Category: Promotion

Former NBA star & champion Dwayne Wade raises awareness about Kidney Cancer

by Larrell L. Wilkinson, PHAME-US.com

Dwyane Wade, the celebrated NBA Hall of Famer, recently opened up about his battle with kidney cancer on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. Wade shared that his diagnosis came after he turned 40 and decided to undergo a comprehensive health check-up. With a family history of cancer—his father and grandfather both battled prostate cancer—he wanted to be proactive about his health. In December 2023, Wade underwent a procedure to remove part of his kidney, which was later confirmed to be cancerous.

On the talk show known for its humor and funny comedic bits, Wade shared the importance of knowing your body and getting “checked out” by a doctor. During an emotional appearance on the talk show Jenna & Friends, Mr. Wade shared more regarding his health, challenges, and the symptoms that led him to speak to his doctor who recommended additional tests. He also gave credit to his wife, actress Gabrielle Union, and his children for their support during his recovery.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists the following symptoms for kidney cancer, including:

  • Blood in the urine.
  • A lump or swelling in the kidney area or abdomen.
  • Lower back pain or pain in the side that doesn’t go away.
  • Feeling tired often.
  • Fever that keeps coming back.
  • Not feeling like eating.
  • Losing weight for no reason that you know of.
  • Something blocking your bowels.
  • A general feeling of poor health.

In 2024, the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that 14,390 people (9,450 men and 4,940 women) died from kidney cancer disease in 2024 and approximately 81,610 new cases of kidney cancer were diagnosed (American Cancer Society, n.d.). The CDC recommends several steps to lower the risk of kidney and renal pelvis cancers, including:

  • Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a risk factor, so staying active and eating a balanced diet can help.
  • Avoid smoking: Smoking increases the risk of kidney cancer, so quitting is highly beneficial.
  • Be cautious with certain chemicals: Especially trichloroethylene, which is used in some industrial jobs. Proper safety measures are essential if you’re exposed to it.

To learn more about Dwayne Wade and hear more about his life, perspectives on sports, fashion, music, and business, we can tune into his channel on YouTube, the WY Network. To learn more about kidney cancer, please visit the CDC web presence for kidney cancer and the American Cancer Society (ACS). To raise awareness and encourage others regarding their health journeys, please consider engaging with US on Facebook.

References
American Cancer Society. (n.d.). About Kidney Cancer. http://Www.cancer.org. Retrieved March 11, 2025, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/kidney-cancer/about.html
CDC. (2024, April 25). Kidney Cancer Basics. Kidney Cancer. https://www.cdc.gov/kidney-cancer/about/index.html

Impact of Free Healthcare at 2024 Paris Olympics & Healthcare Accessibility

By Larrell L. Wilkinson, PHAME-US.com

The 2024 Paris Olympic Games have introduced a significant benefit for athletes: free healthcare services within the Olympic Village. This initiative is significant, providing comprehensive medical care to athletes from around the world. The healthcare is an additional benefit, ensuring the athletes can perform at their best without worrying about healthcare costs.

The Olympic Village offers a wide range of medical services, including cardiology, orthopedics, physiotherapy, psychology, podiatry, and sports medicine. This extensive healthcare provision is designed to cater to the unique needs of elite athletes, who often require specialized medical attention due to the physical demands of their sports.

Ariana Ramsey, a U.S. women’s rugby player, has spotlighted her positive experiences with the free healthcare services in the Olympic Village, sharing her journey on social media. Her posts have gone viral, emphasizing the benefits she has received utilizing the healthcare system in France. Ariana’s testimonies offer followers greater understanding of the importance of access to quality health care.

Many people in the United States don’t get the health care services they need. A report from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that about 1 in 10 people in the United States don’t have health insurance (Berchick, Barnett, & Hood, 2018). Strategies to increase insurance coverage rates are critical for making sure more people get important health care services, like preventive care and treatment for chronic illnesses. Voting for policies that expand healthcare coverage, utilizing current healthcare resources consistently, and practicing health promoting behaviors can lead to better health and well-being for individuals and our communities.

Using your voice and your vote can make a difference. In light of ongoing global discussions about healthcare accessibility and affordability, healthcare was is being offered at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France. Importantly, the initiative is supporting physical and mental health, supporting athletes ability to manage the stresses of competition. When the Olympic Games come to Los Angeles, CA in 2028, let’s hope we too will offer free health care to all Olympic Athletes. In fact, let’s do more than hope! Let’s lift our voices and support the Olympic athletes coming to our country and our many neighbors who are here and can benefit from expanded access to health care.

Strategies like providing team-based care and reducing copays can help people get recommended preventive care services. Still, there are other ideas on how to best expand access to healthcare. To find out more about efforts to support greater access to healthcare, consider visiting https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/health-care-access-and-quality.

References

Berchick, E.R., Hood, E., & Barnett, J.C. (2018). Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2017. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/content/dam/Census/library/publications/2018/demo/p60-264.pdf

Overcoming Life’s Challenges with a Positive and Healthy Attitude | Encouragement from James 1: 2-4

Photo by Eric Sanman on Pexels.com

Life is a journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected hurdles. As we traverse our own path, we encounter challenges that test our resilience, adaptability, and determination. These enduring challenges shape our character, help define our purpose, and propel us toward growth and development. Additionally, working through troubling circumstances helps to strengthen us emotionally, especially perhaps to endure greater responsibilities for the advancement of God’s kingdom. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (New International Version Bible, 2024, James. 1: 2-4).

Very interesting encouragement from the epistle of James. What if James is suggesting within the sacred text that as we endeavor to work through adverse circumstances negatively impacting us, we should keep a positive and healthy posture when dealing with these issues or problems? Perhaps this seems like a tall order to endure trials and keep a positive and healthy attitude, kind of like climbing a tall mountain.

First we must choose to climb the mountain (decide to address the hardship). Next, we prepare to climb the mountain (Prepping mindset to climb, trusting Him as the source of our strength). Then we climb (working to overcome the problem, building our faith and confidence with each step we take). Finally, we reach the mountain peak (at the top, we have a new sense of ourselves and our faith through this accomplishment).

Although navigating the steep terrain of a mountain can be daunting, reaching the peak can strengthen our sense of purpose, relationships, health, productivity, etc. No matter the mountain(s) (i.e., hardship, obstacle, problem, barrier, etc.) we are facing in our lives, with a view from the mountaintop, we can look back and reflect on the journey up the mountain – allowing for learning and new strength to be applied to the next climb. We become a more complete version of ourselves to be more useful in fulfilling our kingdom purpose. Still, in the climb, we must remain positive and healthy, emotionally. In this way, we endure.

We work to maintain a positive and healthy emotional well-being as we face any struggle. This means managing emotions well and having a sense of meaning, purpose, and supportive relationships (CDC, n.d.). Managing our emotions well, especially when experiencing hardships, includes:

  • Identifying, processing, and expressing emotions in healthy ways.
  • Knowing how to deal with uncertainty, stress, and change.
  • Being able to work through disagreements.
  • Looking for solutions to problems in useful ways.
  • Asking others for help and support.

Efforts to be remain positive and healthy during stressful and tough times may not be easy. That is why it is important to keep your sight towards the peak (look up) and keep moving in a forward (advancing) direction. Continue to climb, working ourselves out of any valley (low place, low feeling). For more encouragement, we hope you will connect with us in the comments area of this blogpost or on Facebook. Also, we encourage connecting with a good church that positively and healthfully nurtures spiritual and emotional well-being.

References
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. (n.d.). About Emotional Well-Being. https://www.cdc.gov/emotional-well-being/about/index.html

New International Version. (2024). YouVersion. https://www.bible.com/bible/111/PHP.4.13

New International Version. (2024). YouVersion. https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JAS.1.NIV

Taraji P. Henson is taking a stand to challenge mental health stigma

By Aamya Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Taraji P. Henson is a beloved actor and veteran in the entertainment industry. She is best known for taking strong female leads that focus on the empowerment and strength of African American women. Though she is a very gifted actress, Taraji has also been a advocate for raising mental health awareness within the African American community. Mental illnesses can be experienced by many each year, with the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH) reporting 57.8 million adults each year experience any mental illness (AMI) (NIMH, 2023). AMIs are characterized as a mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder and can range from causing no impairment to daily functioning to mild, moderate, and severe impairment (NIMH, 2023).

The percentage of African Americans experiencing AMIs annually is 21.4% or roughly one (1) of out every five (5) African American adults (NIMH, 2023). However, it may seem that challenges in mental health are not discussed within our communities. Not discussing mental illness may be even more detrimental to our health, especially because African Americans have experienced more forms of historical oppression, racism, dehumanization, and race-based violence than other people groups in the United States (SAMHSA, n.d.). Additionally, adverse experiences and negative encounters in the health care system can cause mistrust among African Americans for health care professionals (SAMHSA, n.d.). 

Stigma in discussing mental health challenges and overcoming negative encounters accessing health care is one of several reasons Ms. Henson has established an initiative within her community to create Wellness Pods. In 2018, Taraji, created the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation in honor of her Veteran father who struggled with his mental health after his time in war. Her foundation was created to battle the stigma against mental health in the Black community and she does this with the He, She, and They Care Wellness Pods initiative within HBCUs. Recently created was the She Care Wellness Pod that is used as a healthy and safe space for Black women who may be feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or depressed.

Taraji has long been an advocate for mental health and therapy for the Black community and she has expressed her own battle with mental health on many different occasions. She even told Entertainment Tonight about her suicide ideation back in 2020. This is one example of many that shows anyone can be affected by mental health and we should show love and support to those within our sphere of influence when something is just “not right.” To help improve your mental health and the health of well-being of those around you, the WWL encourages the following (Tartakovsky, 2022):

  • Getting enough sleep (generally 7 – 9 hours nightly)
  • Spending less time engaged with social media
  • Strengthening your relationships with those are supportive of you
  • Staying active with exercise most days (generally 30 minutes daily)
  • Drinking plenty of water (8+ cups daily)
  • Knowing when to relax, de-stress, and seek help (overcoming previous experiences and advocating for yourself and loved ones)
  • Going outside for sunlight and fresh air

Let’s all work to prevent mental illnesses and build mental resilience by following general health and wellness tips offered by trusted sources. Additionally, it is “OK” and normal to need the help and support of positive and healthy people in your network. As the good song says,…”we all need somebody to lean on.” Finally, seek the support of professionals and if in crisis, use the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Resources

NIMH. (2023, March). Mental Illness. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness#part_2540

SAMHSA. (n.d.). Black/African american. SAMHSA. https://www.samhsa.gov/behavioral-health-equity/black-african-american

Tartakovsky, M. (2022, May 2). 8 daily habits for Improved Mental Health. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/habits-to-improve-mental-health#sleep

Taking on Stereotypes About Black Women’s Hair

By Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by Ogo on Pexels.com

It gets incredibly exhausting to dispel myths about the African American culture constantly.  It is even more tiring to have to defend your hair repeatedly.  As more black women become educated, enter the workforce, and become entrepreneurs, many still defend their hair, especially if they wear it in natural styles like afros, braids, Bantu knots, and locs.  In recent years, Black women have increasingly embraced wearing their natural hair and have abandoned using perms and relaxers.  Some say this could be viewed as the Black woman’s revolution, and even though Black women have been celebrated and (mostly) accepted for their decision to go all-natural, it is still an ongoing battle to combat some stereotypes associated with Black hair. 

So, what are some of these stereotypes associated with Black women’s hair? Well, there is the myth that Black women never wash their hair.  This seemingly stems from the fact that most Black women’s hair is naturally dry, making it more vulnerable to breakage.  As a result, they may opt to wash their hair less frequently to avoid stripping it of its natural oils.  Another stereotype is that Black women’s hair cannot grow long, which is why Black women wear hair extensions and wigs.  Although race seems to be a factor in Black women’s hair growth, several other factors, including genetics, nutrition, and age, also play a role.  On average, a Black woman’s hair grows approximately 4 inches a year (one inch shorter per year than White women’s), but due to the coarse texture of Black hair, the length does not show unless the hair is straightened.  As far as Black women wearing weaves and wigs, most Black women wear them to provide a protective styling option, save time, and explore more hair options like different hair colors, not because their hair will not grow. 

These stereotypes are not exhaustive; unfortunately, much more must be debunked.  Hopefully, as more people educate themselves with facts and knowledge, Black women can finally escape the many stereotypes about their hair.

References

Alcindor, et al. (2021). PBS.org. How Hair Discrimination Impacts Black Americans in Their Personal Lives and Workplacehttps://www.pbs.org

Scholars Strategy Network. (2021). What’s Hair Got to Do with It? Black Women’s Bodies and the Traditional Look of Success in American Politics. https://scholars.org.

Killer Curves-The Dangers of Buttock Injections

By Angela Wilson | Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by Tara Winstead on Pexels.com

R&B singer K. Michelle, model and socialite Blac Chyna, and rapper Cardi B are all considered powerhouses in Hip Hop culture.  Their image and style are influential, and one particular asset is their curvy bodies and voluptuous buttocks.  As they proudly display their backsides, men lust, and women of all ages watch in admiration, often trying to emulate this look which can have dangerous implications.  These entertainers have been very vocal about the horrors they experienced with getting buttock injections and have used their platforms to caution other women against it.  K. Michelle had over 13 operations to remove her botched silicone injections after the silicone spread through her body, severely limiting her mobility.  She also had to have two blood transfusions. Blac Chyna just recently had her buttock injections removed after claiming her rear end would get inflamed, hot, and hard (Corrine, 2023).  Cardi B had her injections removed and noted how excruciatingly painful the process was (Williams, 2018).

So, what is going on with these butt injections? Why are some of Hip Hop’s biggest entertainers speaking out and warning us to beware? Silicone butt injections are dermal fillers that are injected into the buttocks to achieve a more rounded and fuller look.  These injections are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration and for good reason. Unfortunately, this does not deter many women from seeking unlicensed providers to accommodate their wishes to have a bigger butt. These procedures are extremely dangerous and can even be fatal.  Redness and burning of the skin, discoloration, irritation, leakage, dimpling, infection, and scarring are widespread following buttock injections.  Additionally, the buttock area is plentiful with blood vessels, which increases the chances of silicone traveling to the lungs and causing a (potentially fatal) embolism.  The silicone can also travel to your brain and cause a stroke.

When you look at the risks associated with buttock injections, it is no wonder why many Hip Hop women are speaking out against them.  Hopefully, their voices will be heard, and their advice adhered to.  Prayerfully, women who desire a more prominent, rounder butt, and are contemplating getting buttock injections, will ask themselves; Is it worth the risks?

References

Cherney, K. (2019). Alternatives to Dangerous and Illegal Buttock Augmentation Injections. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com

Corrine, A. (2023). Blac Chyna Gets Breast And Buttock Reduction Surgeries. Vibe. https://www.vibe.com  

Williams, S (2018). Cardi B’s Horrifying Story Serves AS a Reminder of the Dangers of Illegal Buttock Injections.  American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://plasticsurgery.org.

Light of the World, LLC. – Birmingham business aiming to bring light to mental health issues.

Amanda Benko | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

Last weekend I had the pleasure of meeting with Mr. Xavien Tate, Chief Executive Officer for a local business called “Light of the World.” At his launch party, Mr. Tate was kind enough to inform us of the many services offered by his group. Everything from travel therapy, financial therapy, peer coaching, life coaching (individual and group setting), and much more. Mr. Tate says his inspiration comes from the Bible; “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

What impressed me most was that he offers cleaning therapy. Not many people realize that there is a correlation between mental health and cleanliness in the home. Often when mental health issues take over, the home can become overwhelmingly daunting and thus only worsen. Mr. Tate recognizes an issue and a need for these matters. Check out the live video on Wilkinson’s Wellness Lab for an interview with Mr. Tate and his staff. Please check out this local business, and help be the light of the world.

To learn more or seek assistance, please check out lwicorp.org or follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LWICORPLLC or visit: https://www.lwicorp.org/

Nick Cannon Stands Up Against Lupus

Ashley Peoples | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo: Instagram/nickcannon

Nick Cannon is known for many of his attributes with his long-standing career, in the areas of as acting, rapping, and his show “Wild N’ Out“. However, like many people he has been battling lupus since 2012. Lupus is a chronic auto-immune disease that causes the body to attack itself. Mr. Cannon was first hospitalized for lupus in 2012. He was experiencing kidney failure which is a known symptom.

On Christmas day 2016, Mr. Cannon was hospitalized again for a lupus flare up as stated by CNN. During his time in the hospital, he experienced many emotions and relied strongly on his faith. It is important to understand that Lupus is an auto immune disease that can cause a flare up randomly. Nick Cannon’s strength of pushing through and choosing to fight every day is admirable.  As stated by Mr. Cannon “I’m sitting here getting stronger like ‘Iron Man’” (Melas 2016). I believe his story can help people that are experiencing lupus or undergoing test to figure out if it is cause for their current health issues. Celebrities like Mr. Cannon are brave for sharing their personal health issues with the world.

References

Melas, C. (2016, December 28). Nick Cannon Gives Health Update after spending Christmas in the hospital. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2016/12/28/entertainment/nick-cannon-lupus-hospital/index.html

McLaughlin, K. (2012, March 10). Nick Cannon on the fight for his life. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2012/03/09/showbiz/nick-cannon-on-the-fight-for-his-life/index.html

Nick Cannon, lupus warrior. Lupus Foundation of America. (n.d.). https://www.lupus.org/personal-stories/nick-cannon-lupus-warrior

Pete Davidson – It’s OK when you are not OK

Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo: Saturday Night Live @NBCSNL on Instagram

Pete Davidson is a comedian, actor, and writer.  He made us laugh for many years while performing outrageous skits on the late-night series, Saturday Night Live, but America’s funny man has checked into a rehabilitation facility, and it is no laughing matter (Drillinger, 2023) . Davidson has always been transparent about his diagnosis of post traumatic stress disorder, (PTSD) and borderline personality disorder. Sometimes we think that entertainers are exempt from mental health issues, but Davidson is the epitome of that not being the case.  Pete Davidson is one of millions of Americans who suffer from mental health disorders, partially brought on by the death of his father in the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Like Pete, many Americans need therapy to help protect their mental health, and according to Cindy Sharp, a local Clinical Social Worker/ Therapist, who specializes in trauma, anxiety, and depression, there has been a spike in people seeking mental health services. Worry, grief, self-doubt, anxiety, losing loved ones, and divorce are things that we all go through at some point in our lives. However, due to the stigma attached to mental health, we often do not seek out the help that we need. People end up suffering in silence as they struggle with day-to-day living. Most of us will go to a doctor when our physical body is in pain, but when our mental state is hurting, we do not put forth the same energy. We need to normalize and destigmatize taking care of our mental health.

Mrs. Sharp’s practice focuses on a holistic approach to therapy.  She feels passionate about providing an environment where people with mental health issues can feel safe and supported so they can embrace positivity and begin the journey to heal.  She is just one of many therapists who can help you explore your troubling issues. 

If you are struggling with your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors and feel that your mental health is at risk, please seek help! It is OK so say you are not OK.  Pete Davidson realized he was not ok and took the necessary steps to get help. How many others are willing to do the same?

References

Drillinger, M. (2023). Pete Davidson Checks Into Rehab for PTSD, Other Mental Health Issues. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com

Remembering CJ Harris – Alabama Native and American Idol – The Importance of Heart Health

Amanda Benko | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

PHOTO: @CJHarrisMusic / INSTAGRAM

The unexpected passing of CJ Harris, a talented Jasper, Alabama native who gained recognition through his appearance on season 13 of American Idol, is truly tragic. Fans and the music industry have felt mourning after its departure. At only 31 years old, Harris’ death serves as a reminder to prioritize heart health regardless of age.

Harris, recognized for his sincere character and compelling stage aura, made a memorable impact on the show and his fans’ hearts. Even though he was young, his performances highlighted great musical maturity and brought happiness to countless people (11Alive, 2023). CJ Harris, who died on 01/15/2023, went under a medical emergency with family confirming that he had a heart attack that led to his death.

The Importance of Heart Health at Any Age

CJ Harris’s heart condition led to his death since it was asymptomatic and late recognized. Preventing complications and saving lives can be achieved by detecting and addressing heart issues early despite individuals’ age. A healthy heart reduces the chances for complications, which can be achieved by regular medical check-ups, blood pressure screenings, and cholesterol level assessments that can identify potential risks, allowing for timely intervention and lifestyle modifications in all stages of life (World Health Organization, 2021). In addition, awareness about heart-healthy practices from an early stage can imbue lifelong customs that foster well-being.

Enhancing Long and Healthy Life

Heart health should never be underestimated, regardless of one’s age – and the untimely death of Harris serves as a poignant reminder. A healthy heart enhances long and healthy life for people by reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases in all stages of life. Globally, heart disease remains the primary reason for mortality, affecting individuals from various walks of life. Reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications later in life requires prioritizing heart health regardless of an individual’s age (World Health Organization, 2021). Evidence consistently reveals the interconnection between heart health and overall well-being. Reflecting on Harris’s death, he had a long life to live, only his heart health was not considered (due to his young age), leading to his death at 31. It is essential for individuals to have healthy hearts of all ages.

Reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and enjoying a healthier, more fulfilling life is possible for individuals by taking proactive measures and making informed lifestyle choices. Both individuals and society must promote heart health through education, awareness campaigns, and accessible healthcare services. A good and prosperous life depends on having a healthy heart. Have you talked to your doctor about heart health?

References

C.J. Harris, former “American Idol” contestant, dies at 31. (2023a). Retrieved June 21, 2023, from 11Alive.com website: https://www.11alive.com/article/news/nation-world/cj-harris-dies-at-31/507-7e872522-cc82-4919-8b09-d4a7fcbb9428

World Health Organization. (2021). Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cardiovascular-diseases-(vcds)