Checking on others – It could save a life!

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Designecologist on Pexels.com

When we go about our busy day by rushing to work, the store, meetings, church, and school, we never get the rest we need. Often, we overstretch the capabilities of our bodies to endure burnout. As such, we should ensure that we are okay as we go about our day and lead our lives. It is also relevant to take care of our physical and mental health. This stance is essential since it ensures that we are always to the best of our shape to handle daily activities. Moreover, as you go about your day, you should consider taking some of your time to check on your family and friends. This caring approach allows you to know how they are doing with life. You may ask; how are you doing? In some cases, you can make a phone call. This initiative can help them to relieve some stress in their life. In other words, simply talking to them about what is stressing them may restore their emotional and psychological well-being.

It is also important to listen to your loved ones or offer a suggestion to help them relieve their stress. Often, you could state recommendations they never thought about during their stressful moment. You may even offer to accompany them on a walk or go grab a coffee together. Thus, your initiative will work toward restoring their perspectives about challenges and desirably handling them. You can also be involved in helping individuals judge good from bad. In most cases, it may be hard for some people to differentiate situations. As such, helping a person judge emotion provides an impetus for self-correction. It also creates an impetus for recognizing harmful emotions so that they can be avoided (Health Shots, 2023). Other than this, the initiative can create leverage for improved understanding of interventions to emotional challenges. Thus, it is relevant to help others deal with issues that affect their health.

Reference

Health Shots. (2023). Your emotions always have something to say! That’s why listen to them very carefully. Healthshots.com. Retrieved from https://www.healthshots.com/mind/emotional-health/emotional-health-why-is-it-important-to-listen-to-your-emotions/

RA: Rheumatoid Arthritis – An Autoimmune Disease

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Reginia Dodson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by Ron Lach on Pexels.com

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an auto immune disease, which, indicates that the immune system is attacking healthy cells. This causes inflammation and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis, predominantly attacks the joints, however, many joints can be attacked simultaneously. RA commonly affects knees, wrist, and hands. RA causes damage to joint tissue, and long, lasting chronic pain, loss of balance, and deformity. RA can also affect other tissues in the body such as eyes, heart, and lungs.

What causes rheumatoid arthritis? The specific causes unknown, but the CDC states that there are factors that can increase the risk. There are a can begin at any age, the onset is highest among adults in their 60s. Gender can also impact the risk of RA, as women or 2 to 3 times higher to report RA than men. Genetics play a role as well, “genes, called HLA (human leukocyte antigen) class II genotypes, can also make your arthritis worse.” (CDC, 2020).

Other factors that increase risk include as can smoking and obesity, “Studies examining the role of obesity also found that the more overweight a person was, the higher his or her risk of developing RA became.” (CDC, 2020). There are factors within our control, and some factors outside of our control but it is important to do what you can to reduce the risk, especially if you have a family history of RA.

Though rheumatoid arthritis cannot be cured, it’s important to discuss options with your doctor if you begin showing signs or symptoms.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020b, July 27). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/rheumatoid-arthritis.html

Myeloma – Why annual doctor visits are important

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Reginia Dodson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

There are so many types of cancer and so many unknown causes for them all as well. Cancer can develop in any part of the body, including bone marrow. The cancer that spreads in bone marrow is called Myeloma. What exactly is Myeloma? “Myeloma, also called multiple myeloma, is a cancer of the plasma cells. Plasma cells are white blood cells that make antibodies that protect us from infection. In myeloma, the cells grow too much, crowding out normal cells in the bone marrow that make red blood cells, platelets, and other white blood cells” (CDC, 2023).

This form of cancer seems remarkably like AIDS in the way these cancer cells attack white blood cells which really weakens the immune system. According to the CDC there are multiple forms of Myeloma, it all depends on location and if the cancer spreads or remains in one area:

  • Multiple Myeloma
    • Develops in bone marrow
  • Solitary plasmacytoma
    • Develops (usually in bone) in one area of the body
  • Extramedullary plasmacytoma
    • Develops in soft tissue, such as throat or lungs

Regardless of which form of myeloma develops, all are very painful and difficult to live with. “Sometimes myeloma does not cause any symptoms. It may be found when a blood or urine test is done for another condition and a higher-than-normal level of protein is found” (CDC, 2023). This is another reason it is vital to get routine check ups, because there is little to suggest that this form of cancer is caused by lifestyle, but doctors can detect it with urine samples x-rays, and blood work.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023b, June 28). Myeloma. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/myeloma/

Inflation Impacts Healthy Eating

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

Inflation impacts how expensive items become over time due to factors such as demand and cost expectations. It is considered a challenge since it creates the platform for the increase in the price of necessities. Thus, inflation is directly correlated with the rise in food prices across the United States. An increase in food prices can make it difficult for some households to eat healthily. Consequently, it is an issue worth examining to determine the influence on the affordability of critical nutrients and the possible remedies.

The inflation issue has a direct impact on healthy eating. This issue affects the food choices that most people make. For example, a family from a low-income socioeconomic background that used to eat healthily will be forced to downgrade their eating habits due to high grocery prices. The most probable solution for such households is to purchase less expensive, less healthy food (Hrisca, 2022). This trajectory negatively affects healthy eating among financially struggling families. Inflation is also responsible for the increase in prices of farm inputs (Hrisca, 2022). As such, some farmers may reduce their productivity. This path in production means that the market will have a shortage of healthy foods. Thus, inflation issue influences individuals’ healthy eating.

Despite the impact inflation has on healthy eating, it is possible to consider approaches that would alleviate the situation. For example, policies can be enacted to allow people to have expansive home gardens. Additionally, leverage in accessing cheaper nutritious foods can be advanced by local, state and federal governments. The above initiatives will help reduce inflation’s possible negative impacts on healthy eating for populations. What actions do you take to afford eating healthy with rising costs?

Reference

Hrisca, P. (2022). The impact of inflation on food. New Food Magazine. Retrieved from https://www.newfoodmagazine.com/article/167236/the-impact-of-inflation-on-food/

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS): A Chronic Skin Disease

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Reginia Dodson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by Angela Roma on Pexels.com

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) chronic skin condition is also referred to as “Acne Inversa” which inflames the skin because bacteria, keratin, and sweat builds up in hair follicles. This results in pus-filled abscesses to various parts of the human anatomy if not treated at the onset. These pus-filled follicles eventually burst causing severe painful lesions to certain parts of the body (Health Central, 2022) HS is a painful yet chronic inflammatory disease of the skin that affects the inherent unpredictability of the health of the infected individual. If it goes untreated with respect to the course and severity of the disease and the response to treatment will pose significant challenges for patients especially African American women.

HS causes pimple-like bumps or boils on and under the skin. This skin disease is chronic (long- lasting) and can be severely painful for prolonged periods of time. HS is not contagious and does not spread from one individual to another. HS starts in the hair follicle in the skin and happens mainly where areas of skin may touch or rub together. HS is not caused by neglecting personal hygiene. In many cases, the cause of this skin disease is actually unknown. African American women are more likely to get HS than men, and it is more common in the African American community than in other communities. HS often appears around puberty and the areas of infection and symptom level can fluctuate based on the severity and affection rate (NIH, 2023)

There’s no lab or blood test that will diagnose the disease. Instead, medical providers conduct a detailed medical history and do a thorough skin check. Before the physical exam, your doctor will want to know about your symptoms. Your physician may inquire about how often these outbreaks happen, how long the lesions last, where they occur, and if anyone in your family has had a similar condition. If your dermatologist suspects you may have another chronic condition along with HS (and many patients do) or you have a high BMI (Body Mass Index), you’ll get your blood tested to check your cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar. The goal of treatment is simple: to stop or reduce the pain and drainage and prevent the nodules from coming back or at least lengthen the time between flares. One biologic drug has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for treating HS and another is sometimes prescribed off-label for this purpose as well. If you believe you may be showing symptoms of HS, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention, so the relief can begin.

References:

Health Central (2022, Jan) Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Everything You Need to Know.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/hidradenitis-suppurativa

NIH (2023) Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) Basics. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-

topics/hidradenitis-suppurativa-hs/basics/symptoms-causes

Protect yourself from ticks & Lyme Disease

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Reginia Dodson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by Erik Karits on Pexels.com

What is Lyme disease? According to the Centers for Disease Control, Lyme Disease is caused by the transmission of the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. The transmission of this disease most often occurs from the bite of the black-legged tick. The disease itself includes symptoms such as fever, headaches, fatigue, difficulty in thinking, and a rash. (CDC). However, it can be treated with the use of antibiotics. Some people that are infected with Lyme Disease often have a delayed infection even after the bite of a tick. The disease itself is normally detected later because people that have been infected symptoms seem more like mild flu symptoms and these delays in identifying Lyme Disease.

There are several ways to protect yourself from getting bitten by ticks. Some preventative measures include wearing clothing to cover your arms and legs, checking your body regularly for ticks, and use repellents containing DEET when going in wooded areas on outdoor activities, protect pets from ticks by giving them monthly doses of flea and tick medications, and check their bodies regularly when they come from outdoor excursions.

The CDC recommends taking the following steps to remove a tick:

· Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.

· Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the mouth parts with tweezers. If you are unable to remove the mouth easily with clean tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.

· After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.

· Dispose of a live tick by submerging it in alcohol, placing it in a sealed bag/container, wrapping it tightly in tape, or flushing it down the toilet.

Outdoor activities can be enjoyed relatively safely with these measures in place for protection. It is summer enjoying the sunshine and getting in some physical activity outside is a great way to maintain optimal health.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022a, January 19). Lyme disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/index.html

Help America’s Children Battle Obesity!

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Reginia Dodson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by Anna Tarazevich on Pexels.com

We all know that obesity is a trending issue in the United States of America. Between junk food, desserts, fast food, and the cost of healthy foods, many things counterproductive to fight obesity. It seems as if the target for obesity is becoming younger and younger. Increased obesity rates are becoming more evident in the children of the United States of America. Obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, sleep apnea, and joint problems can be directly correlated to being obese.

According to the Centers for Disease Control:

  • Childhood obesity affects approximately 19.7% of children and adolescents.
  • The prevalence of obesity among different races among children ages two to 19 years. They are as follows:
    • Hispanic children: 26.2%
    • African-American children: 24.8%
    • Non-Hispanic white children: 16.6%
    • Asian- American children: 9%

The good news is childhood obesity is a preventable condition. Providing families with community resources where they can obtain healthy foods for free or low cost can help in the fight against childhood obesity. Encouraging physical activity and minimizing screen time increases the likelihood to win the battle. Remember if you are modeling healthier lifestyle habits, children can easily adapt to better eating habits and increased physical activity.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, September 27). Obesity, race/ethnicity, and covid-19. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/obesity-and-covid-19.html

Why Many Men Avoid the Doctor

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by RF._.studio on Pexels.com

Some men avoid the doctor. It may be due to work, masculinity, expense or simply underestimating the issue causing symptoms. This issue limits the rate at which men would seek care for their underlying conditions. Thus, outlining the reasons this population segment does not access medical care on time would help solve the challenge.

The current societal paradigms define a man based on his masculinity. This exemplification is part of the reason men do not seek timely medical care. In other words, based on societal norms, they develop stereotypical perspectives that they should demonstrate strength and perseverance (Handcock, 2022). This inclination is responsible for most seeking to stay away from care facilities to avoid being weaklings. In some cases, men avoid healthcare services citing reasons such as being preoccupied with work duties. Additionally, most men are likely to ignore vital health warning signs (Handcock, 2022). In some cases, they could fear diagnosis outcomes, thus, choose to stay away from hospitals.

The issue among men regarding the lack of criticality in seeking timely medical care can be remedied through varied strategic approaches. For example, mitigating harmful masculinity perspectives, such as avoiding care facilities to appear strong, is relevant. Other than this intervention, educating men on the need to value their health as their occupation. This consideration will promote a desire to seek timely medical care. Therefore, the above approaches may cement criticality among men to visit care facilities immediately when needed.

Reference

Handcock, M. (2022). ‘It’ll get better on its own’: Men and their resistance to seeing a doctor. The Health Policy Partnership. Retrieved from https://www.healthpolicypartnership.com/itll-get-better-on-its-own-men-and-their-resistance-to-seeing-a-doctor/#:~:text=But%20why%20are%20many%20men,seek%20medical%20attention%20than%20women.

What cinnamon can do for your health!

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Ashley Peoples | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Mareefe on Pexels.com

Do you like the taste of cinnamon? Some people like the taste of cinnamon in dessert dishes such as peach cobbler and apple pie. Some people even like the taste of cinnamon in their coffee. If you enjoy cinnamon, there is some good news about the health benefits of cinnamon.

According to Healthline, cinnamon is high in antioxidants and can fight inflammation and reduce blood sugar levels. Some people with arthritis and lupus have found cinnamon to help reduce inflammation. Cinnamon is related to lowering the development of heart disease. If a person takes ¾ teaspoons of cinnamon daily, triglycerides decrease. Increased triglycerides are a risk for heart disease. (Leech, 2022). Another benefit of cinnamon is that it may increase sensitivity to insulin. Additionally, cinnamon can also decrease blood sugar levels. Healthline states that cinnamon could imitate the benefits of insulin to better the access to sugar in cells. Other reports state cinnamon is being studied as possibly protecting against cancer.
Cinnamon can help with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s as well. In addition to the health potential of cinnamon, some studies suggest it helps with hair growth (check out cinnamon/honey hair mask).

So the next time you enjoy that spiced latte or green tea, maybe give yourself a pinch of extra cinnamon to give your body a boost.

References

Leech, J. (2022a, October 13). 10 evidence-based health benefits of cinnamon. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-cinnamon

Seward, M. (2018, August 8). Amazing benefits of cinnamon for hair. Healthy Focus. https://healthyfocus.org/cinnamon-for-hair/

How Fruit Helps Digestive Health

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Hafidz Alifuddin on Pexels.com

Digestion involves a complex process, which may not work as required due to numerous factors leading to constipation. Though not a popular topic, constipation can lead to serious medical issues. According to WebMD, chronic Constipation can lead to rectal prolapse, anal fissures, hemorrhoids, pain and vomiting.

For people who experience constipation, there is a high likelihood that they do not eat enough fruits. According to Sweeney (2023), lacking the recommended consumption of the desired number of fruits per day for both men and women would result in feeling backed up. The lack of proper hydration is also responsible for the condition. In rare cases, an underlying medical condition may cause difficulty passing hard stool. It is important to speak to your physician if this condition persists.

The feeling of being backed up can be self-remedied at home using simple solutions. For example, women should have 21 to 25 grams of fiber per day, and their male counterparts 30 to 38 grams (Sweeney, 2023). A focus should also be placed on increasing water intake through fruits such as raspberries, which are one of the best fruits for constipation. In cases whereby fruits are rarely available, fiber supplements alongside staying hydrated can help loosen the hard stool. There is also a need to switch your posture by squatting. This strategy is believed to make it easier to relieve the self of the backed-up feeling (Goldsztajn, 2022). Therefore, trying the above remedies will help improve the duration it takes to have a bowel movement without complications.

Hopefully with enough hydration and eating some vegetables, you will have things moving steady!

References

Goldsztajn, I. (2022). How to make yourself poop when you’re feeling backed up, according to experts. Shape. Retrieved from https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/how-to-make-yourself-poop

Sweeney, E. (2023). Backed up? This is the best fruit to eat to help you poop, according to a GI doc. Yahoo!Life. Retrieved from https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/backed-best-fruit-eat-help-223000525.html?guccounter=1

WebMD. (n.d.). Chronic constipation: How it affects your body. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/chronic-constipation-affects-body