Tag: Physical Health

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

Nicole Eggert’s brave battle and raising breast cancer awareness

By PHAME-US Campaign

In December of 2023, Nicole Eggert shared publicly that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. The 52 year old actress and mother of two, popularly known for her roles in popular television shows such as “Baywatch” and “Charles in Charge,” shocked her fans when she revealed her breast cancer diagnosis. By sharing her personal journey, she has become an advocate for breast cancer awareness, shedding light on the challenges that individuals facing this disease encounter.

Nicole Eggert’s decision to share her breast cancer diagnosis with the public is a commendable act that goes beyond personal vulnerability. By doing so, she has actively contributed to the ongoing conversation about breast cancer awareness. Awareness campaigns play a crucial role in encouraging early detection, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings, and dispelling myths surrounding the disease. Eggert’s openness encourages others to prioritize their health and seek medical attention when needed.

In 2024, the American Cancer Society (ACS) (n.d.) estimates about 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women. Eggert’s openness about her breast cancer diagnosis not only raises awareness but also encourages a much-needed dialogue about the emotional and physical toll of the disease. The ACS (n.d.) reports that a cancer diagnosis can affect the emotional health of patients, families, and caregivers and is associated with feelings of anxiety, distress, and depression. By sharing the ups and downs of her treatment, she helps break down the stigma associated with cancer, fostering a supportive environment for those facing similar challenges. This dialogue is essential in creating a more empathetic society that understands the complexities of the cancer journey.

To reduce risk of breast cancer, the ACS recommends:

Have you used been screened for breast cancer? Is breast cancer on your health radar? What are your experiences in breast cancer prevention? We encourage the sharing of valuable information and experiences here in the comments section or here on Facebook.

References

Can God feel my pain?

By Mr. James Harris

Photo by Helena Lopes on Pexels.com

One night we had to take our youngest son to the ER because he was complaining of stomach pains. He was only 3 years old so describing the depth of the pain, he could not do, all he could say was, “Mommy Daddy it hurt, and pointed to his stomach.”

We took him and began to examine him. The nurse said she needed to take some blood to see if it was something they needed to treat. I will never forget what happened next as the nurse pulled out the needle to draw blood from his little arm. Wanda said to me “I cannot watch this” and left the room. There I stood having to hold him down to allow them to take his blood. I will never forget the look in his eyes, as the tears began to fall. He could not understand how his father could allow someone to hurt him like that.

We think that our Heavenly Father has no feelings or understanding of the pain in our hearts or the things that we have to bear in our daily lives. I am not sure where that lie came from but it is a big lie from the pit of hell. Jesus sets the record straight in Matt. 6:26 (NIV) about how the Father cares for us.

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”

I love my sons but God loves them and you and I much more than we have the capacity to totally understand. Jesus, the son of God became the son of man, so we the sons of men could become sons of God. Our Father wanted His Family back.

Blessings, James Harris

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

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.

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.

Forest Whittaker: Life with Ptosis

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.

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

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

Hair Straighteners: What you NEED to know

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

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

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)).

Women of color, celebrity, and risks during pregnancy

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/