Health Advocacy Archives

Consequences of Pharmacy Closures in Underserved Communities

Posted on October 27, 2023October 27, 2023

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today, I want to discuss the consequences of pharmacy closures in underserved communities. It’s impossible to ignore the distressing trend in our health care landscape. A rising number of pharmacy closures, especially in underserved communities. I recently delved into this significant issue with Anne-Marie Green on CBS News. It’s clear that the implications of these closures go far beyond mere inconvenience.

For many years, major drugstore chains like Rite Aid, CVS, and Walgreens have been pillars in numerous neighborhoods, offering a vast range of essential health services. Now, as they begin to close down, the resulting implications are profound and deeply concerning, particularly for communities already struggling with limited health care access and basic services.

The Disproportionate Impact on Communities of Color

During my recent CBS interview, I highlighted that these pharmacy closures aren’t happening uniformly across regions. Disadvantaged communities of color are disproportionately affected. Deprived of access to crucial medications, essential items, and basic health screenings, these communities face a heightened risk of health disparities.

The Growing Phenomenon of “Pharmacy Deserts”

“Pharmacy Deserts” has become a common term for areas without access to a local pharmacy. This problem is eerily reminiscent of the well-known challenge of food deserts, where many communities lack grocery stores that offer healthy foods. In my experience, there’s a clear overlap between these two challenges, especially in communities of color and rural locales. When you combine the absence of healthy food with a lack of essential medications, you end up with a silent yet burgeoning health crisis. Of course that is what these pharmacy closures are doing. They are hurting health care access.

The Broad-ranging Effects on Health Services

Pharmacies offer so much more than merely prescription medications. They provide critical health services like blood pressure monitors, over the counter medicine, and vital check-ins such as COVID tests and vaccinations during the pandemic’s height. As these pharmacy closures continue, we’re watching essential health care touch points vanish, which makes achieving optimal health even more daunting for many.

Throughout my practice, I’ve always regarded the local pharmacy as a vital partner in ensuring patient care. The diminishing presence of these pharmacies, driven by an array of factors, including industry shifts and economic challenges, is directly impacting patient care in ways many might not immediately recognize.

Conclusion

The broader issue here is not just about pharmacy closures or businesses shutting their doors. This crisis affects the health, well-being, and very essence of entire communities. The increasing chasm of health inequities is gravely concerning. Of course tackling this challenge demands combined efforts from all stakeholders.

This topic deserves deeper scrutiny. I hope we can keep these issues at the forefront of conversation and continue to push towards actionable solutions. Of course in hopes that we can resolve these challenges with health care access.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Check out this video from Dr. Curry-Winchell @ Dr_BCW to learn more about the consequences of pharmacy closures in underserved communities.

New Menopause Studies

Posted on August 13, 2023

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today I want to talk about some new Menopause studies and the insights they are providing about the impacts of Menopause on Black women in America. But first let’s talk about Menopause in general.

Menopause: Embracing Change and Wellness

Let’s dive into a topic that impacts countless individuals: Menopause. This natural phase initiates as hormones like estrogen undergo a significant decline. In medical terms, Menopause isn’t officially recognized until a year elapses between menstrual cycles.

Understanding the Symptoms

Common symptoms of Menopause encompass weight gain, fatigue, hot flashes, memory issues, sleep disruptions, mood changes, and discomfort during intercourse. Interestingly, some patients perceive the loss of their period as a part of their identity. Remember that everyone experiences health changes differently, so you may not experience any symptoms at all.
While it typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, it can vary due to factors such as family history, surgeries, and health conditions. Also there are also some medications that could cause an early onset of Menopause. However, what are new Menopause Studies saying?

Diversity in Experience

Interestingly, new Menopause studies indicate Black women experience Menopause approximately 8.5 months earlier than White women. While it’s not completely understood why at this time, it is believed that social determinants and systemic racism in certain healthcare practices could be a contributing factors.

Health Implications

Menopause carries far-reaching health implications, including an elevated risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Of course, osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, potentially leading to an increased risk of bone fractures.

Navigating Solutions

Various treatment paths exist for Menopause, including hormone replacement therapy, a menopause-conscious diet, and self-care routines. However, each choice accompanies potential risks, especially hormone replacement therapy. It is always recommended to consult your healthcare provider before embarking on a new treatment, particularly in the case of something as impactful as Menopause. Of course they may also have updates from new Menopause studies that could be helpful as well.

Empowerment Through Support

Remember, you’re not alone in your Menopause journey. Advocating for your well-being and seeking medical assistance when necessary is key. In closing, talk with your family and friends about Menopause. Open discussions can help those who might be too embarrassed to ask for help find the support they need.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

To see what Dr. Curry-Winchell had to say about new Menopause Studies on Beyond Clinical Walls check out.

Voting Impacts Health?

Posted on August 6, 2023August 6, 2023

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today, let’s delve into a topic often underestimated in its impact on our well-being: voting. Some of you are thinking, “Voting impacts health?” According to the CDC as much as 80% of our health is shaped by “social determinants of health”? These are often directly impacted by local and federal laws, health policies, minimum wages, and environmental protections that directly impact health outcomes. This is why voter registration is so important.
https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2021/20_0569.htm

Your Vote, Your Health: Unveiling the Impact

Voting isn’t merely about selecting representatives. It is also about endorsing policies that greatly influence our collective and individual well-being. It’s about standing up for a healthier, more equitable environment that benefits everyone. Your vote can impact the health of your community through influence on social programs, environmental issues, and health regulations. Do not underestimate the power these factors have on your health and the health of your community. Also, The American Medical Association underscores the profound link between voting and health, recognizing that “voting is a social determinant of health and significantly contributes to the analyses of other social determinants of health.”
https://policysearch.ama-assn.org/policyfinder/detail/voting?uri=%2FAMADoc%2FHOD.xml-h-440.805.xml

Barriers and Disparities

Sadly, certain communities face barriers to voting. For instance, communities of color, young people, rural residents, and disabled Americans often encounter obstacles that hamper their access to the voting process. Of course, these very same groups are often disproportionately affected by health disparities. To help improve health equity, we need to enable those facing barriers to use their vote to express their wishes.

The Power of Change

One group working to help underrepresented individuals vote is Vot-ER (https://vot-er.org). Vote-ER is a nonprofit on a mission for nonpartisan civic engagement within healthcare settings. Founded by Dr. Alister Martin, an emergency room physician. Vot-ER empowers healthcare professionals, clinical students, and medical institutions to champion voter registration and civic participation among patients and local communities. The National Voter Registration Act of 1993, which empowered the DMV, also grants hospitals the authority to conduct nonpartisan voter registration. Like voter registration at the DMV, healthcare settings possess a unique platform to promote civic engagement. By donning a simple badge, healthcare providers signify their readiness to assist patients with voter registration right in the hospital or clinic.

Your Role

Above all, incorporating nonpartisan voter registration and education into healthcare settings enables patients to participate actively in their civic responsibilities, ultimately influencing health-oriented policies. Voter readiness isn’t a sporadic effort tied to high-profile elections; it’s an ongoing commitment. If you’re a medical provider, social worker, or student in the health field, I invite you to join me in this movement. Obtain your free badge at https://vot-er.org/badge.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional or a patient, your voice matters. Take a moment now to register to vote or verify your voter registration status by visiting: https://drbcw.com/vote

Closing

In conclusion, we can forge healthier communities through a more vibrant democracy. Let’s channel the power of voting to shape a better future for ourselves and future generations. Above all, let’s make a lasting impact on our health and our future through voting.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Check out Dr. Curry-Winchell’s Beyond Clinical Walls video on this subject:

Cardiac Arrest and CPR

Posted on July 30, 2023

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today I want to discuss a critical condition, Cardiac Arrest, and the emergency treatment, CPR, that can be lifesaving. Cardiac arrest has been in heavy news rotation due to LeBron James’ son, Bronny James’ recent episode with cardiac arrest.

What is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly loses its ability to function, leading to a halt in blood circulation throughout the body. This can cause a person to gasp for air, lose consciousness, or stop breathing.

During a cardiac arrest, immediate action is crucial. Performing CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) or using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be lifesaving by helping the heart re-establish a rhythm or heartbeat.

How do you perform CPR?

The American Heart Association recommends placing two hands, one on top of the other, centered on the chest, with shoulders directly over your hands and locked elbows. Perform chest compressions of at least two inches deep on each push at 100 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to return to normal after each compression.

A common question is whether rescue breaths should be given. Rescue breaths involve giving oxygen directly when someone can’t breathe on their own. The answer is “Yes.” The American Heart Association recommends rescue breathing with compressions.
Visit here for more: https://cpr.heart.org/

Is CPR Effective?

CPR can double or even triple the survival rates for individuals experiencing cardiac arrest. Studies have shown that the sooner CPR is performed, the better the chances of survival and the fewer complications survivors experience.

Sadly, a recent nationwide study by the American College of Cardiology found that Black and Hispanic individuals were 41% less likely than white individuals to receive CPR when suffering cardiac arrest in public. Moreover, Blacks and Hispanics were 26% less likely to receive CPR when cardiac arrest occurred at home.
Fro more please visit: https://www.acc.org/About-ACC/Press-Releases/2022/03/23/17/31/Racial-Minorities-Are-Less-Likely-to-Receive-CPR-When-They-Need-It

This disparity in access to CPR is concerning and emphasizes the importance of everyone learning the procedure. By knowing CPR, you hold the power to save someone’s life. You never know when you might find yourself in a situation where CPR could make a lifesaving difference for someone in need.

Conclusion

If you have the opportunity, please take the time to learn CPR. It could be the most valuable skill you acquire and might make a life-or-death difference in the future, it helped save an unsuspecting Bronny James and it could it very well save someone you love as well.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Check out Dr. Curry-Winchell’s Beyond Clinical Walls video on this subject:

Black Mothers Dying

Posted on June 29, 2023June 29, 2023

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW for short. I am thrilled to share insights from my recent TEDx talk on Black Maternal Mortality with you. In this talk I cover a topic that has gotten some recent press, Black Mothers Dying. I shed light on the persistent issue of race-based medical practices and unconscious bias within our healthcare system and its real impact on black health. Specifically the life expectancy of black mothers. If you want to see more you can also check out my recent BBC interview which aired shortly before my TEDx talk was released.

Real-Life Stories:

During my TEDx talk, I wanted to urge the audience to grasp the gravity of the situation. I began by recounting the near-death experience of Serena Williams, a world-renowned athlete and champion. Serena’s terrifying encounter during childbirth highlights that even individuals with access to the best healthcare are not exempt from the dangers black mothers face during pregnancy. When disparities in black health are discussed, the argument inevitably falls to “lack of access.” Still, for maternal mortality, this is not the case. Affluent Black Mothers are dying 3x the rate compared to white women despite access to the best healthcare.

Unconscious Bias:

Unconscious bias is an invisible force that affects everyone. It affects our perceptions and decisions without us even realizing it. I shared a personal story from my experience as a patient and mother. My concerns were dismissed due to unconscious bias. If not for my personal relationships in medicine and the help of my husband, these dismissals could have cost me my life. Even though unconscious bias affects everyone, when the results of unconscious bias severely negatively impacts one group, it is something we must address. With Black Mothers dying at a 3x rate compared to other races this shows real negative impacts.

Invisible Pain:

One persistent stereotype that took hold many years ago was the thought that individuals with black skin feel less pain. I delved into the dark history of medical experimentation on enslaved black women, where pain medication was withheld under this false belief. And, of course, sadly, this bias persists today, as research shows that healthcare providers may struggle to recognize pain in black patients. Other studies have shown that many medical students believe black patients have thicker skin and feel less pain. This incorrect belief and subsequent disparity in pain management puts lives at risk and calls for immediate action.

Race-Based Medical Practices:

A significant issue I called out in my TEDx talk was the flawed VBAC scoring system. The original VBAC pushed risky medical procedures on specific racial and ethnic groups while pushing others towards safer natural births. I emphasized that race is a social construct and should not determine medical decisions. While progress has been made with revising the VBAC, I highlighted the need for continued change. I urged healthcare providers to advocate for updated policies and comprehensive training. Addressing race based medicine will help reduce black mothers dying during child birth.

Taking Action Together:

I ask everyone, healthcare providers and patients, to be agents of change. I called upon my fellow healthcare professionals to educate themselves about the fallacy of race-based medicine and to actively challenge these practices within their institutions. To patients, I stressed the importance of speaking up when witnessing racial inequities and engaging in self-reflection to confront our own biases. If we all look at our own biases we can overcome Black Mothers dying 3x and so much more.

Conclusion:

This TEDx talk on Black Maternal Mortality was incredibly emotional for me. I shared a very personal story from my life. I share my passion and commitment to addressing race-based medical practices and unconscious bias. My hope is that by shedding light on these issues that result in Black Mothers dying more than any other race, we can create a healthcare system that is equitable for every individual, regardless of race or ethnicity.

Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.

-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Vaping: Beyond Harmless Water Vapor

Posted on June 7, 2023June 2, 2023

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell or Dr. BCW. I recently partnered with the Nevada Cancer Coalition to discuss the dangers vaping poses to young people. In recent years, e-cigarettes or vape pens have gained popularity among young adults as a safer alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes. However, it is crucial to understand that vaping poses significant risks to the health of young individuals, particularly those under 25. Contrary to popular belief, e-cigarettes do not merely emit harmless water vapor. In this blog post, we will explore the potential dangers of vaping and shed light on the importance of raising awareness about these risks.

The Reality of Vaping

E-cigarettes produce an aerosol, commonly mistaken for water vapor, that can contain harmful chemicals found in the e-juice used to fuel them. When inhaled, these aerosols enter the lungs, similar to traditional tobacco cigarettes, and like combustible cigarette smoke, this aerosol is also exhaled into the surrounding environment. This exhaled aerosol can pose a potential danger to those nearby, making passive exposure a cause for concern.

Nicotine and Its Impact

One of the most common concerns associated with vaping is the presence of nicotine. Nicotine, when inhaled, can disrupt the development of both the lungs and the brain, particularly in individuals under the age of 25. Young adults are still in a critical stage of growth and development, and exposing their developing bodies to nicotine can have long-lasting effects. It is important to realize the dangers of vaping extend beyond addiction; they can affect overall health and well-being.

Unintended Consequences of Flavoring

Flavored e-juices are extremely popular among e-cigarette users, with approximately 85% opting for flavored options. However, these flavors were not designed to be inhaled and may pose serious health risks. Artificial flavors used in e-cigarettes have been linked to the development of lung diseases. Shockingly, these flavors can contain dangerous chemicals such as benzene and heavy metals like nickel, tin, and lead. The inhalation of these substances can have severe consequences on respiratory health.

Taking Proactive Steps

Young adults must understand the risks to their health and the health of those around them. Recognizing that there is no safe use of e-cigarettes among youth, especially between the ages of 10 and 25, is the first step toward informed decision-making. By understanding the dangers of vaping, young individuals can make more informed choices about their well-being.

Conclusion

Vaping is not the harmless activity it is often portrayed to be. The risks associated with e-cigarettes extend far beyond harmless water vapor. The aerosol produced by these devices contains harmful chemicals, which, when inhaled, can disrupt the development of the lungs and the brain in young adults. Moreover, while enticing, the flavors used in e-cigarettes can introduce dangerous substances into the respiratory system.

For more information on this topic, please visit HealthyLungsNV.org or these other sources.

Remember, your health matters.

Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Maternal Mortality – Health with Attitude

Posted on May 26, 2023May 14, 2023

Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, participates in a regular segment with Eugene L. Green called Health With Attitude. In the most recent installment, Dr. BCW talks with Eugene on Mother’s Day about Maternal Mortality in Black Mother’s. There are serious disparities between black mothers and white mothers when it comes to death during pregnancy and it is something that needs to be addressed and taken seriously as it is literally killing mothers.

Dr. Curry-Winchell also recently did a blog on this topic as well. Find that here – https://drbcw.com/maternal-mortality-in-black-women/

Check out this important video that highlights a serious equity issue that is terrorizing the black community.

Remember, to subscribe to Beyond Clinical Walls. It really helps the channel and it helps Dr. BCW continue to provide helpful informations on health topics, health literacy and health inequity . Thank you so much for your support – Dr. Curry-Winchell

Danger of Supplements

Posted on May 23, 2023May 7, 2023

Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell’s, health series Beyond Clinical Walls, talks about the danger of supplements after a recent study that found dangerously high levels of Melatonin in some gummy supplements.

In this episode of Beyond Clinical Walls, Dr. Curry-Winchell M.D., aka Dr. BCW, talks about a recent study that found dangerously high levels of Melatonin in some gummy supplements that were reviewed. With some gummies having over 300% the recorded amount of Melatonin and some having zero Melatonin. And some had substances that were not even recorded on the label at all. It is important to be very mindful about vitamin and hormonal supplements you take. Some can have negative impacts on your health. Since there are no regulations regarding the manufacturing, distribution or marketing of supplements you also never know what you are actually getting. To learn more about the danger of supplements, check out this video to learn more. Make sure and check out this episode to learn more.

Remember, to subscribe to Beyond Clinical Walls. It really helps the channel. It also helps Dr. BCW continue to provide helpful informations on health topics, health literacy and health inequity . Thank you so much for your support – Dr. Curry-Winchell

No Menthol Sunday

Posted on May 20, 2023

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, Dr. BCW, and today, let’s talk about No Menthol Sunday. No Menthol Sunday is an important initiative that aims at addressing the issue of menthol cigarettes and their impact on Black communities. Let’s delve into this topic and shed light on menthol.

The Influence of Menthol Marketing

Menthol is a minty flavor added to tobacco products, enticing younger individuals to start smoking and making it more challenging for them to quit. Shockingly, research reveals that 85% of Black smokers prefer menthol cigarettes, while only 30% of White smokers do. This is not an accident. This results from decades of targeted marketing efforts by the tobacco industry in Black communities.

The Role of the Tobacco Industry

The tobacco industry has invested heavily in advertising menthol products in Black publications and communities for years. This deliberate strategy has perpetuated the disproportionate prevalence of menthol cigarette use among Black smokers. By specifically targeting these communities, the tobacco industry has contributed to the disparities in health outcomes Black individuals face.

The Difficulty in Quitting Menthol

Studies have shown that quitting menthol cigarettes is more challenging than quitting tobacco without this flavor. The menthol’s cooling sensation can create a soothing effect, making it harder for individuals to break free from the addiction. Consequently, many Black smokers find it especially difficult to quit smoking.

The Impact on Health and Quality of Life

More than 16 million Americans currently live with smoking-related diseases. Black smokers, in particular, experience a higher burden of smoking-related health issues, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic cough, and recurring lung infections. These symptoms disrupt their ability to engage in daily activities and enjoy life fully.

No Menthol Sunday and Taking Action

No Menthol Sunday is an important initiative to raise awareness about the impact of menthol cigarettes and support Black communities in overcoming this challenge. By educating individuals about the harmful effects of menthol and providing resources for quitting, this campaign seeks to empower Black smokers to make healthier choices and improve their overall well-being.

Getting Involved

I highly recommend watching “Black Lives / Black Lungs” by Lincoln Mondy on YouTube (link here). This eye-opening video sheds light on the intersection of race, tobacco marketing, and the impact on Black lives. To learn more about “No Menthol Sunday” and the organization responsible for establishing it, The Center for Black Health and Equity, please visit their websites. By supporting these organizations and spreading awareness about the impact of menthol cigarettes, we can help reduce health disparities and promote healthier communities.

Conclusion

The impact of menthol cigarettes on Black communities is a pressing issue that requires our attention. We can make a difference by supporting initiatives like “No Menthol Sunday” and promoting health equity for all. Stay informed, take action, and remember your health matters.

– Dr. BCW (Dr. Curry-Winchell)

Black People and Skin Cancer

Posted on May 19, 2023May 6, 2023

Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell’s, health series Beyond Clinical Walls, talks about black people, skin cancer and sunburns and some myths associated. Before you go out and enjoy the sun or have your next doctor visit make sure and educate yourself on the truth behind these topics.

In this episode of Beyond Clinical Walls, Dr. Curry-Winchell M.D., aka Dr. BCW, talks about sunburns, skin cancer and having dark skin. Often there are myths surrounding people of color and things like sunburns and melanoma. Many people believe that people of color cannot get sunburns. And many believe that people of color cannot get melanoma. These are both untrue, common misconceptions that can lead to major health disparities for people of color. Make sure to learn more about the true nature black people, skin cancer and sunburns check out Dr. BCWs quick video on the topic, you might find that some of your long held believes are not 100% correct. Make sure and check out this episode to learn more.