BV Wellness

Older Mothers At Risk of Having Autistic Children

Lynette Holloway — 2010-03-01T22:31:00+00:00

Women over the age of 40 who give birth have a 51 percent chance of having an autistic child compared with those who bear children between the ages of 25 and 29, according to a recent news report.

The father's age also is a factor, but only if he is older and the mother is under 30, according to an article published by CNN. The piece cites findings by researchers at the University of California, Davis, which first appeared in the February issue of the journal Autism Research and examined 10 years of data from births in California. It is unknown why the mother's age is more influential than the father's on a child's chances of developing autism.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), a group of developmental disabilities that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges, occur in all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups and are four times more likely to occur in boys than in girls, according to the Web site for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

According to the CDC, more people are being diagnosed with ASD than ever before. It estimates that one in 110 children in the United States have an ASD.

"It is unclear exactly how much of this increase is due to a broader definition of ASDs and better efforts in diagnosis,'' the CDC site reports. "However, a true increase in the number of people with an ASD cannot be ruled out. We believe the increase in ASD diagnosis is likely due to a combination of these factors.''

The new findings could be a game changer for researchers trying to tackle an elusive medical matter. For years, it was believed that the genes of both parents were connected to the disorder. In the 1980s, an Israeli study linked paternal genes to the increased risk of autism.

Still it has long been known that giving birth at an older age poses health risks to babies, including higher risks of birth defects, low birth weight and certain chromosome problems such as Down syndrome.

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Black Women Targeted by Ad Campaign for Alarming Abortion Rate

Lynette Holloway — 2010-03-01T22:25:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health

The image of a black baby and the words: "Black Children Are an Endangered Species" are prominently displayed on an ad in Atlanta as part of a campaign conducted by anti-abortion advocates.

The campaign comes at a time when statistics show that black women account for 37 percent of abortions, compared with 34 percent of non-Hispanic white women and 22 percent of Hispanic women, according to Mary Mitchell, the Chicago Sun-Times columnist, who cites a study by the Guttmacher Institute.

Single women who have never been married receive two-thirds of all abortions, and the age range of those more likely to receive one is between 18 to 24. Most are either separated or unmarried and have annual incomes of less than $15,000 or have Medicaid, Mitchell writes, citing statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The effort is being led by a group of black ministers, a mission Mitchell sees as a misguided endeavor. "While I applaud the black ministers who are leading the charge to educate black women about the alarming abortion rate,'' she writes, "these men are failing to address the root of the problem.

"How often are men urged from the pulpit to practice safe sex?" she asked. "Where are the billboards that urge black men to marry their baby's mamas so these women see their children as blessings and not mistakes?''

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Cutting-Edge Research May Lead to New HIV/AIDS Drug Treatment

Lynette Holloway — 2010-03-01T16:23:00+00:00

Filed under: Sexual Health, HIV/AIDS, Women's Health, Men's Health, Mental Health, Disease Prevention

In what promises to be good news for African American diagnosed with HIV/AIDS -- an epidemic that continues to be a major health crisis for the United States -- scientists may have found a new development after 20 years that could lead to better treatment, British and U.S. researchers announced at the beginning of the year.

Researchers from Imperial College of London and Harvard University say they have grown a crystal that reveals an enzyme structure known as integrase, which is found in retroviruses like HIV and is a target for some of the newest HIV medicines, according to Reuters. That means researchers can gain a better understanding of how the integrase inhibitor drug works to prevent HIV from developing a resistance to them.

Once infected, HIV uses the integrase enzyme to attach itself to someone's DNA. While some new drugs for HIV block the enzyme, scientists are unclear how to advance the medications. Now, they are encouraged by the high-quality crystals, which will allow them to see how the medicines bind to and block integrase.

The finding is encouraging news for African Americans. At the end of 2006, there were an estimated 1.1 million people living with HIV, of which almost half (46 percent) were black, according to the most recent statistics available from the Centers for Disease and Prevention.

While blacks represent approximately 12 percent of the U.S. population, they continue to account for a higher proportion of cases at all stages of HIV/AIDS, from infection to death, compared with members of other races and ethnicities.

Almost 60 million people have been infected with HIV, and 25 million people have died of HIV-related causes since the beginning of the AIDS epidemic. There is no cure and no vaccine, although drug cocktails can keep patients healthy.

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Fight Heart Disease With Healthy Eating

Lynette Holloway — 2010-02-28T14:16:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health, Diet & Nutrition, Fitness, Disease Prevention

Bill Clinton's recent health scare underscored the importance of maintaining good heart health. The former president had been eating well, exercising and keeping his blood pressure and cholesterol under control since his quadruple bypass surgery in 2004, according to recent news reports.

In spite of all of their efforts, sometimes patients like Clinton still need to have blocked arteries repaired up to a decade after bypass surgeries, according to the Associated Press article. Genetics and prior eating habits may play a role in the necessary repairs. Clinton was famous for indulging his cheeseburger habit.

Indeed, heart disease can be a lifetime struggle and even deadly. It is the leading cause of death among men and women in the United States, and accounts for 26 percent of deaths among African Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

That is why the CDC encourages prevention of heart disease. Methods include following a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and not smoking.

Below is a summary of some heart-healthy food and nutrition choices gathered by Foodconsumer.org:

1) Vitamin K2 supplements and green vegetables can help cut the risk of coronary heart disease, according to a study released in the September 2009 issue of Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases.

2) Green tea may lower the risk of heart disease in men by "reducing coronary atherosclerosis, a condition that leads to other heart diseases, heart attack and stroke."

3) Vitamin D supplements can help reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease and death, according to a study conducted by researchers at the Heart Institute at Intermountain Medical Center in Salt Lake City. "People with very low levels of vitamin D were 77 percent more likely to die, while 45 percent were more likely to suffer coronary artery disease; 78 percent were more likely to have a stroke than those with normal levels of the sunshine vitamin,'' the study found.

4) Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the risk heart disease.

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What's Love Got to Do With It? Fantasy? Reality?

Phill Wilson — 2010-02-13T18:11:00+00:00

Filed under: HIV/AIDS

Millions of Americans are celebrating Valentine's Day this weekend by sending each other flowers, going out to brunch or dinner, or even getting engaged. Of course, advertisers want us to believe that love is about heart-shaped boxes, diamonds, flowers, chocolate and candlelit dinners. But true love is much more substantive than that. In fact, our addiction to the fairy tales we see in the movies not only makes it unlikely that we'll experience love, but also leaves us more vulnerable to heartbreak -- or worse.

Regardless of our race, age, gender, sexual orientation or even marital status, being sexually active in today's world -- particularly for those of us who are Black --requires that we talk about difficult issues: our beliefs about monogamy; the importance of getting tested for HIV and other STDs; our sexual history and risk factors; and, for many of us, disclosing the fact that we have an STD, such as HIV.

Countless numbers of us who say we are in love aren't having the difficult conversations that true love requires. Instead we are engaging in a fantasy, for example, not wanting to "ruin the mood," or pretending that people in love don't have to talk about difficult issues.

But by skipping these conversations to preserve the fantasy of love, we not only leave ourselves more vulnerable to STDs and HIV but also deprive ourselves of the opportunity to experience the love that we really want.

Lasting love means being committed to sharing in each other's daily life -- our hopes and desires, our fears and insecurities. It is more about washing the dishes, walking the dog and taking out the trash than it is about wining and dining and making passionate love. The mundane tasks of daily living create the context within which true love can grow. When you're washing and drying the dishes, you share your hopes and dreams. You discuss worries and fears while walking the dog. Along the way, you learn about and build trust in the other person. As you begin to know each other, you begin to love each other--the true person, not the fantasy.

I often say to gay people who are thinking about disclosing their sexual orientation: Our families cannot love us if they don't know us. If we want them to love us, we need to allow them to know all of who we are.

The same principle applies to romantic relationships. If we spend our energy holding back from our partner and hiding certain facts about ourselves, we do not have true love; we have a fantasy at best. There is no way to know whether the person really loves us because we haven't given him or her the chance to really know us. No wonder we feel anxious and insecure in this type of relationship environment.

But if we take the risk of letting someone know us, then that person can support us and have our back. When that happens, we find out for certain whether he or she really loves us, and we feel confident enough to interact safely with our mate.

I think this is particularly true for women. I often hear Black women say, "I can't talk to my partner about getting tested for HIV or even using a condom because he might leave me." He might, but if you cannot share your concerns with him, maybe you should not share your vagina with him either.

We all deserve love--not the illusion of love, the fantasy of love or the Madison Avenue version of love, but real love. And the price of true love should not be the risk of death. That's what love's got to do with it!

Phill Wilson is president and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute.

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Black Americans Are Greater Than AIDS

Phill Wilson — 2010-02-06T23:38:00+00:00

Filed under: HIV/AIDS, Women's Health, Men's Health, Disease Prevention

I'm excited to be back as a regular contributor to Black Voices as we commemorate both Black History Month and National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, Sunday, February 7th. This is "Greater Than AIDS," a new monthly column that will run in conjunction with the national Greater Than AIDS movement. Our goal is inform Black people about activities that our community is already engaged in -- and to enlist your support in what we still need to accomplish -- to overcome HIV/AIDS and bring the epidemic to an end.

Black people have been greater than any challenge we have confronted in the past. We were greater than the Middle Passage. We were greater than slavery. We were greater than Reconstruction. We were greater than Jim Crow. And, we will be greater than AIDS as well.

Yet each year more than 56,000 Americans contract HIV -- almost half of whom are Black. Black people account for two-thirds of the infections that occur among women. Among youth, that number rises to 70 percent. Research conducted among young Black gay and bisexual men suggests that about half of them are HIV-positive. And the AIDS rate in our nation's capital is as high as that of many African countries. These are the challenges we face. These are the challenges we cannot afford to ignore.

We confront these issues at a unique time in Black American history. Slightly over one year ago, we celebrated the inauguration of Barack Obama, America's first Black president. In 2006, then-Senator Obama spoke about the power of Black people to come together to be greater than this disease. Presidential candidate Obama promised to focus on the country's HIV/AIDS epidemic, with a particular emphasis on reducing the disproportionate impact of HIV on communities of color.

And, over the past 12 months, much progress has been made. Last April, the White House and CDC launched "Act Against AIDS," the first national HIV/AIDS social-marketing effort the government has undertaken in 20 years. The Administration is also working to create the first-ever National HIV/AIDS Strategy, a road map that will help federal agencies and state health departments work more strategically and collaboratively to fight AIDS.

The President has also lifted the ban against syringe exchanges that replace injection-drug users' dirty needles, as well as laws barring people with HIV from traveling to our country. These changes bring the United States in line with global human rights and HIV policy standards, paving the way for the U.S. to host the International AIDS Conference in 2012 -- the first time in over 20 years. And this month, the President is scheduled to announce the members of the President's Advisory Commission on HIV/AIDS (PACHA), a key group that will help keep AIDS at the top of his agenda.

At the same time, however, our nation's economic crisis is forcing state and local governments to make hard choices about how they spend their dwindling financial resources. Funding is being cut to organizations that treat and support people with HIV and AIDS, and waiting lists for low-income people who need governmental subsidies for AIDS medications are lengthening.

As we mark another Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, I'm reminded that governments can only do so much. Each of us has the power to make a difference in response to AIDS - in our relationships, in our families, and in our communities. Today, Black people are educating themselves about HIV/AIDS, getting their annual or semi-annual HIV test, increasing their involvement in the movement to end the disease and seeking treatment if they need it. But we must not become complacent; for in our community, every day presents a new opportunity to respond to this disease, to protect ourselves, to challenge stigmas, and to embrace our brothers and sisters who are already living with the virus.

Black leaders and institutions are tuned in and are making AIDS part of their mission as never before. Among them are the new chairman of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, Danny Bakewell, Sr.; his predecessor, John B. Smith Sr., Hazel Trice Edney, NNPA's editor-in-chief; and Dorothy Lavelle, president of the NNPA Foundation -- all of whom I want to thank for their longstanding support on this issue.

Against this backdrop, we start this Greater Than AIDS conversation. I invite you to go to GreaterThan.org to learn the facts, listen to real talk from real people, and find out where you can get tested and how to become involved. While you're there, don't forget to share your comments. I look forward to hearing from you and exchanging thoughts on how we are greater than AIDS.

Phill Wilson is President and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute.

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New California Cosmetic Law Named for Kanye West's Late-Mother

Lynette Holloway — 2010-02-06T23:00:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health, Fitness, Disease Prevention

Effective this month, patients seeking cosmetic surgery in California will have to undergo a physical exam thanks to a new law named for Kanye West's late-mother, who died a day after receiving cosmetic procedures, according to news reports.

The Donda West Law also requires written clearance from a doctor within 30 days before a patient receives elective cosmetic surgery, according to a CNN news report. West, 58, who received cosmetic procedures on her breasts and abdomen in Los Angeles, Calif., died on Nov. 10, 2007. The Los Angeles County autopsy report attributed her death to "coronary artery disease and multiple post-operative factors,'' not to surgical error, which was widely believed at the time.

But many surgeons interviewed by CNN about the new regulation expressed concern about its feasablity because much of what it calls for already is common practice among reputable surgeons. Most significant, a violation of the measure would not constitute a crime, major concern if a misstep leads to death.

It is not known whether West underwent specialized tests prior to her surgery, CNN writes, citing the autopsy report. But Dr. Jan Adams, the Beverly Hills plastic surgeon who operated on West, said she underwent several physicals and histories, though a family member disputes his claim.

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HPV Vaccine for Men and Boys, Too

Dr. Vanessa Cullins — 2010-02-05T16:07:00+00:00

Filed under: Sexual Health, Women's Health, Men's Health, Disease Prevention, Let's Talk About Sex

Heeey!

Just Out!!! Gardasil, the vaccine that protects girls and women from genital warts and cervical cancer has been approved for boys and men. Genital warts, cervical cancer, and some cancers of the penis, scrotum, anus, and throat are caused by certain types of human papilloma virus (HPV). While the vaccine may not protect boys and men against all HPV types that can cause these cancers, it does protect them against the two HPV types (types 6 and 11) that cause 90 percent of genital warts in the U.S.

These HPVs are sexually transmitted. Most people get them because they are easily passed by genital skin-to-skin contact. Actual sexual intercourse does not have to occur. Rubbing against each other while naked, mutual masturbation combined with embraces, sharing of sex toys, oral sex, anal sex, vaginal intercourse - you name it - if it involves skin-to-skin contact, HPV can be transmitted. This is why HPV is so common, and everyone should expect to get it unless vaccinated.

Just like for girls, the vaccine works best when given to boys before they are sexually active. And just like for women, it can be given to men who are already sexually active, since some young adults may have been exposed to some but not all of the HPV types the vaccine protects against. In these situations, the vaccine will protect young adults from those HPV types they do not already have.

The FDA has approved vaccination for girls, boys, women, and men and between the ages of nine and 26. So, if you are between nine and 26, the best course of action is to get vaccinated. And remember, sexual networks where sex occurs among circles of friends and acquaintances are common, even though you might not want to believe it. That means SPREAD THE WORD to all friends and acquaintances. Everyone ages nine to 26 should be vaccinated. It is the only way to stem the tide of HPV related disease in our community.

HPV vaccines are expensive - about $360 for the series of three injections. (You are not maximally protected until you have received all three injections.) If you have insurance, check to make sure it covers the vaccine. If you do not have insurance, your health care provider may be able to get the vaccine free for you through a patient assistance program. All major vaccine manufacturers have patient assistance programs. If your health care provider is unaware of this, guide her or him to the manufacturer's website or have her or him call the customer service number listed in the Physicians' Desk Reference - or ask your pharmacist for guidance.

Until next time, here's to your sexual health,

Vanessa

Vanessa Cullins, MD, MPH, MBA, is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist and vice president for medical affairs at Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

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Playtime before Lunchtime Could Help In The Battle Against Obesity

Lynette Holloway — 2010-01-30T16:06:00+00:00

Filed under: Mental Health, Fitness, Disease Prevention

A good romp around the playground before lunch could make all the difference in the health and behavior of schoolchildren, according to some education experts.

Schools that schedule recess before lunch report that students consume more fruits and vegetables and exhibit fewer behavioral problems, according to an article in The New York Times.

Kids are calmer after recess, a New Jersey principal told The Times. The principal went on to say that students feel less rushed and have more time to eat.

North Ranch Elementary in Scottsdale, Ariz. adopted the idea about nine years ago after a nurse suggested the change, the article says. By the end of the first year, visits to the nurse's office dropped by 40 percent.

The information comes at a time when officials, including First Lady Michelle Obama, are grappling with ways to battle childhood obesity. Nearly one-third of children in America are overweight or obese, and almost half of all African American and Latino children will eventually suffer from diabetes, Mrs. Obama said.
Last week, she unveiled a broad initiative to combat childhood obesity. The measure, which takes effect next months, includes increasing the number of "healthy schools,'' where children have access to more physical activity and nutritious diets.

"Many parents tell me that they want to prepare healthy food for their kids, but there aren't any supermarkets where they live that sell fresh produce,'' she said during a speech at the U.S Conference of Mayors in Washington, D.C., where she unveiled the initiative. "...They tell me they want their kids to be physically active, but their schools have cut gym and recess, and there've been cuts to sports and afterschool recreation programs too...Ultimately, it's going to take all of us...working together to help families make commonsense changes so our kids can get and stay healthy.''

Recess before lunch is a good effort in the fight against obesity, but the plan may be difficult to implement in urban districts, where it is most needed because lower-income children may start the day hungry, a medical expert pointed out in the article. These students may not have the energy to romp around the playground before lunch. Still, people are doing more than just talking about the problem. They are searching for solutions, which is more than what's been done in the past.

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Recall Of Johnson & Johnson Products Launches Investigation

Lynette Holloway — 2010-01-28T16:13:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health, Fitness, Disease Prevention

Before you reach for that bottle of Tylenol, Motrin or St. Joseph's aspirin, be sure to check the lot number.

Johnson & Johnson, the maker of the medications, recently issued a massive recall of the products because of a moldy odor that has caused people to become ill, according to some news reports.

It was the second recall in less than a month, a problem that was first reported to Johnson & Johnson's McNeil Consumer Healthcare Products in 2008. Now, the company is under scrutiny again from officials with the Food and Drug Administration who say the company failed to respond promptly to complaints, and was not thorough enough in its handling of the problem from the beginning.

"About 70 people have been either sickened by the odor - including nausea, stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhea - or noticed,'' The smell is caused by small amounts of a chemical associated with the treatment of wooden pallets, Johnson & Johnson said. The FDA said the chemical can leach into the air, and traced it to a facility in Las Piedras, Puerto Rico, the article said.

An official with the FDA criticized McNeil, saying when something smells bad, literally or figuratively, companies must aggressively investigate and take all necessary action,'' the article said. The company said it is working with the FDA to solve the problem.
A list of recalled products can be found at Johnson & Johnson McNeil Healthcare, which is based in New Brunswick, N.J.

Besides Tylenol, Motrin and St. Joseph's aspirin, other medications on the recall list include: some batches of regular and extra-strength Tylenol, children's Tylenol, eight-hour Tylenol, Tylenol arthritis, Tylenol PM, children's Motrin, Motrin IB, Benadryl, Simply Sleep, and Rolaids.

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Binge Eating Classified As New Medical Status

Lynette Holloway — 2010-01-20T20:31:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health, Diet & Nutrition, Fitness, Disease Prevention, Cancer

For years, binge eating, defined as "eating large amounts of food while feeling a loss of control over eating," lurked in the shadows of anorexia and bulimia as a sign of depression. It usually subsided with treatment of psychotropic medications.

But soon, it emerged from the shadows and became a category of its own, prompting the American Psychiatric Association to put the condition on its watch list in 1994, according to an article in The Morning Call.

As a result, an estimated one half of eating-disorder patients are now classified as binge eaters who do not purge, though they sometimes cross the line between bulimia and anorexia, the article says. About 78.9 percent struggle with depression, anxiety or substance addiction.

Recognizing it as a disorder would encourage insurers to pay for specialized treatment. It is good information for determining treatment in the AfricanAmerican community. African Americans have a 51 percent higher prevalence of obesity than whites, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Determining the cause of the problem could go a long way toward stemming the tide of obesity.

The health impact of obesity, likely caused by binge eating, is great. More than 80 percent of people with Type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese. People who are overweight are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure, which puts them at risk for heart disease and stroke. In 2007, African Americans were 50 percent less likely to engage in physical activity than other races. So, treating binge eating is important.

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First Lady Michelle Obama Vows to Fight Childhood Obesity

Lynette Holloway — 2010-01-20T17:19:00+00:00

Filed under: Diet & Nutrition, Fitness, Disease Prevention

First Lady Michelle Obama entered the political scrum a day after the Democrats were stripped of their 60-seat Senate supermajority, introducing an ambitious plan to help combat childhood obesity.

While Mrs. Obama's wide-ranging speech at the U.S. Conference of Mayors received muted media coverage because the spotlight was the stunning victory of Senator-elect Scott Brown in Massachusetts, it was no less remarkable.

Richard M. Daley, mayor of Mrs. Obama's hometown of Chicago and Joseph Riley, mayor of Charleston, S. C., attended the event along with 224 other mayors. The popular first lady, who returned to the political fray to push her husband's foundering health care bill, called childhood obesity an epidemic in America, saying it is one of the greatest threats to the American economy.

Indeed, nearly one-third of children in America are overweight or obese -- one in three, she emphasized. And a third of all children today will eventually suffer from diabetes -- in the African American and Latino communities, it skyrockets to almost half.

"If we continue on our current path,'' Obama said, "in 10 years, nearly 50 percent of all Americans will be obese -- not just overweight, but obese.''

She highlighted the ways in which obesity will tax government spending through obesity-related illnesses, including treatment for heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

To help combat the problem, she said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now offering grants to local health departments to pay for initiatives such as supporting restaurants that promote low-fat menus, supporting farmers to produce fresh fruit and vegetables in underserved area, and developing Web sites so residents can learn to lose weight. Some of these programs already are underway in such as Minnesota, Massachusetts and Oklahoma.

Other efforts include increasing the number of "healthy schools" where kids can have access to nutritious lunches, providing more opportunities for children to be physically active, and educating parents to make healthy food choices.

"In the end, I know that achieving all this won't be easy-and it won't be quick,'' she said. "This isn't the kind of problem that can be solved in one year, or even one Administration. But make no mistake about it, this problem can be solved.''

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Skin Lightening Creams Hot Sellers Despite Health Risks

Lynette Holloway — 2010-01-19T02:25:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health, Mental Health, Disease Prevention

The skin lightening cream business is booming despite its health risks, as women of African and Hispanic descent seek to lighten up their darker hues, a paradox that has plagued people of color seemingly since time immemorial.

Sammy Sosa, the former Chicago Cub, turned heads in November when he showed up at the Latin Grammy Awards ceremony considerably lighter. And a Brooklyn woman recently told The New York Times that she uses skin lightening creams "to be more accepted by society.'' Now, after applying the creams with names like Hyprogel and Fair & White, her skin became so thin that a touch would bruise her face. Her capillaries became visible, and she developed stubborn acne -- all side effects of the prescription-strength steroids in some of the creams, some of which she bought over the counter in beauty supply stores, the story says.

Herein lies the problem: a sociologist said in the article there is a clear connection between skin color and socioeconomic status. "There is prejudice against dark-skinned people, especially women in the so-called marriage market.''

The point was driven home recently with the revelation that Sen. Harry Reid, the Democratic majority leader, once predicted that Barack Obama could become the country's first black president because he is "light-skinned.''

Sen. Reid's comment was debated by political pundits near and far and was generally agreed upon. Still, people should not put their health at risk to change their natural born features, or buy into stereotypes. A doctor interviewed in the article said the creams ingredients could damage the nervous system.

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Will a Big Behind Help You Live Longer?

Lauren Williams — 2010-01-13T14:06:00+00:00

Filed under: Diet & Nutrition, Fitness, Disease Prevention

Sing it, Sir-Mix-A-Lot! The black community has long considered ample hips and behinds to be desirable features in women. Now, some members of the medical community are following suit. According to a recent Oxford University study, women with pear-shaped figures (larger hips, butts and thighs) are at a lower risk for heart disease and other metabolic diseases.

Oxford's Dr. Konstantinos Manopolous told BBC News that fat in the hips and butt absorbs "harmful fatty acids" and prevents arteries from clogging."

Take note: the "spare tire" around the middle is still not good.

"Fat around the hips and thighs is good for you," Manopolous said "but around the tummy is bad."

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Smart Phone Applications Help Dieters Lose Weight

Lynette Holloway — 2010-01-11T20:08:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health, Diet & Nutrition, Fitness, Disease Prevention

Smartphones help manage every facet of modern day life from organizing contacts to programming appointments to managing schedules. So why not add one of the most vexing problems in America to the list, weight management?

That is exactly what the makers of several weight loss applications did when they developed several free and low-priced smart phone applications to help dieters maximize their weight loss goals, according to 'The New York Times,' which tested several popular applications, including Lose It! (free, for the iPhone, Calorie Counter (free, on Android and Blackberry) and Calorie Tracker by Livestrong ($2.99 on iPhone, Blackberry and Android).

"Just as the early Internet practice screeched to a halt once everyone (well, almost everyone) came to their senses, this will too,'' the article says. "So if you are thinking of shedding a few pounds, it might make sense to load a couple of these programs onto your phone before you devour your next pig in a blanket.''

Here are the results:

Lose It! allows users to set goals and establish a daily caloric budget. It also includes a food journal to help users stay on track through diet and exercise programs. It also provides them with a food and exercise database for planning. Lose It! will be available for free during the first six months of its release this month, according to the Web site. It has received positive reviews from users.
Check out this comment: "I love the interface of this-simple, clean, and attractive,'' a user writes on the forum. "I was happy that they responded to my comment and added yoga and Pilates to their exercise list. Really good calorie-counting app!''

Calorie Counter provides users with a guide for calorie and nutrition information, a barcode scanner for nutrition labels, a food diary to record calories burned, a weight chart and a journal to record progress, according to the Web site. The application also comes with a ready-made support group on the site.

Here is what one user has to say: "Hello everyone, I'm new and I was wondering if anyone knew [how] we can edit our activity because I really messed up and I can't reset it at all. Other than that, this app is awesome.''

Calorie Tracker enables users to track their daily caloric intake based on their target weight goals. The database provides users with more than 525,000 food and restaurant items for nutritional information, including fat, sugar, carbohydrates, cholesterol and more. Also available are 2,000 exercises and a program that calculates the number of calories burned through them. Now, with a tap, users can track how many calories they consume, burn and net on a daily basis.

Not bad for a weighty issue!

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Are Generic Drugs Safe? Do Your Homework!

Lynette Holloway — 2010-01-11T19:25:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health, Disease Prevention

Do generics work the same as name brand drugs? That's the question patients, consumer advocates and health care officials are asking more and more as insurance companies peddle cheaper drugs as an alternatives to relatively more expensive brand names.

Lesley Alderman, in a recent health column for the 'New York Times' addressed the issue.

"I've recommended generics in this column many times and use them myself when possible,'' she writes. "But there is a gnawing concern among some doctors and researchers that certain prescription drugs may not work as well as their brand name counterparts. The problem is not pervasive, but it's something consumers should be aware of-especially now that more insurers insist that patients take generic medications when they are available.''

Patients have begun reaching out to consumer advocacy groups such as the Peoples Pharmacy to complain about side effects or the return of symptoms after being switched from a brand name drug to a generic, the article says quoting Joe Graedon, who has been writing about pharmaceuticals for three decades.

Graedon says in the article that he has been hearing complaints about generic forms of the antidepressant Wellbutrin XL 300 (known as Budeprion XL 300 in one generic form), the heart medicine Toprol XL (metoprolol succinate) and the antiseizure medicine Keppra (levetiracetam). He argues that generics and brand names are not identical.

But the Food and Drug Administration says generics are safe and effective and can be used with total confidence.
Here are some tips from a separate article by Alderman to help determine if your generic brand is working for you:

KEEP THE PACKAGING so you can research the drug at Drugs.com or RxList.com.

KEEP A DIARY of any side effects you may experience when taking a new drug. Generic drugs are allowed to contain different inactive ingredients from the brand drug - like flavors, fillers and dyes - which could potentially cause side effects.

BE CHOOSY. If one generic brand works better than another, shop around for it!

ENLIST YOUR DOCTOR if you are convinced that only the brand name works for you. He or she may be able to write a letter to the insurance company, which actually works sometimes.

REPORT PROBLEMS if you do have side effects or reactions to a specific drug, tell your doctor and then report it to the Food and Drug Administration's MedWatch Web site and post a message on the People's Pharmacy Web site.

Alderman says that if enough people complain about a specific medication, the F.D.A. or an independent group will investigate it.

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Can I Get Chlamydia from a Toilet Seat?

Dr. Vanessa Cullins — 2010-01-10T12:34:00+00:00

Filed under: Sexual Health, Women's Health, Let's Talk About Sex

Hi, it's me again!!!

It's great that we have a chance to touch base again about sex and maintaining health. A young woman I talked with recently wanted to know if people can get chlamydia from a toilet seat. Her boyfriend said that's the only way he could've gotten it.

Look, chlamydia is not passed through casual contact. You're not going to get it by shaking hands, hugging, kissing, sitting on a toilet seat, or using someone's fork or knife.

Chlamydia needs a warm body cavity like a vagina, or an anus, or a urethra - the tube in the penis that passes semen and urine, or a cervix - the mouth of the womb or uterus. You get chlamydia from having sex with someone who is already infected. If your partner has had more than one partner over the past several months, it will be difficult to determine who gave him the infection. The important thing is to make sure that you are tested for chlamydia and other sexually transmitted infections like HIV, gonorrhea, and trichomonas.

Even if you feel well, you should be tested for chlamydia because it often has no symptoms. Untreated chlamydia can cause sterility, chronic pelvic pain, and disabling arthritis in women and men if left untreated. Antibiotic treatment for chlamydia is easily available from your private physician or from health centers like your nearest Planned Parenthood.

If you have had other sex partners, they need to be tested also. If you were unaware that your partner has had or currently has other partners, now is definitely the time to let him know whether you are O.K. with this. If you are not O.K. with either of those situations, it's time to walk. One thing for sure, you should not have sex with him again until he's been treated. And you should be using a female condom or insist that he use a latex condom to protect yourself from infection.

There are more than 1.2 million cases of chlamydia every year in the U.S. More than half of them occur in our community. Black women aged 15-19 have the highest rates of infection. It's not that we have more sex than other people. It's that many women and men in our community lack access to medical care. Also, those diagnosed with chlamydia are often reluctant to tell their partner(s), which allows the disease to continue to spread. The only way to stop the spread is to treat everyone infected. This means your partner should be telling everyone he has had sex with in the past few months to get tested and treated.

Listen, if you're unable to have honest conversations with your partner or you're afraid of what such conversations may lead to (for example, violence), then it is time to walk. If you don't care whether your partner has other partners, then use a condom to stay healthy.

Another important piece of information, all sexually active people under age 26 need to be tested for chlamydia at least once a year - especially if they haven't used a condom every time. Older folks need to talk with their clinicians about their sex lives to decide whether they need to be tested.

Safer sex is clearly important to each of us as individuals. It shows the pride and care we have for our own bodies. But protecting ourselves is also important to our families and our community. It makes all of us stronger - together. And when it comes to helping each other get through this life, pride and strength are what it's all about.

Until next time, here's to your sexual health,

Vanessa

Vanessa Cullins, MD, MPH, MBA, is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist and vice president for medical affairs at Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

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Revolutionary New Option for Women Considering Breast Implants

Lynette Holloway — 2010-01-05T12:50:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health

Considering breast implants?

Now is the time, according to surgeons conducting a clinical trial for the Ideal Implant, a hybrid design, combining both silicone gel and saline. Participation in the 10-year trial gives enrollees a bonus -- a lump-sum payment to a trust fund that pays for the surgery in the long run.

"This is the first improvement in the basic design of the saline-filled breast implant since it was introduced over 30 years ago,'' Dr. Jay Calvert of Beverly Hills, Calif., one of the surgeons involved in the program, said in a prepared statement. "While other manufacturers have focused only on silicone gel, this breast implant company clearly listened to patients -- women who have clearly expressed their desire for an improved saline-filled breast implant.''

The new implant was developed after years of testing and contributions from women and plastic surgeons, according to a news release. Externally, it resembles a standard saline implant, but the edges have been lowered to meet the chest wall. Internally, it contains a series of additional shells that are nested together. Unlike older versions, the new structure is engineered to allow for movement of the saline, to reduce bouncing and to support the implant edges, which minimizes unattractive wrinkling often associated with standard implants.

"It's really designed to give mental comfort and peace of mind that [recipients of breast augmentation] don't have with silicone, which can rupture and disseminate into the lymph nodes and cause problems. This would just release salt water into the blood stream that is absorbed by the body. It looks natural and the patients are happy.''

Only plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons were selected to serve as investigators in the FDA-approved trial.

Although women in the enrolled in the trial do have to pay the estimated $7,500 for the surgery, they will receive a payment of $3,500 from Ideal Implant Incorporated. Based on historical market returns, the investment could increase to $12,000 over the life of the 10-year-study. The study allows for 500 participants of which 200 slots remain, Calvert said. For more information, consult the Ideal's Web site.

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Then & Now: From Itty Bitty to Busty

Have your favorite stars gotten a little plumping action in their plastic surgeon's office? They say photos don't lie...

Text by Angela Bronner Helm, Photo editor, Jyothy Karat

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The College Survival Guide

A Fridge
Regardless of whether you have a wonderful sized meal plan, your fridge may come in handy with leftovers or when you feel like stocking it with bottled drinks.

Computer
The convenience of a computer is essential when sending your kids off to college. Forget the hike to the computer lab across campus students need a computer in the comfort of their room. A printer comes in handy as well. Depending on whether your child plans to carry his laptop around campus, you might opt for a desk top since they're lighter on the pockets.

Snacks
You will surely survive with off of a meal plan but it doesn't hurt to stock up on snacks when you don't feel like leaving your dorm room. Bottled water, pop corn, cereal and Ramen noodles are all low budget snacks to stock up on. Just be weary of the freshman 15.

Things from home
Some college students suffer from homesickness the first year. It's best to surround yourself with things like photos of the family, pillows or even stuffed animals. Anything that reminds your child of home.

MP3 Player
With all the stress that comes from school and exams, sometimes it's nice to block out the chaos in your life and even your roommate with music. It's nearly impossible to find students walking to class who aren't jamming to tunes.

Budget
Students who enter college often come in at the ripening age of 18. A great time for credit cards. Parents beware, your child may end up ruining their credit at a young age

Alarm Clock
When you're in college you don't have the luxury of getting awaken by your parents. It's now your responsibility to get to class on time so alarm clocks are a must. But keep your roommate in mind. You shouldn't wake him up ever morning with a blow horn alarm.

Cleaning supplies
Now you don't necessarily need to bring in the rubber gloves, mop and gas mask but it doesn't hurt to bring along Clorox all purpose wipes for spills or dust. Vacuums and brooms come in handy too depending if you have a carpeted dorm.

Bedding
What most parents aren't aware of is that most college beds are twin sized but extra long and require special sheets. When shopping keep your eye open for sheets that clearly state 'extra long' or else your child may come up short.

Shower shoes
You really don't know what some people do in the shower these days. College showers are known to be creeping with germs so spare yourself the fungus and purchase flip flops for the shower. You'll thank us later!

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Dr. Ian Smith's 5 Ways to Shape Up in the New Year

Lynette Holloway — 2010-01-04T18:56:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health, Mental Health, Diet & Nutrition, Fitness, Disease Prevention

If getting in shape is at the top of your list of New Year's resolutions, here are a two words of advice: Start small.

In other words, do not attempt to run three miles on your first day if you haven't been out in years -- or ever. You won't be able to finish, will likely become discouraged and avoid going out again until this time next year! Instead, set an achievable goal such as walking. Pick a safe distance, say two to three miles, and get to stepping (only you know how far you can walk).

When you feel up to it, run for a stretch of time and walk for the rest. Walking also is a good form of exercise, no need to run. Just be sure to monitor your food intake so you can burn more calories a day than you eat.

Here are five more ways shape up for the New Year from 'The 4 Day Diet,' by Dr. Ian K. Smith:

1. Become a Mindful Eater
"Too many of us don't pay attention to what we're eating or how we're eating...we're indulging in mindless eating. ...Allowing yourself to focus on your food means a better appreciation for what and how much your putting inside your body. ''

2. Exercise
"The benefits of exercise are endless. You know that exercise burns calories, improves heart and lung function and prevents obesity. But exercise can also be instrumental when trying to avoid emotional eating.''

3. Eat the Right Foods
"If you simply must indulge in foods during times of emotional crisis, then at least reach for the foods that come with health benefits...raw vegetables, whole fruits, whole-grain breads and cereals, popcorn without butter.''

4. Control Your Environment
"If the unhealthy food isn't there, you can't eat it. Why tempt yourself unnecessarily? Clean out your cabinets and refrigerator and toss the chocolates, chips, sodas and ice cream so that even though you may want to turn to these foods for comfort when you are facing an emotional crisis, they won't be available.''

5. Small Substitutions Can Make a Big Difference
"While successful dieting is definitely more than just counting calories, saving them wherever you can give you an advantage. What you slather on your sandwich, drizzle over your salad can make the difference -- a couple of hundred calories' worth."

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Stay Healthy in the New Year and Beyond

Lynette Holloway — 2009-12-31T09:28:00+00:00

Filed under: Women's Health, Men's Health, Mental Health, Diet & Nutrition, Fitness, Disease Prevention

With the winter season in full swing, it's hard to stay healthy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has some tips to help keep you healthy during the cold months and beyond:

1. Wash your hands often to keep avoid spreading germs and getting sick.

2. Bundle up to stay dry and warm.

3. Manage stress. Don't overcommit yourself, and keep holiday spending in check.

4. Don't drink and drive or let others drink and drive.

5. Be smoke-free. Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke.

6. Fasten seat belts while driving or riding in a motor vehicle. Always buckle your child in the car using a child safety seat, booster seat or seat belt according to his/her height, weight and age.

7. Monitor children. Keep potentially dangerous toys, food, drinks, household items and other objects out of kids' reach. Make sure toys are used properly.

8. Practice fire safety. Most residential fires occur during the winter months, so be careful to never leave fireplaces, space heaters, stoves or candles unattended. Have an emergency plan, and practice it regularly.

9. Prepare food safely. Remember these simple steps: wash hands and surfaces often, avoid cross-contamination, cook foods to proper temperatures and refrigerate promptly.

10. Eat healthy, and get moving. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Limit your portion sizes and foods high in fat and sugar. Be active for at least two and a half hours a week and help kids and teens be active for at least one hour a day.

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