Hypertension affects nearly 44% of African Americans in the US.
May 5, 2023, Berkeley, CA, According to the American Heart Association, African Americans have one of the highest rates of hypertension (high blood pressure) in the world. In the United States, it is estimated that nearly 44% of African American adults have hypertension, which is higher than any other racial or ethnic group. Hypertension is a significant risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other health problems, so it is crucial to manage it through lifestyle changes and/or medication. Learn more about how high blood pressure and hypertension affect the body and what to do about it.
There are several reasons why African Americans are disproportionately affected by hypertension compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
There is evidence that certain genetic factors may increase the risk of hypertension in African Americans. For example, African Americans are more likely to have a gene that causes their bodies to retain salt, which can increase blood pressure. One example is a gene variant known as the APOL1 gene, which is more common in people of African descent. This gene variant is associated with an increased risk of kidney disease, which can lead to hypertension. Another genetic factor that may contribute to hypertension in African Americans is a variation in the gene that encodes for the enzyme that converts angiotensinogen to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a hormone that regulates blood pressure by constricting blood vessels, and variations in this gene have been linked to higher levels of angiotensin II and an increased risk of hypertension. In addition, some studies have suggested that African Americans may be more likely to have a gene variant that causes their bodies to retain salt. This can lead to an increase in blood volume and blood pressure, which can contribute to hypertension.
African Americans are more likely to live in environments that are associated with higher rates of hypertension, such as urban areas with limited access to healthy food options and safe places to exercise. African Americans are more likely to live in neighborhoods with limited access to healthy food options and safe places to exercise, which are known as "food deserts" and "physical activity deserts." These areas are often located in urban environments and are characterized by a lack of grocery stores and fresh food markets, as well as limited access to safe parks and recreational facilities. As a result, residents may rely on fast food and other unhealthy options, which can contribute to higher rates of obesity and hypertension. If you happen to live in such an area, start buying from online stores like Walmart, Target, and Grocery Outlet. You can order online or drive to them.
Chronic stress caused by experiences of racism and discrimination can activate the body's "fight or flight" response, which can increase blood pressure and heart rate over time. This chronic stress can also contribute to the development of other risk factors for hypertension, such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Constant exposure to racism and discrimination can also contribute to hypertension in African Americans. African Americans are more likely to experience discrimination in healthcare settings, which can lead to mistrust and avoidance of medical care. This can result in undiagnosed and untreated hypertension, as well as other health problems. Speak up or change doctors. You can get great care at Kaiser Permanente and other health care providers. The key is to tell the doctor what you actually feel and ask questions. Bring a relative or a friend with you, since medical care professionals often are more attentive when you are accompanied by a witness. If you don't understand or if you feel the doctor isn't listening or explaining the options of care speak up! Ask questions and have your relative or friend write everything down. It is an easy way to get better attention.
Make healthy lifestyle choices. Quit smoking and instead get more exercise. Exercise reduces stress and makes you feel great. Watch your salt intake. Salt is very unhealthy and increases blood pressure. Taste your food before you add salt. It might not need it. Check the label before you drink or eat anything. Sodium and saturated fats are bad for you and unfortunately, a lot of packaged foods have way too much salt. It is often called sodium on the labels. It is unhealthy to have more than 1,500 mg which is about 2/3rd of a teaspoon of salt per day. Most likely you get most of that from the packaged foods, and the natural sodium in the food. Vegetables, all packaged foods have loads of sodium. It might be better to start eating fresh foods that were not packaged and full of preservatives that are often made of salt, sodium, sodium chloride, Monosodium glutamate (MSG), Baking soda, sodium nitrate, sodium nitrite, sodium bisulfite, and many more. It is a great idea to learn how to read food labels. Harvard has created a great website about that, and it is easy to understand. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-label-guide/
Get your health care needs addressed. You pay taxes and if you don't earn enough to pay for private insurance, Covered California can guide you. If your employer doesn't offer insurance, or you don't earn enough money to pay for it you might qualify for health care anyway. Don't put it off, the people at Covered California are really nice. Depending on your earnings they might send you to Social Services in your county. There you might have to call a few times to get someone who his helpful. Don't give up keep calling until you have it figured out. Once you have coverage for yourself and your loved ones you will have less stress. You deserve to be cared for, must as much as the next person. So just do it! To learn more about hypertension watch the video here.
There are several reasons why African Americans are disproportionately affected by hypertension compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
There is evidence that certain genetic factors may increase the risk of hypertension in African Americans. For example, African Americans are more likely to have a gene that causes their bodies to retain salt, which can increase blood pressure. One example is a gene variant known as the APOL1 gene, which is more common in people of African descent. This gene variant is associated with an increased risk of kidney disease, which can lead to hypertension. Another genetic factor that may contribute to hypertension in African Americans is a variation in the gene that encodes for the enzyme that converts angiotensinogen to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a hormone that regulates blood pressure by constricting blood vessels, and variations in this gene have been linked to higher levels of angiotensin II and an increased risk of hypertension. In addition, some studies have suggested that African Americans may be more likely to have a gene variant that causes their bodies to retain salt. This can lead to an increase in blood volume and blood pressure, which can contribute to hypertension.
African Americans are more likely to live in environments that are associated with higher rates of hypertension, such as urban areas with limited access to healthy food options and safe places to exercise. African Americans are more likely to live in neighborhoods with limited access to healthy food options and safe places to exercise, which are known as "food deserts" and "physical activity deserts." These areas are often located in urban environments and are characterized by a lack of grocery stores and fresh food markets, as well as limited access to safe parks and recreational facilities. As a result, residents may rely on fast food and other unhealthy options, which can contribute to higher rates of obesity and hypertension. If you happen to live in such an area, start buying from online stores like Walmart, Target, and Grocery Outlet. You can order online or drive to them.
Chronic stress caused by experiences of racism and discrimination can activate the body's "fight or flight" response, which can increase blood pressure and heart rate over time. This chronic stress can also contribute to the development of other risk factors for hypertension, such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Constant exposure to racism and discrimination can also contribute to hypertension in African Americans. African Americans are more likely to experience discrimination in healthcare settings, which can lead to mistrust and avoidance of medical care. This can result in undiagnosed and untreated hypertension, as well as other health problems. Speak up or change doctors. You can get great care at Kaiser Permanente and other health care providers. The key is to tell the doctor what you actually feel and ask questions. Bring a relative or a friend with you, since medical care professionals often are more attentive when you are accompanied by a witness. If you don't understand or if you feel the doctor isn't listening or explaining the options of care speak up! Ask questions and have your relative or friend write everything down. It is an easy way to get better attention.
Make healthy lifestyle choices. Quit smoking and instead get more exercise. Exercise reduces stress and makes you feel great. Watch your salt intake. Salt is very unhealthy and increases blood pressure. Taste your food before you add salt. It might not need it. Check the label before you drink or eat anything. Sodium and saturated fats are bad for you and unfortunately, a lot of packaged foods have way too much salt. It is often called sodium on the labels. It is unhealthy to have more than 1,500 mg which is about 2/3rd of a teaspoon of salt per day. Most likely you get most of that from the packaged foods, and the natural sodium in the food. Vegetables, all packaged foods have loads of sodium. It might be better to start eating fresh foods that were not packaged and full of preservatives that are often made of salt, sodium, sodium chloride, Monosodium glutamate (MSG), Baking soda, sodium nitrate, sodium nitrite, sodium bisulfite, and many more. It is a great idea to learn how to read food labels. Harvard has created a great website about that, and it is easy to understand. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/food-label-guide/
Get your health care needs addressed. You pay taxes and if you don't earn enough to pay for private insurance, Covered California can guide you. If your employer doesn't offer insurance, or you don't earn enough money to pay for it you might qualify for health care anyway. Don't put it off, the people at Covered California are really nice. Depending on your earnings they might send you to Social Services in your county. There you might have to call a few times to get someone who his helpful. Don't give up keep calling until you have it figured out. Once you have coverage for yourself and your loved ones you will have less stress. You deserve to be cared for, must as much as the next person. So just do it! To learn more about hypertension watch the video here.
COVID-19 - unvaccinated people are 5x more likely to get COVID and Long COVID
George Y Pearson discusses COVID and why it is highly recommended to get fully vaccinated.
April 18, 2023, Berkeley, CA Unvaccinated people are five times more likely to get COVID and Long COVID. Get vaccinated!
CDC data shows that the updated boosters are called “updated” because they protect against both the original virus that causes COVID-19 and the Omicron variant BA.4 and BA.5. Two COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers, Pfizer and Moderna, have developed updated COVID-19 boosters. If you have not received the vaccination - unfortunately, communities of color, lack the access and the clinicians. As a result more Latinos and Blacks are not vaccinated. Additionally, many doctors have trouble identifying the symptoms of Long COVID.
George Y. Pearson describes the symptoms as being extremely tired, weak, and having a difficult time thinking or remembering things. Long COVID affects the quality of life, and patients may have trouble with schooling or work. They might even need caregiving help from a family member or professional. According to a study by Porter Novelli, symptoms often include headache, general weakness and feeling exhausted, loss of smell, moodiness, muscle pain, heart palpitations, and more. This can severely affect the outcome for students and it has a negative impact on the the income of the sick person and family members ho have to help them out. People with previous chronic conditions, like diabetes, heart issues, etc. are at an even higher risk if they are not vaccinated.
Long COVID happens five times more likely to unvaccinated people over vaccinated people. If you have not been as yet fully vaccinated make sure you get the vaccine. It is not worth to take the risk. The COVID-19 pandemic had major impacts on education for all students, pre-school all the way through post-graduate students. due to suspension of in-person classes at the height of the pandemic, prolonged remote learning, disruptions among families with COVID-19, and illnesses among teachers and staff. Why take the risk to create more problems by not being vaccinated?
Did you know that you can get the vaccine at Walgreens? All you have to do it make an appointment, check this link. If you are uninsured there is help available as well. https://www.healthforcalifornia.com/blog/covid-19-vaccine.
Updated COVID-19 boosters became available on:
CDC data shows that the updated boosters are called “updated” because they protect against both the original virus that causes COVID-19 and the Omicron variant BA.4 and BA.5. Two COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers, Pfizer and Moderna, have developed updated COVID-19 boosters. If you have not received the vaccination - unfortunately, communities of color, lack the access and the clinicians. As a result more Latinos and Blacks are not vaccinated. Additionally, many doctors have trouble identifying the symptoms of Long COVID.
George Y. Pearson describes the symptoms as being extremely tired, weak, and having a difficult time thinking or remembering things. Long COVID affects the quality of life, and patients may have trouble with schooling or work. They might even need caregiving help from a family member or professional. According to a study by Porter Novelli, symptoms often include headache, general weakness and feeling exhausted, loss of smell, moodiness, muscle pain, heart palpitations, and more. This can severely affect the outcome for students and it has a negative impact on the the income of the sick person and family members ho have to help them out. People with previous chronic conditions, like diabetes, heart issues, etc. are at an even higher risk if they are not vaccinated.
Long COVID happens five times more likely to unvaccinated people over vaccinated people. If you have not been as yet fully vaccinated make sure you get the vaccine. It is not worth to take the risk. The COVID-19 pandemic had major impacts on education for all students, pre-school all the way through post-graduate students. due to suspension of in-person classes at the height of the pandemic, prolonged remote learning, disruptions among families with COVID-19, and illnesses among teachers and staff. Why take the risk to create more problems by not being vaccinated?
Did you know that you can get the vaccine at Walgreens? All you have to do it make an appointment, check this link. If you are uninsured there is help available as well. https://www.healthforcalifornia.com/blog/covid-19-vaccine.
Updated COVID-19 boosters became available on:
- September 2, 2022, for people aged 12 years and older
- October 12, 2022, for people aged 5–11 years
- December 9, 2022, for children aged 6 months–4 years who completed the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine primary series
- March 17, 2023, for children aged 6 months–4 years who completed their 3-dose primary series with the original Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
Sistah B Mellow discusses breast cancer and its prevention with George Y Pearson.
Sistah B Mellow with George Y Pearson talking about improving the health care in the community.
Barbara Howard founded the B.H. Brilliant Minds to
Empower Brilliant Minds To Take Control of Their Own Destiny!
Women's voices matter. The focus on the conversation is breast cancer. Women need to get their estrogen tested. Get you mammograms and self exams are important. Often husbands can check and help out. A healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of breast cancer. If a relative has had breast cancer you have a higher risk and need to be check earlier. While the general public might wish to start at 42 years of age to get their mammograms done, women of color should get them much earlier. Sistah B Mellow recommends that women ask each other whether they had their mammogram done. Ask each other and encourage the tests. Some women have the cancer gene. Once a cancer-predisposing BRCA1 or BRCA2 germline pathogenic variant has been identified in a family, testing of at-risk relatives can identify those family members who also have the familial pathogenic variant and thus needto be tested sooner and more often and specific treatments when a cancer is identified.
One in eight women worldwide will be diagnosed with breast cancer. However, early detection is essential. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, an estimated 287,500 new cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed in women in the U.S. 65% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at a localized stage (there is no sign that cancer has spread outside of the breast), for which the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.
After heart disease, cancer is the second highest cause of death for women. This year, an estimated 43,550 women will die from breast cancer in the U.S.U.S. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer, other than skin cancer. Being overweight or obese increases the risk, especially after menopause. Exercising at least five times a week lowers the risk. One way to reduce weight and improve overall health and immunity is to eat many fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources. It is also a good idea to limit saturated fats. Did you know breastfeeding helps reduce the risk of getting cancer, especially if the nursing lasts over a year?
BH Brilliant Minds Project, Inc. provides Youth and Young Adults with special techniques and tools to enhance their life and social skills to help their career paths. Barbara Howard and her daughter organize panel discussions, several Juneteenth Celebrations, and various educational programs. They provide a platform for their voices. They will become change agents and innovators who will take control of their destinies. Learn more about their programs by visiting their home page and watch their educations videos at https://www.bhbrilliantminds.org/tap-in-series.html
One in eight women worldwide will be diagnosed with breast cancer. However, early detection is essential. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, an estimated 287,500 new cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed in women in the U.S. 65% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at a localized stage (there is no sign that cancer has spread outside of the breast), for which the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.
After heart disease, cancer is the second highest cause of death for women. This year, an estimated 43,550 women will die from breast cancer in the U.S.U.S. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer, other than skin cancer. Being overweight or obese increases the risk, especially after menopause. Exercising at least five times a week lowers the risk. One way to reduce weight and improve overall health and immunity is to eat many fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources. It is also a good idea to limit saturated fats. Did you know breastfeeding helps reduce the risk of getting cancer, especially if the nursing lasts over a year?
BH Brilliant Minds Project, Inc. provides Youth and Young Adults with special techniques and tools to enhance their life and social skills to help their career paths. Barbara Howard and her daughter organize panel discussions, several Juneteenth Celebrations, and various educational programs. They provide a platform for their voices. They will become change agents and innovators who will take control of their destinies. Learn more about their programs by visiting their home page and watch their educations videos at https://www.bhbrilliantminds.org/tap-in-series.html
Marcus Lorenzo Penn, MD, interview with Education is the Best Medicine
George Y. Pearson interview with Dr. Marcus Lorenzo Penn, MD
Dr. Marcus Lorenzo Penn, MD, a graduate of Howard Universities medical program shares his experience in the Cancer Center.
He shares his advice for how to avoid and promote health with the goals to avoid cancer. In this interview he discussed myths surrounding cancer. Since this interview he embarked on his passion assisting people with their goal to identify potential lifestyle changes. He started an organization together with his wife that offers programs on Finding Your Well to help others define their "good" as an individual, group or organization. When we understand what our good looks and feels like, we can operate from a place of wholeness and better define our greatness.
Dr. Marcus Lorenzo Penn, MD, CYT brings over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations as a restorative health and wellness, faculty, consultant and coach. He has a strong desire for informing people about restorative practices that support living a healthier life. In this role he helps populations become informed of their own health and empowers them to adopt healthy behaviors that lead to their healing.
Dr. Penn received his M.D. degree from Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C. with postgraduate medical training at Alameda County Medical Center Highland Hospital in Oakland and public health work at University of California, San Francisco. Currently he is faculty at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, CA and serves as the university's Faculty Diversity Coordinator incorporating many restorative techniques and practices. Dr. Penn is very active working collaboratively with his university's College of Nursing, Center for Innovation & Excellence in Learning (CIEL), Office of Academic Affairs and Office of People and Culture.
He is certified in Raja and Hatha yoga traditions receiving his yoga and mindfulness certification training through an Integral Health Fellowship with the Niroga Institute of Oakland, CA.
As co-owner with his wife of Finding Your Well Consulting (www.findingyourwell.com), he is very passionate about providing restorative tools and strategies for self-awareness, personal transformation, stress reduction and lifestyle change for individuals, organizations and communities.
You can learn more about him on his LinkedIn link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcuslpennmd/
He shares his advice for how to avoid and promote health with the goals to avoid cancer. In this interview he discussed myths surrounding cancer. Since this interview he embarked on his passion assisting people with their goal to identify potential lifestyle changes. He started an organization together with his wife that offers programs on Finding Your Well to help others define their "good" as an individual, group or organization. When we understand what our good looks and feels like, we can operate from a place of wholeness and better define our greatness.
Dr. Marcus Lorenzo Penn, MD, CYT brings over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations as a restorative health and wellness, faculty, consultant and coach. He has a strong desire for informing people about restorative practices that support living a healthier life. In this role he helps populations become informed of their own health and empowers them to adopt healthy behaviors that lead to their healing.
Dr. Penn received his M.D. degree from Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C. with postgraduate medical training at Alameda County Medical Center Highland Hospital in Oakland and public health work at University of California, San Francisco. Currently he is faculty at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, CA and serves as the university's Faculty Diversity Coordinator incorporating many restorative techniques and practices. Dr. Penn is very active working collaboratively with his university's College of Nursing, Center for Innovation & Excellence in Learning (CIEL), Office of Academic Affairs and Office of People and Culture.
He is certified in Raja and Hatha yoga traditions receiving his yoga and mindfulness certification training through an Integral Health Fellowship with the Niroga Institute of Oakland, CA.
As co-owner with his wife of Finding Your Well Consulting (www.findingyourwell.com), he is very passionate about providing restorative tools and strategies for self-awareness, personal transformation, stress reduction and lifestyle change for individuals, organizations and communities.
You can learn more about him on his LinkedIn link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcuslpennmd/
Marilyn Murray, American Cancer Society, shares her thoughts and experiences about cancer prevention.
George Y Pearson interviews Marilyn Murray, from the American Cancer Society.
EITBM - January 15, 2023 - Marilyn Murray shares her thoughts and experiences about cancer prevention.
By following the recommendations of the American Cancer Society, you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing cancer. By not smoking, eating a healthy diet, staying at a healthy weight, protecting your skin from the sun, getting regular cancer screenings, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding exposure to known cancer-causing substances and being vaccinated against certain cancer-causing infections, you can help protect your health and live a longer, healthier life.
Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and while there is no surefire way to prevent it, there are certain behaviors that can help reduce your risk. The American Cancer Society (ACS) has compiled a list of recommendations for maintaining a healthy lifestyle that can lower your chances of developing cancer. It's important to consult your doctor or health care professional if you have any concerns about cancer, and to stay up to date with the most recent cancer screening guidelines. The most common types of cancer in the US are breast, lung, prostate, colon, and rectal cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2021, an estimated 1,806,590 new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the United States and approximately . It's also important to note that cancer incidence and mortality rates vary by race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and other factors.
The first and most important tip from the ACS is to avoid smoking or using any form of tobacco. This is because tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide, and is responsible for about one-third of all cancer deaths. If you currently smoke, the ACS urges you to quit as soon as possible.
Another important aspect of cancer prevention is maintaining a healthy diet. The ACS recommends eating a diet rich in plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are high in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that can help protect against cancer.
In addition to eating a healthy diet, the ACS also recommends staying at a healthy weight and getting regular physical activity. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon and breast cancer. By maintaining a healthy weight and getting regular exercise, you can lower your risk of developing these types of cancer.
The ACS also advises protecting your skin from the sun, and avoiding indoor tanning. The sun's ultraviolet rays can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. Wear protective clothing, use sunscreen and stay in shade during peak sun hours.
Another important aspect of cancer prevention is regular cancer screenings. The ACS recommends that you talk to your doctor about which screenings are appropriate for you, and when you should have them. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it's important to stay on top of your cancer screening schedule.
The ACS also advises limiting alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol can increase your risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast, colon, and liver cancer. If you choose to drink, do it in moderation, meaning one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Furthermore, the ACS suggests avoiding exposure to known cancer-causing substances in the environment and on the job. This includes chemicals, pesticides, and other toxins that can be harmful to your health. You should also be vaccinated against certain cancer-causing infections, such as HPV, which can increase your risk of certain types of cancer. Learn more by visiting: American Cancer Society
By following the recommendations of the American Cancer Society, you can take steps to reduce your risk of developing cancer. By not smoking, eating a healthy diet, staying at a healthy weight, protecting your skin from the sun, getting regular cancer screenings, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding exposure to known cancer-causing substances and being vaccinated against certain cancer-causing infections, you can help protect your health and live a longer, healthier life.
Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and while there is no surefire way to prevent it, there are certain behaviors that can help reduce your risk. The American Cancer Society (ACS) has compiled a list of recommendations for maintaining a healthy lifestyle that can lower your chances of developing cancer. It's important to consult your doctor or health care professional if you have any concerns about cancer, and to stay up to date with the most recent cancer screening guidelines. The most common types of cancer in the US are breast, lung, prostate, colon, and rectal cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2021, an estimated 1,806,590 new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the United States and approximately . It's also important to note that cancer incidence and mortality rates vary by race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and other factors.
The first and most important tip from the ACS is to avoid smoking or using any form of tobacco. This is because tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide, and is responsible for about one-third of all cancer deaths. If you currently smoke, the ACS urges you to quit as soon as possible.
Another important aspect of cancer prevention is maintaining a healthy diet. The ACS recommends eating a diet rich in plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are high in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that can help protect against cancer.
In addition to eating a healthy diet, the ACS also recommends staying at a healthy weight and getting regular physical activity. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon and breast cancer. By maintaining a healthy weight and getting regular exercise, you can lower your risk of developing these types of cancer.
The ACS also advises protecting your skin from the sun, and avoiding indoor tanning. The sun's ultraviolet rays can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. Wear protective clothing, use sunscreen and stay in shade during peak sun hours.
Another important aspect of cancer prevention is regular cancer screenings. The ACS recommends that you talk to your doctor about which screenings are appropriate for you, and when you should have them. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it's important to stay on top of your cancer screening schedule.
The ACS also advises limiting alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol can increase your risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast, colon, and liver cancer. If you choose to drink, do it in moderation, meaning one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Furthermore, the ACS suggests avoiding exposure to known cancer-causing substances in the environment and on the job. This includes chemicals, pesticides, and other toxins that can be harmful to your health. You should also be vaccinated against certain cancer-causing infections, such as HPV, which can increase your risk of certain types of cancer. Learn more by visiting: American Cancer Society
Psycho-social stress is a prevalent cause of infant mortality
George Y Pearson interviews Starla Gay and Dr. Vicky Alexander about infant mortality and health during pregnancy of high-risk women.
EITBM | San Francisco, January 23, 2023.
The US has not experienced any improvement or reduction in infant mortality in over 40 years, according to the National Center of Biotechnology Information, a subsidiary of the National Institute for Health. According to OECD, short for The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, which is composed of 38 member countries, including the United States, the US could fare better regarding infant mortality. The OECD aims to promote people's economic development and social well-being worldwide. OECD collects and analyzes data from each member country on various social, economic, and health-related topics.
According to the OECD, thirty-two other countries rank better than the US. Iceland provides a healthy environment for pregnant women. As a result, only 1.1 child per 1000 dies during or before birth. Only five other countries of the 38 countries that consider themselves part of the civilized and well-to-do parts of the world have higher death rates. The US has 5.7 deaths per 1000 pregnancies on average.
Many studies confirm the knowledge these two extraordinary ladies share in this interview. The leading cause of this sad state of affairs is that women, particularly Black American women, don't have the psychological and social network that provides the support a pregnant woman needs, not to trigger psycho-social stress responses that initiate premature births. Starla Gay and Dr. Vicky Alexander have devoted their lives to helping women and children. Isn't it time for society to realize that pregnant women need food, shelter and a lovingly safe environment?
The US has not experienced any improvement or reduction in infant mortality in over 40 years, according to the National Center of Biotechnology Information, a subsidiary of the National Institute for Health. According to OECD, short for The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, which is composed of 38 member countries, including the United States, the US could fare better regarding infant mortality. The OECD aims to promote people's economic development and social well-being worldwide. OECD collects and analyzes data from each member country on various social, economic, and health-related topics.
According to the OECD, thirty-two other countries rank better than the US. Iceland provides a healthy environment for pregnant women. As a result, only 1.1 child per 1000 dies during or before birth. Only five other countries of the 38 countries that consider themselves part of the civilized and well-to-do parts of the world have higher death rates. The US has 5.7 deaths per 1000 pregnancies on average.
Many studies confirm the knowledge these two extraordinary ladies share in this interview. The leading cause of this sad state of affairs is that women, particularly Black American women, don't have the psychological and social network that provides the support a pregnant woman needs, not to trigger psycho-social stress responses that initiate premature births. Starla Gay and Dr. Vicky Alexander have devoted their lives to helping women and children. Isn't it time for society to realize that pregnant women need food, shelter and a lovingly safe environment?
Every 9th person over 65 years old lives with Alzheimer Disease
George Y Pearson interviews Maude and William L. Green about their experience with Alzheimer's Disease, February 2011
About 6 Million Americans are suffering from Alzheimer's and this number will vastly increase.
Staying physical activity, not smoking, learning new things, staying socially and mentally active, maintaining a healthy blood pressure and diet really makes a huge difference in your life quality. The Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention and care suggest that reducing risk factors by these healthy behaviors might prevent or delay up to 40% of dementia cases.
Alzheimers is affecting one in 9 Americans in 2023. As people age they ever more will suffer from this disease. Most people who develop Alzheimer’s dementia are over age 65 old. Medical experts believe that Alzheimer’s disease develops as a result of multiple factors rather than a single cause. While some people are genetically predisposed to developing Alzheimer's, the majority of cases seem to be related to Age, Genetics and Family History.
Age
Age is the greatest of these three risk factors. The percentage of people with Alzheimer’s dementia increases dramatically with age. At age 65 about 5% have developed Alzheimer or at least mild cognitive issues and that number increases to 33.2% by the time people are 85 or older.
Genetics
There are several genes that increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. APOE-e4 has the strongest impact on risk of late-onset Alzheimer’s. APOE provides
the blueprint for a protein that transports cholesterol in the bloodstream. Those who inherit two copy of the e4 form have an eight- to 12-fold risk of developing the disease.
Family History
Recent studies show that not everyone who has a genetic disposition develops Alzheimers. In some countries having the genes does not seem to affect the number of people who develop it. Therefore that even though the risk increases if you have one parent or sibling who suffers from the disease, your behavior might help avoid developing the disease. Access to healthy foods and habits related to physical activity may play a role in avoiding the developing the disease. Staying socially active and learning new skills also seem to be tied to better health. Eating healthy and avoiding cholesterol issues are also linked to better outcomes. So even if nearly everyone in your family doesn't believe in the benefit of healthy behaviors, you can choose to live a healthier lifestyle that will greatly benefit the quality of your life while you age.
You have a lot of influence on how well your live. Take heart and do something to improve your life. Spend time with friends, go dancing, and learn a new language or learn to cook healthy meals you can enjoy with your social circle. Not only will you have more fun, but you will have fun longer.
Alzheimers is affecting one in 9 Americans in 2023. As people age they ever more will suffer from this disease. Most people who develop Alzheimer’s dementia are over age 65 old. Medical experts believe that Alzheimer’s disease develops as a result of multiple factors rather than a single cause. While some people are genetically predisposed to developing Alzheimer's, the majority of cases seem to be related to Age, Genetics and Family History.
Age
Age is the greatest of these three risk factors. The percentage of people with Alzheimer’s dementia increases dramatically with age. At age 65 about 5% have developed Alzheimer or at least mild cognitive issues and that number increases to 33.2% by the time people are 85 or older.
Genetics
There are several genes that increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. APOE-e4 has the strongest impact on risk of late-onset Alzheimer’s. APOE provides
the blueprint for a protein that transports cholesterol in the bloodstream. Those who inherit two copy of the e4 form have an eight- to 12-fold risk of developing the disease.
Family History
Recent studies show that not everyone who has a genetic disposition develops Alzheimers. In some countries having the genes does not seem to affect the number of people who develop it. Therefore that even though the risk increases if you have one parent or sibling who suffers from the disease, your behavior might help avoid developing the disease. Access to healthy foods and habits related to physical activity may play a role in avoiding the developing the disease. Staying socially active and learning new skills also seem to be tied to better health. Eating healthy and avoiding cholesterol issues are also linked to better outcomes. So even if nearly everyone in your family doesn't believe in the benefit of healthy behaviors, you can choose to live a healthier lifestyle that will greatly benefit the quality of your life while you age.
You have a lot of influence on how well your live. Take heart and do something to improve your life. Spend time with friends, go dancing, and learn a new language or learn to cook healthy meals you can enjoy with your social circle. Not only will you have more fun, but you will have fun longer.
Next is an interview with Pernell Harris about the benefits of teaching healthy lifestyle choices to kids early in life. The discussion, filmed in 2005, is just as timely today as it was then. Click