Why Early Screening for Autism Is Essential in Underserved Communities

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by Tiana Lopez | UAB Community Health and Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com

Every parent wants the best for their child. But for many families in Alabama, getting an autism diagnosis can be harder than it should be. Research shows that Black children are often diagnosed with autism two to three years later than white children, despite showing symptoms at the same age (Mandell et al., 2009). These delays result in missed opportunities for early intervention. This support can drastically improve a child’s ability to communicate, learn, and thrive.

In Alabama, especially in rural or underserved communities, parents face multiple barriers to getting a timely diagnosis. Some are unfamiliar with early autism signs such as poor eye contact, delayed speech, repetitive behaviors, or lack of social interest (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023). Others may be discouraged from seeking help, told to “wait and see,” or lack access to a qualified specialist. Even when parents do recognize the signs, they often encounter long waitlists, high costs, or too few autism-focused providers in their area. These obstacles can feel overwhelming (Constantino et al., 2020). One researcher noted, “Autism spectrum disorder remains underdiagnosed in minority populations, despite evidence of comparable symptom presentation” (Constantino et al., 2020, p. 3). This highlights that the problem is not rooted in the children themselves but in systemic inequities.

Early Intervention Makes a Difference
The earlier autism is identified, the earlier a child can begin receiving services that build critical skills. Studies confirm that early intervention, ideally before the age of three, leads to improved language, social, and behavioral outcomes (Zwaigenbaum et al., 2015). That is why early screening is essential, particularly for families in underserved communities where systemic barriers are more common.

Practical Steps for Families
If you are a parent or caregiver of a young child in Alabama, here are two steps you can take right now:

  • Ask your child’s pediatrician about developmental and autism screening. These can be done during regular checkups starting at 18 months.
  • Reach out to Alabama’s Early Intervention System. This program offers free evaluations and services for children under three. A doctor’s referral is not required to get started (Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, 2023).

Getting a diagnosis should not depend on race/ethnicity, income, or ZIP code. With awareness, persistence, and support, families can overcome barriers and get their children the help they deserve. Equity in healthcare begins with timely diagnosis and access to resources for every child. To advocate for more autism resources in your community, you can join and support local and national organizations like the Autism Society and the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), attend and volunteer at community events, and share your story on social media. If you like, please consider sharing your experience with the Wilkinson Wellness Lab on Facebook.

References
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. (2023). Early Intervention Program. https://rehab.alabama.gov/individuals-and-families/early-intervention

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Data and statistics on autism spectrum disorder. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html

Constantino, J. N., Abbacchi, A. M., Saulnier, C., Klaiman, C., Mandell, D. S., Zhang, Y., … & Molholm, S. (2020). Timing of the diagnosis of autism in African American children. Pediatrics, 146(3), e20193629. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2019-3629

Mandell, D. S., Wiggins, L. D., Carpenter, L. A., Daniels, J., DiGuiseppi, C., Durkin, M. S., … & Kirby, R. S. (2009). Racial/ethnic disparities in the identification of children with autism spectrum disorders. American Journal of Public Health, 99(3), 493–498. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2007.131243

Zwaigenbaum, L., Bauman, M. L., Choueiri, R., Kasari, C., Carter, A., Granpeesheh, D., … & Pierce, K. (2015). Early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder under 3 years of age: Recommendations for practice and research. Pediatrics, 136(Supplement_1), S60–S81. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2014-3667E

Toastmasters: Bridging the Digital Divide with Communication

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by Evan Hudson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by Henri Mathieu-Saint-Laurent on Pexels.com

How has campus life been since the pandemic? Are you happy to see your peers again and enjoy in-person activities, or have you struggled to reconnect? You’re not alone – many students are dealing with increased anxiety, low self-esteem, and lack of motivation to engage socially and academically (Acosta-Gonzaga, 2023; Hu et al., 2022). COVID-19 pushed digital communication forward, but many now find in-person interactions more difficult. How can we get back to the basics and talk to each other again?

Research in second language acquisition shows that language “output” (speaking, writing, typing) can boost confidence (Muhajir & Sri Redjeki, 2018). Public speaking, often ranked as a top fear, is one way to promote this. You may not be learning a second language, but what if you could join a supportive community to practice and improve your speaking skills?

A Comfortable Place to Practice Speaking Skills
Toastmasters International is a global public speaking club, and its University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) chapter is growing fast. The club helps you build confidence in communication through a stress-free environment. We work on everything from body language to eye contact, with personalized learning “Pathways” that focus on your needs. We often tell our members that “half of life if how you talk to people,” and we know that if you can speak to an audience, you can speak to an individual. Public speaking can help you become more comfortable with meetings, job interviews, and many other in person or digital interactions.

“Toastmasters helped me prepare for presentations in my graduate program. Those skills carried over into my professional career, and I present almost every week” – Former Graduate Student

Toastmasters at UAB can allow for one to grow professionally and connect with like-minded individuals from around the world. Plus, the confidence one can build in Toastmasters can carry over to conversations with friends, peers, and family. Visitors are welcome to attend meetings for free. We meet at UAB’s Bevill Biomedical Research Building (Room 170) on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 5:30 PM, and hold a hybrid meeting on the 3rd Monday of each month. To learn more about Toastmasters at UAB, please visit uab.toastmastersclubs.org. I hope to see you there!

References
Acosta-Gonzaga, E. (2023). The effects of self-esteem and academic engagement on university students’ performance. Behavioral Sciences, 13(4), 348. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13040348

Hu, K., Godfrey, K., Ren, Q., Wang, S., Yang, X., & Li, Q. (2022). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on college students in USA: Two years later. Psychiatry Research, 315, 114685. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114685

Ibrahim, I. W., & Shahabani, N. S. (2020). THE USE OF PUBLIC SPEAKING TO PROMOTE CONFIDENCE IN LEARNING ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE. European Journal of English Language Teaching, 6(1).

Muhajir, R., & Sri Redjeki, I. (2018). Public speaking activities to improve students’ speaking skills. ENGLISH JOURNAL, 12(1), 39. https://doi.org/10.32832/english.v12i1.3769 Wang, Y., & Liu, J. (2024). The impact of COVID-19 on international students: A qualitative synthesis. British Journal of Educational Studies, 72(6), 805–829. https://doi.org/10.1080/00071005.2024.2374077

The Stigma Around Therapy: Breaking the Silence

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By Jaslyn Bush | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by Antoni Shkraba Studio on Pexels.com

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of mental health issues and the importance of seeking therapy. However, despite progress in raising awareness, a significant stigma still surrounds mental health therapy, preventing many individuals from seeking the help they need.

The stigma around therapy often stems from societal misconceptions and stereotypes. Many people still believe that seeking mental health therapy is a sign of weakness or that it is only for those with severe mental illnesses (Corrigan, 2004). This perception is far from the truth. Therapy can be a valuable tool for anyone facing life’s challenges, whether they are dealing with stress, relationship issues, or personal growth.

The Impact of Stigma
Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help, leading to untreated mental health issues that can worsen over time (Vogel, Wade, & Haake, 2006). Additionally, the fear of being judged or misunderstood can cause individuals to suffer in silence, further exacerbating their struggles. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), there are 3 kinds of stigma:

Public Stigma: This stigma can be described as negative and inaccurate attitudes about a mental illness from the public (Singhal, 2024). There is a fear that one may experience discrimination i employment, housing, health care, etc. due to one being diagnosed with a mental illness.

Self-Stigma: This includes negative attitudes, including internalized shame of their condition. Self-stigma can lead to lower self-esteem issues and reduce self-confidence.

Structural Stigma: Involves policies of government and private organizations that intentionally or unintentionally limit opportunities for people for people with mental illness (Singhal, 2024). If the federal government or state and local municipalities reduce funding for mental health services and programs, then individuals in need of care will not have less opportunity to receive the care and support they need.

Breaking the Silence
To combat the stigma around therapy, professionals in health and human services must promote open and honest conversations about mental health. Education is key; providing accurate information about the benefits of therapy and debunking common myths, in order to change societal attitudes (Corrigan & Watson, 2002). Additionally, sharing personal stories and experiences can help normalize therapy and encourage others to seek help.

The stigma around therapy is a significant barrier to mental health care. By understanding its roots, recognizing its impact, and taking steps to promote open conversations, we can work towards a society where seeking therapy is thought of as a sign of strength and self-care. If you or someone you know has experienced challenges with mental and emotional health, consider sharing your thoughts and perspectives in the comments below and engage with us on Facebook at the Wilkinson Wellness Lab.

References

Corrigan, P. W. (2004). How stigma interferes with mental health care. American Psychologist, 59(7), 614-625. 

Corrigan, P. W., & Watson, A. C. (2002). Understanding the impact of stigma on people with mental illness. World Psychiatry, 1(1), 16-20. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1489832/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1489832/)

Vogel, D. L., Wade, N. G., & Haake, S. (2006). Measuring the self-stigma associated with seeking psychological help. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 53(3), 325-337. [

Kalkbrenner, M. T., & Esparza, S. (2022). Barriers to seeking counseling among a national sample of U.S. physicians: The revised fit, stigma, and value scale. The Professional Counselor, 15(2), 123-137.

Melnyk, B. M., Kelly, S. A., & Jacobson, D. (2020). Reducing stigma and promoting mental health in healthcare professionals: An integrative review. Journal of Nursing Management, 28(5), 1020-1030.

Singhal, N. (2024, March). Stigma, Prejudice and Discrimination Against People with Mental Illness. American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination

Balancing Screen Time for Healthier Family Connections

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by Tiana Lopez | UAB Community Health and Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com

In many homes across the Southeast, families may spend evenings under the same roof yet feel worlds apart, each absorbed in their own screens. Phones, tablets, and televisions can provide entertainment and even educational opportunities, but when they begin to replace conversations and shared activities, the impact on parent–child relationships can be concerning.

Studies show that when parents spend too much time on their phones during family activities, they become less emotionally responsive to their children. This lack of responsiveness can leave children feeling overlooked or unimportant and over time may weaken trust and closeness (American Psychological Association, 2025). A recent review also found a two-way relationship between screen use and children’s well-being. Excessive screen time can contribute to emotional and behavioral difficulties, while children who already struggle emotionally are more likely to use screens as a way to cope (Ebert, 2025).

The Southeast is known for its close-knit communities and strong family values, but heavy screen use has the potential to interfere with these traditions of connection. When children feel like devices are competing with them for their parents’ attention, it affects their sense of security and belonging. These feelings can spill into other areas of life, influencing school motivation, friendships, and emotional health.

Fortunately, technology does not need to divide families. The key is balance. Parents can model healthy habits by creating intentional device-free times. Eating meals together without screens or planning one evening each week for family activities such as games, outdoor walks, or simple conversation can reinforce that family time matters. These small steps help children feel valued and show that relationships are a priority.

Parents sometimes worry that children will resist screen limits or that routines will be disrupted. However, research shows that when changes are explained with warmth and consistency, children adapt more quickly than expected. Framing these new routines as fun opportunities for connection rather than as restrictions makes children more willing to participate (Nagata et al., 2024).

Screens are a permanent part of modern life, but they do not have to dominate relationships. By setting aside moments for genuine connection, parents can strengthen bonds, improve communication, and reassure their children that they are more important than any device.

As a parent, how do you ensuring engaging with your children and managing your screen time? As a child, how do you unplug and ensure that you are not spending too much time on screen? Please share your comments below and engage with the article at the Wilkinson Wellness Lab on Facebook.

References:

Screen time and emotional problems in kids: A vicious circle? (2025, June 9). https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2025/06/screen-time-problems-children?utm_source=

Morgan Ebert, Managing Editor. (2025, June 13). Study links screen time to socioemotional problems in children, with bidirectional effects. Contemporary Pediatrics.
https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/view/study-links-screen-time-to-socioemotional-problems-in-children-with-bidirectional-effects?utm_source=

Nagata, J. M., Paul, A., Yen, F., Smith-Russack, Z., Shao, I. Y., Al-Shoaibi, A. a. A., Ganson, K. T., Testa, A., Kiss, O., He, J., & Baker, F. C. (2024). Associations between media parenting practices and early adolescent screen use. Pediatric Research. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41390-024-03243-y

Sports Safety & Injury Prevention: Stretching, Hydration, and Concussion Awareness for Student Athletes

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Sports play a huge role in the lives of children and teens. Beyond the physical benefits of staying active, athletics teach teamwork, discipline, and confidence. But while sports are rewarding, they also come with risks. Each year in the United States, more than 3.5 million children under age 14 receive medical treatment for sports-related injuries (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022). Common injuries include sprains, strains, fractures, and concussions. Overuse injuries from repetitive training are also on the rise, particularly in young athletes who specialize in one sport too early (National Athletic Trainers’ Association [NATA], 2021).

The good news is that many of these injuries are preventable. By focusing on proper preparation—through stretching, hydration, and awareness of concussion symptoms—parents, coaches, and athletes can create a safer sports environment and help young players perform at their best.

Stretching: Preparing the Body to Perform

Warming up before activity and cooling down afterward can reduce the risk of sprains, strains, and muscle injuries. Dynamic stretches like high knees, jumping jacks, or arm circles prepare muscles for movement, while static stretches after practice help improve flexibility and recovery (National Athletic Trainers’ Association [NATA], 2021).

Tip: Student athletes should dedicate at least 10 minutes to warm-up and cool-down routines at every practice and game.

Hydration: Fueling Energy and Recovery

Dehydration affects performance and increases the risk of heat illness, especially during hot or intense practices. Even mild dehydration can impact focus, coordination, and endurance. Athletes should drink water before, during, and after physical activity. Sports drinks may be helpful during long or high-intensity workouts, but water is the best choice for most young athletes (CDC, 2023a).

Quick Check: Light-colored urine typically means proper hydration, while darker urine suggests the need for more fluids.

Concussion Awareness: Protecting the Brain

Concussions are one of the most serious sports-related injuries. They can occur in football, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, and many other activities. Warning signs include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or sensitivity to light and noise.

If a concussion is suspected, the athlete should be removed from play immediately and evaluated by a healthcare professional. Returning too soon raises the risk of prolonged symptoms or additional injury (CDC, 2023b).

Golden Rule: When in doubt, sit them out.

Encouraging Safe Play

  • Parents, coaches, and athletes all share responsibility for safety. A few practical steps can help reduce risks:
  • Ensure athletes use the right protective gear for their sport.
  • Encourage open communication—athletes should feel comfortable reporting pain or symptoms.
  • Promote rest days to avoid overuse injuries.
  • Provide education on concussion awareness and safe hydration practices.

The Bottom Line

Sports are one of the best ways for young people to stay healthy, but safety must come first. By focusing on proper stretching, hydration, and concussion awareness, families and coaches can help student athletes stay safe, recover faster, and enjoy the game for years to come.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Sports injury prevention: Keeping children safe on the field. https://www.cdc.gov/safechild/sports_injuries/index.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023a). Water and hydration. https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/nutrition/index.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023b). Heads up: Concussion in youth sports. https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/index.html

National Athletic Trainers’ Association. (2021). Prevention strategies for sports injuries. https://www.nata.org

Screen-Free Family Time Ideas: Reducing Digital Overload During Busy Months

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Between school events, sports practices, and holiday preparations, families often find themselves stretched thin during the fall and winter months. With so much going on, it’s easy to default to screens for relaxation or distraction. But too much screen time can lead to sleep problems, less physical activity, and more stress for kids and adults alike (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023a). Creating intentional, screen-free family time not only reduces digital overload but also helps families reconnect during life’s busiest seasons.

Why Screen-Free Time Matters

Teens spend over 7 hours daily on entertainment-related screens, while younger kids also exceed recommended limits (American Academy of Pediatrics [AAP], 2019). Excessive screen use is linked to reduced face-to-face connection, eye strain, and disrupted sleep (CDC, 2023b). Setting aside time to unplug—even for a night or two each week—creates space for laughter, conversation, and stronger family bonds.

Screen-Free Ideas for the Busy Months

🍂 Fall Fun

  • Pumpkin Carving or Decorating: A seasonal tradition that sparks creativity and brings everyone together.
  • Family Hikes: Cooler weather makes it perfect for exploring local trails and enjoying fall colors.
  • Game Day Traditions: Instead of watching football, toss a ball around outside or organize a family-friendly backyard game.

❄️ Winter Warmth

  • Holiday Crafts: Make homemade ornaments, cards, or decorations.
  • Cooking Nights: Try baking cookies together or let kids plan a family dinner menu.
  • Cozy Reading Hour: Everyone grabs a blanket and a book. Share your favorite passages by the fireplace or at the kitchen table.

🌟 Year-Round Favorites

  • Board or Card Game Night: Rotate who picks the game to keep it fun.
  • DIY Projects: Build a birdhouse, paint, or start a family scrapbook.
  • Mindfulness Together: Family yoga, stretching, or guided relaxation to unwind after hectic days.
  • Community Volunteering: Pack food boxes, visit a senior center, or help a local shelter—giving back reduces stress and builds empathy.

Tips for Making It Stick

  • Pick a Night: Choose one evening a week as “family unplugged time.”
  • Let Kids Lead: Involve children in choosing the activity to keep them engaged.
  • Be Consistent: Regular practice helps screen-free time become part of family culture.
  • Model the Change: Parents setting aside phones sends the strongest message.

The Bottom Line

Busy seasons can leave families feeling disconnected, but stepping away from screens—especially in the fall and winter—creates opportunities for joy and connection. Whether it’s carving pumpkins, baking cookies, or bundling up for a family walk, the best memories often happen when screens are set aside.

Call to Action: This week, schedule one fall or winter activity to enjoy as a family without screens—you may just discover a new tradition.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019). Media and young minds. Pediatrics, 138(5), e20162591. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2016-2591

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023a). Screen time vs. lean time. https://www.cdc.gov/screen-time

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023b). Sleep and screen use. https://www.cdc.gov/sleep

Stay Strong This Cold & Flu Season: Simple Ways to Boost Your Family’s Immunity

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Cold and flu season is here, and in places like Birmingham that means busy classrooms, packed workplaces, and plenty of chances for germs to spread. Every year in the U.S., millions of people come down with the flu, hundreds of thousands end up in the hospital, and sadly, thousands lose their lives to flu-related complications (CDC, 2023b). Kids, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions are at the greatest risk but even healthy families can find themselves knocked out by lingering colds or the flu. The good news? You don’t need pricey supplements or complicated routines to help protect your family. Simple, consistent daily habits can strengthen the immune system and give everyone a better chance at staying healthy all season long.

Fuel Your Body with the Right Foods

Your immune system runs best when it’s well-nourished. Think of food as fuel:

  • Vitamin C from citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers helps your body fight infections.
  • Vitamin D—especially important in the winter—comes from fortified foods or supplements if you don’t get much sun.
  • Protein and zinc (in foods like lean meats, beans, and seeds) support your body in making strong immune cells.
  • Even adding one extra serving of fruits or veggies to each meal can boost immunity over time (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023a).

Move Your Body, Fight the Bugs

Exercise doesn’t just make you stronger—it also keeps your immune system alert. Walking the dog, playing outside with the kids, or dancing around the living room all count. The CDC suggests kids get 60 minutes a day and adults aim for 150 minutes a week of activity (CDC, 2022). Think of it as “moving medicine.”

  • Keep the Germs Away
  • We all know the basics, but they really work:
  • Wash hands often (20 seconds with soap and water).
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow.
  • Wipe down high-touch surfaces like phones, doorknobs, and keyboards.
  • Stay home when you’re sick to protect others.

These everyday habits are among the strongest defenses we have against colds and the flu (CDC, 2023b).

Local Help Right Here in Birmingham

Want extra protection? Get your flu shot. It’s recommended for everyone 6 months and older (CDC, 2023b). Birmingham has plenty of options:

  • Jefferson County Department of Health (JCDH) offers free flu shots at drive-thru clinics and health centers.
  • UAB Medicine and local pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Publix) also provide flu shots—often with no appointment needed.
  • Children’s of Alabama encourages families to vaccinate kids early in the season for best protection.

You don’t have to dread cold and flu season. By eating well, staying active, practicing good hygiene, and getting vaccinated, you can give your family the best defense. Birmingham has the resources—you just have to take advantage of them.

Call to Action: This week, set one small goal: add an extra fruit or veggie to your plate, go for a family walk, or schedule your flu shot. Your immune system will thank you.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Benefits of physical activity. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/benefits

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023b). Flu prevention: Good health habits. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/actions-prevent-flu.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023a). Healthy eating for a healthy weight. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating

Children’s of Alabama. (2024). Flu season resources. https://www.childrensal.org

Jefferson County Department of Health. (n.d.). Free flu shots for Jefferson County residents. https://www.jcdh.org

UAB Medicine. (2024). Flu vaccine at UAB Medicine. https://www.uabmedicine.org

Healthy Habits at Home: Building Routines That Stick

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Families do best when there’s structure and the good news is, healthy routines don’t have to be complicated to make a real difference. Here in Alabama, where nearly 37% of adults are living with obesity, one of the highest rates in the country, simple changes at home, like cooking together or adding in more active family time, can go a long way in supporting better health for everyone (CDC, 2023).

When families eat together, they’re more likely to consume fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and less likely to rely on fast food or processed meals (Healthy People 2030, 2020). Cooking together also teaches kids practical skills and encourages them to try new foods. Even swapping sugary drinks for water or preparing one homemade meal a few nights a week can make a difference.

Exercise doesn’t have to mean structured workouts. Walking at a local park, biking together, or turning chores into movement, like dancing while cleaning, keeps the whole family active. The CDC recommends children get at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, and adults aim for 150 minutes each week (CDC, 2022). Family-based activity is a fun way to meet those goals while also reducing stress and building connections.

Too much screen time has been linked to increased sedentary behavior and sleep problems in youth (CDC, 2023). By setting limits, families can open up more opportunities for outdoor play, reading, or games that spark creativity. Even 30 minutes of unplugged family time a day can help replace screens with healthier habits.

Healthy change starts small. This week, encourage your family to set one goal, like cooking dinner together twice or taking a 15-minute walk after school. Little steps add up, and before long, they can become lasting routines that help families in Birmingham and beyond thrive.

Call-to-Action: Pick one simple habit today. Whether it’s a new recipe, an evening walk, or a screen-free night, your family’s journey to better health starts at home, with one step at a time.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Physical activity basics. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Overweight and obesity data. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data

Healthy People 2030. (2020). Nutrition and healthy eating objectives. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Prostate Cancer: Protecting Men’s Health Through Early Detection

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Prostate cancer is a major health concern for men, especially as they get older. The good news is that it’s very treatable when caught early, but many men put off screenings because of fear, stigma, or simply not knowing enough about them. By breaking down the stigma and encouraging regular check-ups, we can help more men catch prostate cancer early and save lives.

Magnitude of the Problem
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States, with more than 288,000 new cases and over 34,000 deaths reported annually (CDC, 2023). Black men face an even greater burden, experiencing higher incidence rates and nearly double the mortality rate compared to white men (Healthy People 2030, n.d.). While the exact cause of prostate cancer remains unknown, risk factors include age (50+), family history, and lifestyle behaviors. Without early detection, prostate cancer can progress silently, leading to advanced disease and fewer treatment options.

Solutions
Addressing prostate cancer requires a combination of medical, community, and policy strategies:

  • Screening and Early Detection: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams can detect cancer before symptoms appear. Shared decision-making between men and healthcare providers is essential.
  • Targeted Education: Culturally tailored education for high-risk groups, especially Black men, can help overcome mistrust and improve screening rates.
  • Policy Initiatives: Expanding access to preventive care under national goals such as Healthy People 2030 can reduce disparities in cancer outcomes (Healthy People 2030, n.d.).
  • Community-Based Programs: Faith-based and local organizations can host men’s health events to promote awareness and provide free or low-cost screenings.

What Men and Families Can Do

  • Know Your Risk: Men over 50—or over 45 for those at higher risk—should discuss screening options with their doctor.
  • Adopt Healthy Habits: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco may lower overall cancer risk.
  • Encourage Conversations: Families and partners can help men feel more comfortable discussing health concerns.
  • Use Trusted Resources: Organizations like the CDC and American Cancer Society provide evidence-based guidance on prostate cancer prevention and care.

Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a leading threat to men’s health, but it doesn’t have to be. With early detection, informed choices, and strong community support, men can take proactive steps to protect their health and lives.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). What is prostate cancer? https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Cancer prevention and screening. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Coping with Loss: Exploring Normal, Anticipatory, and Complicated Grief

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By Jaslyn Bush | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program Intern

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

Death is an inevitable part of life. Grieving a loved one can be challenging, taking years to recover from the loss. In my experience, the grieving process for a loved one is never truly over because I will always remember that person. “Grief most often gets less intense over time, but the sense of loss can last for decades. Certain events, mementos or memories can bring back strong emotions, that usually last for a short time” (National Cancer Institute [NCI], 2013). Grief feels like the process of accepting that the person is no longer alive. There are three types of grief: anticipatory grief, normal grief, and complicated grief (National Cancer Institute, 2013).

According to Stanford Parkinson’s Community Outreach, anticipatory grief is the act of grieving somebody who is still alive but, expected to pass away from sickness or other health complications (Stanford Parkinson’s Community Outreach, n.d.). From my experience with grief, I believe anticipatory grief is the hardest type of grief to go through. Before both of my grandmothers passed away due to sickness, I couldn’t get over the fact that one day, they wouldn’t be here anymore. Every time I spent time with either of them, I felt this lingering sadness that one day I would never get to see or talk to them again.

The NCI explains that normal grief occurs when an individual has acknowledged and accepted their loss and continues with their life, even though it may be difficult. Some common themes of normal grief include periods of sadness, disbelief, emotional numbness, anxiety, and distress. This can also lead to loss of sleep, hallucinations of the deceased, and loss of appetite (National Cancer Institute, 2013).

Complicated grief occurs when intense sadness/grief lasts longer than expected. According to the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT), complicated grief affects 2-3% of the population worldwide. Signs of complicated grief include constant thoughts about the deceased, avoiding reminders of the deceased, along with keeping reminders of deceased such as their pictures or belongings (ABCT, 2021). Complicated grief usually lasts 6 months or longer, depending on if the individual has social, cultural, or religious connections to the deceased (ABCT, 2021).

When experiencing one or more types of grief, I have adapted some suggestions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding what one can do who is experiencing grief:

  • Seek comfort and lean on the support of others in your network.
  • Create a positive and purposeful routine.
  • Honor your loved ones who have passed.
  • If necessary, get help from a professional.
  • If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

Have you experienced grief before? What are some of the emotions that you felt? What helped you to overcome one or more types of grief? Please feel free to share in the comments section or post an encouraging message at the Wilkinson Wellness Lab on Facebook.

References

Anticipatory Grief. (n.d.). Stanford Parkinson’s Community Outreach. https://med.stanford.edu/parkinsons/caregiver-corner/caregiving-topics/anticipatory-grief.html

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. (2023, May 26). Grief. https://www.cdc.gov/howrightnow/emotion/grief/index.html.

Complicated Grief | Fact Sheet. (2021, March 4). ABCT – Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies. https://www.abct.org/fact-sheets/complicated-grief/

National Cancer Institute. (2013, March 6). Grief, Bereavement, and Coping With Loss. National Cancer Institute; cancer.gov. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/advanced-cancer/caregivers/planning/bereavement-pdq