mindfulness or meditation, engaging in regular physical exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, getting sufficient sleep, and establishing a daily routine,” he says.

If you are suffering from insomnia associated with Summer SAD, Everyday Health suggests trying podcasts like GetSleepy, BoringBooksforBedtime,  or apps like Calm or a sound machine.

Take some time for deep breathing. It is an essential part of self-care.

Resources

Johns Hopkins Medicine: Seasonal Affective Disorder

National Institute of Mental Health. Seasonal Affective Disorder

Johns Hopkins HealthCare. Take the Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Quiz.

Mayo Clinic. Seasonal Affective Disorder: Symptoms & Causes.

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Yeztugo Is More Effective than the Oral PrEP

In clinical trials, the Yeztugo injections were shown to be more effective than the daily oral PrEP medication, Truvada. The first trial resulted in zero infections, with 100% efficacy among 2,134 trial participants who received the Yeztugo injections. The second trial resulted in two HIV infections, and 99.9% of the 2.179 participants did not. The Journal Science named lenacapavir the 2024 Breakthrough Drug of the Year.

HIV is Still a Threat to Our Community

HIV/AIDs is still a serious health threat to our community. While there have been significant advances in treatment, which have resulted in contracting HIV not necessarily equaling death, the rates of infections continue to increase, particularly in the South.

Yeztugo injections could be an opportunity for at-risk individuals in our community to protect themselves because Black Americans account for 39% of new HIV diagnoses overall, but only 14% of PrEP users.

However, when we break things down by region, we gain a clearer understanding. According to the information supplied by AIDSVu, a public resource for HIV surveillance data in partnership with Gilead and Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health, our HIV numbers are higher in the South and the Midwest at 48% and 42% with PrEP users at rates of 22% and 13%.

Upon further examination, we find that 64% of PrEP users fall within the 25 -44 age range. There is an opportunity for education and outreach around this breakthrough.

The Yeztugo Cost Factor

The list price of Yeztugo is $14,109 per injection. Getting the injection versus the pill may be challenging. Gilead Sciences notes that they are collaborating with insurers, healthcare systems, and other payers to ensure broad coverage. In addition, those with commercial insurance can take advantage of Gilead’s Advancing Access CoPay Savings Program to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Therefore, having coverage for this drug will be vital.

However, there may be a potential issue for anyone who is covered under Obamacare. According to NBC News, a pending Supreme Court case related to the Affordable Care Act is up for a decision that could be a barrier for medications that prevent HIV. Currently, PrEP is covered at no cost. Should the court decide against these medications, then they would no longer be free.

The case before the court, however, is not just about HIV medication but all preventative healthcare, from mental health to cardiovascular, cancer, and STI screenings. The ruling could impact more than 150 million Americans.

A Bigger Problem: Access

Poz.com reports that many HIV advocates and organizations are excited about Yeztugo, but are unified in their concerns that this drug may not be accessible to the populations who may need it the most.

Michael Chancley, Communication and Mobilization Director at Prep4All, said, “The stakes couldn’t be higher for communities of color that have yet to significantly benefit from PrEP. “Lenacapavir shows real innovation for cisgender women and other communities facing unique barriers to adhering to a daily pill, but I fear that we may see the same challenges in access that we saw with Apretude which, despite being the first long-acting PrEP available in the U.S., continues to make up only 2% of PrEP scripts.”

In a statement, Kevin Robert Frost, CEO of Amfar, wrote, “PrEP is one of the most indispensable tools we have for ending the HIV epidemic. Having the option of a twice-annual shot, rather than relying on a daily pill, will make long-term adherence to PrEP much easier for many.

But this remarkable drug will only be as effective as it is accessible and affordable. amfAR calls on Gilead Sciences and the U.S. government to do everything in their power to make sure as many people who want lenacapavir can get it,” he continued.

Complicating things further is that domestic funding for HIV is on the chopping block. The President’s 2026 budget request, which includes a 35% cut,  $1.5 billion for domestic HIV funding. This includes closing the CDC HIV Prevention Division to cut $794 million from the budget.

We Remain Hopeful

The drug is just rolling out, so people receiving prescriptions now may not get their first shot for two months. But we remain hopeful that Yeztugo clears some of these necessary hurdles and reaches those who can benefit from it most.

Resources

FDA Approves Yeztugo

Science: The Biggest Science Breakthroughs 2024

AIDSVU Prep for Prep Equity Platform

PrEP4All Statement

AmFar Statement

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“Official diagnosis. They used the word ‘severely,’” she continued. “My life and its challenges finally make sense. So, so much sense.” At 42, she finally has a name for what has silently shaped her world—autism spectrum disorder.

 

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A Diagnosis That Redefines Everything

Autism spectrum disorder is often diagnosed early in life, but not always accurately, and not for everyone. Black girls and women, in particular, are often overlooked by diagnostic frameworks designed around young, white boys. Symptoms can manifest differently. Behaviors are often explained away as moodiness, anxiety, or “attitude.”

The numbers speak volumes, according to the CDC’s 2025 report, 1 in 31 children in the U.S. are identified with autism, with Black children diagnosed at higher rates than white children, a trend first observed in 2020 and continuing today. This reflects broader progress in identifying autism in historically underserved communities. Still, diagnosis among Black girls and women remains delayed. Many, like Michele, spend years adapting, masking, and quietly questioning why their experiences feel out of sync with those around them. Her diagnosis doesn’t change who she is. It just changes how we understand the path she’s walked.

Career Under Scrutiny

Michele’s journey through the music industry has never been simple. While she earned early acclaim for her voice and songwriting, her 2017 performance at Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration changed everything. The backlash was intense, her label dropped her, radio support disappeared, and even some friends and family distanced themselves.
In the years since, she’s spoken openly about the fallout. At the time, she didn’t anticipate the response. Now, with a clearer understanding of her autism, that disconnect makes more sense.

Individuals on the autism spectrum often face challenges with social reasoning, risk assessment, or navigating the complexities of perception and response. Her diagnosis doesn’t redefine those moments, but it offers new context, an added layer to how she processed, navigated, and ultimately stood by a choice that became one of the most scrutinized of her career.

During the same period, Michele experienced a miscarriage and a period of deep depression, trials she spoke about candidly on social media, including the physical and emotional toll of that grief. She didn’t vanish; she simply stepped back to heal.

Showing up Without the Mask

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, processes information, and experiences the world. It exists on a spectrum, meaning it appears differently in every individual. Some may struggle with sensory sensitivity, social cues, or repetitive behaviors, while others may simply relate to the world in less conventional ways.

Since sharing her diagnosis, Michele has returned to the stage. But not in the same way. “Stripping the mask,” she called it, one show at a time. According to Psychology Today, for many neurodivergent people, “masking” is the exhausting act of hiding traits and behaviors to avoid being judged or misunderstood. It’s often developed unconsciously, especially by women. It works until it burns you out.

Now, she’s choosing differently. That doesn’t mean shouting her diagnosis at every performance. It means showing up in ways that are more sustainable, more honest, and more in line with her style. Best of all, audiences are meeting her there. The response has been overwhelmingly supportive, not just from fans, but also from others who have been late-diagnosed or have long suspected something about themselves that never quite fit the typical mold. Her story is making space for even more stories.

What Her Story Teaches Us

Chrisette Michele isn’t turning her diagnosis into a new brand. She’s not suddenly the face of neurodivergence. She’s simply saying: this is what was always true. And now that she knows it, she can move through the world with more clarity. Her journey serves as a poignant reminder of how many people carry the weight of uncertainty and how powerful it can be when they finally find clarity.

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