Category: Protection

Advancement-oriented Advocacy Health(y) Positive Prevention Profiles Promotion Protection

Impact of Free Healthcare at 2024 Paris Olympics & Healthcare Accessibility

By Larrell Wilkinson on

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

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Beauty Encouragement Especially for the Ladies For young girls Health(y) Hopeful Profiles Protection Wholeness

Women in entertainment share their stories of abuse (National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1.800.799.3224)

By purpose88 on

By Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program Intern

Keke Palmer is an established actor, singer, and television host. She made history by becoming the first and youngest African American woman to play Cinderella on Broadway.  Cassandra Ventura (Cassie) is a singer, songwriter, dancer, model, and actress. Both ladies have amassed millions of fans who adore their work and respect their craft. They are constant fixtures on social media, of achieved both fame and fortune, and in committed relationships. Keke has a four-month-old baby with boyfriend Darius Jackson and Cassie has 2 children with hubby Alex Fine. These two ladies seem to have a life that most would envy. But unfortunately, according to them, they have endured rocky moments: Cassie in a previous relationship with another well-known celebrity.

Keke Palmer sent shockwaves through the entertainment world in November of 2023 when she requested (and received) a temporary protection order and sole custody of her 6-month-old child with boyfriend Darius Jackson whom she alleged physically assaulted her. She also revealed pictures on Instagram that appeared to confirm these allegations.

Cassandra Ventura (Cassie), shocked the hip-hop world when she alleged physical and sexual abuse by Sean Love Combs, also known as Puff Daddy, P. Diddy, and Brother Love. Puff Daddy is very well-known in the entertainment industry for being a singer, songwriter, record producer, actor and philanthropist. Puff Daddy settled with Cassie a day after her civil lawsuit was filed for an undisclosed amount of money. Although settled in court, Cassie’s claims does shine a light on harsh realities and adverse experiences she endured while starting a career in the music industry. After spending years in darkness, Cassie has exclaimed her desire to speak up so that she could help other women who may also be in abusive relationships. Since her public allegations were made, three other women have come forward with accusations of physical and sexual abuse against Puff Daddy.

KeKe and Cassie’s resilience should be celebrated and their efforts to “speak up” are applauded by many. Their story is one of adverse experiences, but continues to provide HOPE for many who are following their journeys. For example, KeKe hosted the Soul Train Music Awards in November 2023, performing an emotional song called “Ungorgeous,” baring her soul and family challenges. KeKe has many projects in the works and is continuing to focus on her family. Cassie too is enjoying motherhood, her role as a wife to a loving husband, and continues her modeling career. They both are living models of encouragement for overcoming hardships in intimate partner violence (IPV).

According to the Domestic Violence Hotline, 3 out 10 women have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by a partner and reported it having a related impact on their functioning. Additionally, IPV affects more than 12 million people every year in the United States. Domestic abuse is never okay!  If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, there is help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can call, send a text message, or start a chat. They offer care, support, and advocacy and can be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or by texting “START” to 88788.

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Prevention Promotion Protection

Killer Curves-The Dangers of Buttock Injections

By Jessica Feagin on

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.

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Prevention Profiles Protection

NeNe Leakes and many other families experience challenges with fentanyl in the United States

By purpose88 on

By Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Linnethia Monique Johnson, also known as NeNe Leakes is a reality television personality, actress, author, author, and fashion designer.  NeNe has amassed over $14 million in her career. Still, like many Americans, Leakes still has experienced the harsh circumstances of drug use within her family. Bryson Bryant, Leakes oldest son was arrested on felony drug possession charges on July 3, 2023, in Gwinnett County, Georgia.  Police found the 33-year-old in possession of fentanyl. Initially, Leakes was quiet about her son’s arrest, but a few days ago, she broke her silence about the incident on a television podcast. 

Leakes did not make excuses for her son and insisted that he needed rehabilitation and counseling. She also admitted that her son has an addiction problem that he has been struggling with for years, and although he has been to rehabilitation, he has relapsed several times. During the interview, she confessed that she has other family members who struggle with drug addiction too.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), almost 22% of people over the age of 12 used illicit drugs, including marijuana, and 9.2 million people over the age of 12 misused opioids.  Also, The Center for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that in 2021, over 106,500 people in the United States died from drug overdoses.  Even more alarming, people as young as 15 were included in these overdoses because of an increased use of fentanyl. These statistics prompted the Government Accountability Office to classify the illegal use of drugs as a high risk and emergent issue.  Currently, the White House has laid out a strategic plan that includes a multi-disciplinary approach to combat illegal drug use.  The main intervention efforts focus on untreated addiction and drug trafficking and directs federal agencies to make help available for people in need, save lives, and aggressively go after drug traffickers.

Drug use and addiction impacts us all because when people are addicted to drugs, there is usually an increase in crime, criminal justice costs, and burdens on social services.  Individuals who are addicted to drugs also experience a decrease in work performance, deteriorating relationships, and unpaid health care bills.

So, whether you are the son of a famous television personality like Ne-Ne Leakes, or not, it is imperative that you get help if you or someone you know is addicted to drugs. There are several options available including using FDA approved medications, facilitation therapy, outpatient counseling, and inpatient rehabilitation.  Drug addiction is a battle that we cannot afford to lose! For more on seeking help for substance abuse, please call 1-800-662-4357 and visit, https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline.

References

Gramlich, J. (2017). Pew Research Center. Nearly Half of Americans Have a Family Member Or Close Friend Who’s Been Addictged To Drugs. https://www.pewresearch.org.

John Hopkins Medicine. (2022). New Research and Insights into Substance Use Disorder. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). U.S. Overdose Deaths in 2021 Increased Half as Much as in 2020. https://www.cdc.gov.

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Prevention Profiles Protection Understanding (Insight & Wisdom)

Beach safety and awareness after the loss of former NFL Quarterback Ryan Mallett

By abenko2016 on

By Amanda Benko | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo: Courtesy of County Website: coab.us

The gulf coast has seen at least 11 drowning deaths in the last month. The death of former Houston Texans quarterback, Ryan Mallett, is bringing new attention to these tragedies. Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford states on Facebook, “I am beyond frustrated at the situation that we have with tragic and unnecessary deaths in the Gulf.” He goes on to say that he has witnessed lifeguards, firefighters, and deputies all risking their lives to save strangers. He remarks on two different events where fathers drown (on Father’s Day), trying to save their kids from the Gulf of Mexico rip currents. Ford goes on to mention that they have been using the double red flags but do not have the resources to sight everyone who enters the water. Over 113 people died in 2021 due to rip currents.  

The beach flags are an example of strategies to reduce cases of drownings. When rip currents are present, lifesaving techniques increase public confidence, preventing drowning (Locknick, 2020). The hazards on the beach include marine life and various hazardous conditions. The red flag is a significant beach flag indicating that entering the water is discouraged for the public since dangerous currents or high surf is present. Other beach flags include the red over the red flag (or double-red), yellow, and purple flag. The double red flag indicates that the public should not enter the water; the beach is closed. Beachgoers need to exercise caution and abide by the warnings that flags signify. The ocean has an unpredictable nature and many potential dangers.

Ryan Mallett had recently accepted a job as a head coach in White Hall, Arkansas. His example for young athletes will be greatly missed and the community was deeply saddened by his loss. His death is a tragic reminder for us to take the beach warnings provided by the warning flags seriously. Many of us are not current or former elite athletes and his death reminds us of the strength of the ocean current. Please be safe and educate yourself and your family on beach warning flags, beach etiquette, and beach safety. For these and more tips, please visit the American Red Cross and the United States Lifesaving Association.

References:

Field Jr, G. (2023). Water Safety Education in Michigan: Teachers as Navigators Towards Water Safety for Children and Youth (Doctoral dissertation, Michigan State University).

Fisher, M. (2023, June 28). Ryan Mallett’s Death: New Details Emerge; Sheriff “Frustrated” About “Deadliest Beach.” Fan Nation. https://www.si.com/nfl/texans/news/ryan-mallett-death-new-details-emerge-sheriff-deadly-beach-obit-houston-texans-tom-brady-rip-gulf

Locknick, S. (2020). Correspondence of Beach User Perception, Lifesaving Strategies and Rip Currents at Brackley Beach and Cavendish Beach Prince Edward Island (Doctoral dissertation, University of Windsor (Canada)).

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Prevention Protection

Gun Safety: Protecting Children from Firearms

By Jessica Feagin on

By Jessica Feagin | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

Many incidences have occurred where young children accidentally shoot themselves with a gun, even in their homes. It breaks my heart how kids are being put in these situations that could have easily been prevented. It is our job as adults to protect our youth. Children are impulsive and naturally curious. Therefore, they explore and pick up things that may spark an interest. Even if you warn your children about the dangers of guns, they still may want to explore the gun. You must teach your children that guns are very dangerous, not to touch the gun, to move far away from the gun, and immediately tell an adult if they see one.

There were at least 2,802 unintentional shootings by children 17 years old and younger, resulting in 1,083 deaths and 1,815 nonfatal injuries between 2015 and 2022 in the United States (“Guns in the home: Keeping kids safe,” n.d.). At least 895 preschoolers and toddlers found a gun and unintentionally shot themselves.

If you have a gun in the home, it is essential that there is a safe space provided in the house. Our responsibility is to ensure the gun is stored correctly and inaccessible to all children. Project ChildSafe Program provides some safety precautions for gun storage (“Parents & gun owners,” 2022):

  • Store unloaded guns in a locked safe, cabinet, storage case, or vault. The location of the storage unit should be inaccessible to children.
  • Gun parts should be stored securely in separate locations if the gun is disassembled.
  • Separate from guns, ammunition should be stored in a locked location.
  • Whenever you remove the gun from storage, double-check it to ensure it is unloaded.

Project Child Safe Program provides free Project Child Safe Safety Kits through their enforcement partners, including a cable-style gun lock and safety instructions. Use this link, Get a Safety Kit – Project ChildSafe, to request a Project ChildSafe firearm safety kit in your state.

Unintentional shootings of children are a devastating occurrence and can be prevented with safety precautions in the home and teaching our children about the dangers of guns. Most importantly, never leave a child alone in the house where a gun is kept. Let’s protect our children from guns.

References:

Guns in the home: Keeping kids safe. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Handguns-in-the-Home.aspx

Parents & gun owners. (2022, October 25). Retrieved from https://projectchildsafe.org/parents-and-gun-owners/

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Advocacy Protection

Women of color, celebrity, and risks during pregnancy

By phameuscampaign on

By Ashley Peoples | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Kei Scampa on Pexels.com

On May 2, 2023, Tori Bowie was found dead at her home in Florida following a welfare check performed by local authorities. In June 2023, medical officials said that the world class athlete suffered possible complications that included eclampsia. Eclampsia is a health condition associated with high blood pressure when a woman is pregnant that can lead to seizures, coma, or death (CDC, 2023). Eclampsia may be preceded by preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a disorder of pregnancy indicated by the beginning of high blood pressure and often a substantial amount of protein in the urine (CDC, 2023)

Beyoncé is a well known artist, actor, singer, and song writer. During her pregnancy with her twins, Rumi and Sir Carter, she had a Caesarean section. Mrs. Carter was placed on bed rest, according to The Washington Post. Mrs. Carter was diagnosed with toxemia per the Washington Post as well. Toxemia is when the blood has poison in it, also referred to as preeclampsia.

According to the NIH (National institute of Medicine) African American women in the United States have higher risk of preeclampsia. The prevalence of preeclampsia has risen significantly within the past 20 years among African American women (Karrar & Hong), 2023). Consistent readings of blood pressure measures of higher than “140 over 90” may indicate that a pregnant woman has preeclampsia. Specifically, 140 is the top number measures systolic blood pressure and the bottom number, 90, measures diastolic blood pressure. To learn more about blood pressure readings, visit the American Heart Association

Mrs. Carter stated “My health and my babies’ health were in danger, so I had an emergency C-section” per an interview in the Washington Post. Mrs. Carter is lending her voice by telling her story, raising awareness of circumstances experienced by African American women regarding pregnancy. Her interview and actions are in alignment with public and community health efforts to raise awareness and support to address preeclampsia and eclampsia. For more information regarding these conditions and other pregnancy resources, please visit the March of Dimes, Preeclampsia Foundation, and campaigns by the CDC.

Are you or someone you know currently pregnant? What concerns do you have during your pregnancy? What recommendations do you have for expectant mothers? As Mrs. Carter stated “I was in survival mode and did not grasp it all until months later. Today I have a connection to any parent who has been through such an experience” (WP, 2021). Connect with others and let’s share our experiences in support of one another. Share in the comments section below and/or visit us on Facebook here.

References:

WP Company. (2021, October 25). Beyoncé, Serena Williams open up about
potentially fatal childbirths, a problem especially for black mothers. The
Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2018/08/07/beyonce-serena-williams-open-up-about-potentially-fatal-childbirths-a-problem-especially-for-black-mothers/

Karrar SA, Hong PL. Preeclampsia. [Updated 2023 Feb 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK570611/

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Encouragement Hopeful Prevention Protection

John Mulaney’s Battle with Addiction – Turning Darkness into Laughs

By abenko2016 on

Amanda Benko | UAB School of Education Intern – Community Health & Human Services

John Mulaney is a popular stand-up comedian who has famously used his difficult past experiences as the subject of much of his routine, which includes a new relationship, birth of his son, and most notably addiction to cocaine, alcohol, and prescription medications. Most fans are aware of Mulaney’s past issues with drugs and alcohol, shedding light on his sober life and turbulent relationship with narcotics. When you watch Mulaney’s comedy, you’ll see a courageous man whose comedy is rooted in his personal experience.

Drug-related deaths accounted for over 109,000 US deaths in 2021 according to the NIH. Statistics include the fact that just in the last year, over 9.2 million people over the age of 12 admitted to using opioids (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 2023). Drug abuse and addiction are anything but funny. If you are like me and have lost friends and loved ones to the disease of addiction, you certainly understand there is nothing comical about it. This is an epidemic the White House has attempted to tackle, along with the medical community, law makers, and countless civilians. Mulaney makes jokes about how absurd he behaved on drugs, not about addiction itself.

He publicly thanks those who were there and those who have had a hand in his intervention and recovery. As most addicts know, recovery is a journey; and Mulaney is still here making us laugh because his friends cared enough to step in (with help of professionals). Watching his show, the part of his act that stood
out most were the words of Mulaney’s friend, actress Natasha Lyonne. When he tells this story, he is not going for a punchline, he is getting vulnerable about how bad things were. Though not a direct quote, the message stuck with me. Lyonne: Johnny, You gotta go to rehab honey. Your life is in shambles, your career is in shambles. I know you think going to rehab would be embarrassing, but the way you’re living right now is embarrassing. Once you’re out, you can chain-smoke around the streets of New York like you’re the g*d-damn Bob Fosse of your generation. We can walk around dreaming big dreams, like we’re high as a kite; but instead, you’ll be alive, and we’ll be sober together. Mulaney credits Lyonne’s words for being the final straw helping him commit to rehab. His friends saved his life, and because of them, he is still here entertaining us all. As a fan, I am grateful.

If you want to hear more, check out “Baby J” on Netflix, where Mulaney gives his personal account.

If you or someone you know is battling addiction, please call 888.844.9121 for help, or reach out to Narcotic Anonymous at 818.773.9999 or visit na.org.

References: 

Carcieri, R., & Johnston, C. (2022, March 21). John Mulaney’s “from scratch” successfully tackles heavy issues with Grace. The Brown Daily Herald. https://www.browndailyherald.com/article/2022/03/john-mulaneys-from-scratch-successfully-tackles-heavy-issues-with-grace

Grebenyuk, Y. (2023, May 4). Everything John Mulaney has said about drug addiction, recovery. Us Weekly. https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/everything-john-mulaney-has-said-about-drug-addiction-recovery/

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2023, January 4). Samhsa announces National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) results detailing mental illness and substance use levels in 2021. HHS.gov. https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/01/04/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2023, March 31). Drug overdose death rates. National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates

The United States Government. (2022, April 21). Fact sheet: White House releases 2022 National Drug Control Strategy that outlines comprehensive path forward to address addiction and the overdose epidemic. The White House. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/04/21/fact-sheet-white-house-releases-2022-national-drug-control-strategy-that-outlines-comprehensive-path-forward-to-address-addiction-and-the-overdose-epidemic/

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Prevention Promotion Protection

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

By abenko2016 on

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)

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Protection

The Kardashians Do It, But Should You?

By Jessica Feagin on

By Jessica Feagin | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

A waist trainer is designed to pull a person’s midsection tightly to give that sleek waist and hourglass figure. Sometimes wearing a waist trainer can cause weight loss by a person feeling as though they have a decrease in appetite due to the compression and sweating, not loss of body fat. In addition, improved posture may temporarily result while wearing a waist trainer, but wearing it too much can weaken your core muscles and cause poor posture and back pain (Fletcher, n.d.).

Aside from waist trainers’ benefits and impacts, they pose serious health risks. For example, wearing a waist trainer can cause difficulty breathing. Additionally, a study that was performed in 2018 reported that the maximum voluntary ventilation (how much air you can inhale and exhale in one minute) decreases while wearing a waist trainer (“Effect of waist trainers on breathing,” 2018). Wearing a waist trainer makes it harder for your body to get all the oxygen it needs, which is not safe, especially if you wear it during physical activity. Wearing a waist trainer may also cause nerve damage by compressing the nerve that runs down from the groin. Waist trainers compress your stomach, so it can cause some gastrointestinal symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux and cause you to eat less. Wearing a waist trainer pushes your organs in your midsection, which may shift positions or experience reduced blood flow, which can affect organ function (Vandergriendt, n.d.).

Dr. Wakim-Fleming from a Cleveland Clinic advises that it is OK to wear a waist trainer for a day to an event or if you want to wear it with a tight-fitting dress, but wearing a waist trainer consecutively day and night can become dangerous. This doctor’s rule of thumb is not to wear them overnight and not to wear them for multiple days in a row, but using them for special occasions for a couple of hours a day is acceptable (Cleveland Clinic, 2023).

I like to wear my waist trainers occasionally to get the hourglass look I am going for, as other ladies do. However, we must listen to our bodies while wearing a waist trainer. If you’re experiencing difficulty breathing, swelling in your lower extremities, food regurgitation after eating, or increased acid reflux…take it off IMMEDIATELY!

References

The effect of waist trainers on breathing. (2018, October 1). American Association for Respiratory Care. https://rc.rcjournal.com/content/63/Suppl_10/3012838.short

Fletcher, J. (n.d.). Do waist trainers work?: Benefits and risks. Medical and health information. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/do-waist-trainers-work

Vandergriendt, C. (n.d.). Are waist trainers dangerous? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/are-waist-trainers-dangerous

Waist trainers: What you should know. (2023, March 6). Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/do-waist-trainers-work/

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