Beauty Promotion Understanding (Insight & Wisdom)

Taking on Stereotypes About Black Women’s Hair

By Jessica Feagin on

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 Workplace.  https://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.

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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

Forest Whittaker: Life with Ptosis

By purpose88 on

By Angela R. Wilson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo: @forestwhitaker | INSTAGRAM

Forest Whittaker is an actor, producer, and director who has garnered lots of accolades and awards.  His career spans over 6 decades and includes an Academy Award for his portrayal of the Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in the film The Last King of Scotland.  While people often take notice of his accomplishments in the film industry, they also may notice at times the physical appearance of his eyes. Whitaker has a condition known as ptosis which not only impairs his vison, but also causes his eyelid to droop down. Ptosis is also known in simple terms as a lazy eye or drooping eye.

Ptosis can be hereditary, as in Whittaker’s case, but you can also get it as an adult if the nerves in your eyelid muscles become damaged. Ptosis can occur because of injury, disease, or other underlying conditions such as a stroke or neurological disorders. The muscles and ligaments that raise your eyes become weak and can no longer support holding them open. Lastly, Ptosis can occur as we get older and our eyes age. It is not uncommon for the ligaments and muscles around the eyes to become weaker as we get older.  Ptosis can affect one eyelid (unilateral ptosis), or both eyes (bilateral ptosis).  It can also be temporary or permanent and can significantly reduce your vison depending on how much of your pupil is obstructed.

Treatment of Ptosis depends on the cause and ranges from topical to surgical. A complete eye exam, blood tests, and imaging tests will assist the ophthalmologist in determining the best treatment.   FDA approved medications like Upneeq, containing oxymetazoline, are drops that can be used to raise the eyelids and open them up wider. Surgery may be needed for more severe types of ptosis.  Ptosis surgery involves making a small adjustment to the eyelids or strengthening the Levator Palpebrae Superioris muscle.  Levator Palpebrae muscles raise and maintain the upper eyelid. The surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia (to help with discomfort) and lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. 

There are several options to treat ptosis.  Just make sure you have a conversation with your physician to go over your expectations and concerns so that you can choose the best way to proceed. 

References:

American Optometric Association. (2023). Ptosis. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/ptosis?sso=y

Boyd, K. (2022). American Academy of Opthamology. What Is Ptosis?. https://www.aaa.org.

Seltman. W. (2022). WebMD. Droopy Eyelid (Ptosis). 5 Causes of Drooping Eyelid & Treatment. https://www.webmd.com.

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Advocacy Profiles

Selena Gomez opens up about mental health challenges while living with Lupus

By abenko2016 on

By Ashley Peoples | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo: @selenagomez/INSTAGRAM

In 2016 Selena Gomez, a singer, and actor, decided to take some time for herself to focus on challenges she was experiencing due to the medical condition, Lupus. According to the CDC (2023), Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system sees the body’s healthy cells as foreign invaders and attacks them, causing inflammation and harm to the affected organs. Selena learned that the anxiety and depression she was dealing with was a side effect of lupus. Per an interview through CNN, Ms. Gomez stated, “I’ve discovered that anxiety, panic attacks, and depression can be side effects of Lupus, which can present their own challenges”. Her experience with Lupus has motivated her to focus more on her health.

Ms. Gomez discussed the treatment that she received to manage her symptoms. Interestingly, she uses chemotherapy in her treatment. She mentioned, “I was diagnosed with Lupus, and I’ve been through chemotherapy.” Ms. Gomez’s story can foster more understanding regarding Lupus, as many are not aware of the medical condition. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, Lupus impacts 1.5 million Americans. 90% (9 out of 10) people with Lupus are women, many ages 15 – 44. Individuals diagnosed with Lupus may experience symptoms such as pain, tiredness, hair loss, cognitive issues, cardiovascular disease, strokes, disfiguring rashes, and painful joints.

If you are wondering if health challenges you are experiencing may be Lupus, it is important to know the signs. Symptoms to be aware of include:

  • “Butterfly Wings” rash on face
  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Stiffness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest Pain
  • Dry Eyes

Although Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease, it is a fight every day by celebrities and many in our communities experience. Be encouraged and talk to your doctor if you believe you are experiencing symptoms of Lupus. Also, if you have been diagnosed with Lupus, check out the Lupus Foundation of American website here to locate a support group near you. You can also find support groups on Facebook and other forms of social media.

References:

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. (2023). Lupus. https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/factsheets/lupus.htm

Kounang, N. (2016, August 31). Selena Gomez’s disease: What is lupus? CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2015/10/08/health/selena-gomez-reveals-she-has-lupus/index.html

Lupus Foundation of America. (2023). Lupus facts and statistics. https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-facts-and-statistics

Yahoo! (n.d.). Selena Gomez calls lupus an “everyday struggle”: What are the signs and symptoms? Yahoo! News. https://news.yahoo.com/selena-gomez-lupus-awareness-month-125648535.html?fr=yhssrp_catchall

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Beauty

Hair Straighteners: What you NEED to know

By reginiad on

Reginia Dodson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by Dellon Thomas on Pexels.com

The use of alleged natural products to straighten African American women’s hair seems somewhat formidable in nature but also seems important knowing the composition of hair and its structure that deems safe. The natural products used to straighten the hair are an alternative that may seem safe because of the term “natural” being used. The bottom line is that they all contain duplicate chemicals that will eventually become formaldehyde when heated. Most treatments won’t last long, meaning that after about 6 months the results will start to wash out, yet they claim to be free of harmful chemicals. Certain types of hair straightening methods may not cause cancer to most females but in turn, it will cause damage to the hair that is irrespirable and cause hair loss because the follicle is severely damaged. If the hair begins to grow back it will look drastically different from the straightened hair therefore meaning that another hair straightening must be applied to look coherent with the growth that is new.

Permanent hair straightening doesn’t mean it last forever. The results of hair straightening vary widely and are dependent upon the hair type and texture, meaning the life cycle of hair determines how long it will lay. Using hair straightening products is solely up to the consumer and what they are willing to sacrifice in order to get that look or to keep up with the current trend that’s acceptable or cool. Hair weave and extensions have become a healthier substitute or alternative as opposed to hair straightening products and chemicals because they need no chemicals to maintain the straight-hair appeal (Gathers, et.al,2014)

The National Institute of Health reported in 2022 that African American women had an increased risk of getting hormone-related cancer from applying products using hair straightening chemicals and dyes. The cancer most prevalent in African American women from this study was found to be uterine cancer. The frequency of cancer from using these hair straightening products was double that of their counterparts. The terms used to identify, and disguise these cancerous product sources are commonly known as perms or relaxers. African American women are more susceptible to these cancers from extended use over a long period of time because these treatments tend to straighten the hair present and not the hair being grown such as “new growth.”

There are several types of hair straightening methods:

  • Professional hair straightening (permanent) Salon appointment usually takes about two hours dependent upon the length of hair ($50)
  • At-Home hair straightening relaxing kits that are chemical based with the same results as the salon visit ($15)
  • Keratin hair straightening and Brazilian Blowouts straighten hair similar to other hair straightening methods but require several salon visits for completion of the application and last at least 3 to 5 months before a redo ($150)
  • Japanese Therma Straightening known as an “acid perm” requires 5 to 6 hours at a salon but lasts up to 6 months. This method uses a neutralizer that causes the hair to lock into a new shape ($200-800)
  • Hair Rebounding converts hair that is curly and wavy to straight in about 2 to 4 hours. This process uses formaldehyde which is a known cancer-causing agent but is able to straighten the hair much faster than all the other processes. The cost varies from ($250-1000) (Watson, 2023)

The most important thing to remember any time you are using products is do your research! Find a technique that is both affordable and safe for you.

References:

Gathers, C.R. & Mahan, M.G. (2014, Sep) African American Women, Hair Care, and Health

Barriers. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4174916/

Watson, K. (2023, May) Everything You Want to Know About Permanent Hair Straightening. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/permanent-hair-straightening

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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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Advocacy Encouragement Family (PHAMILY) Hopeful Prevention Promotion

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

By abenko2016 on

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/

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Advancement-oriented Encouragement Health(y) Hopeful PHAITH (Faith) Positive Profiles Promotion

Nick Cannon Stands Up Against Lupus

By phameuscampaign on

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

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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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Advocacy Encouragement Health(y) Positive Promotion

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

By purpose88 on

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

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