Category: Health Tips & Health Literacy

Addressing Healthcare Disparities in Children of Color

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, or Dr. BCW for short; I recently discussed addressing healthcare disparities in children of color with NBC News. After that conversation, I wanted to take the time to discuss these disparities in a little more detail. There have been a couple of new studies that have once again exposed these long-existing issues. For some, these might be new ideas, but for many, these unsettling realities are all to understood.

Understanding the Disparities

According to new research, children of color receive lower-quality healthcare compared to their white counterparts. This inequality manifests in various ways, including LESS frequent use of diagnostic imaging and pain medication, longer ER wait times, and higher rates of complications during and after surgery. If you are interested in reading about these you can visit these websites:

Root Causes of These Disparities

The reasons behind these disparities are complex, involving socioeconomic factors, geographical limitations, and underfunding in hospitals serving communities of color. Additionally, medical mistrust and bias play significant roles in perpetuating these inequities. Black Americans have faced these issues for a long time. Many of the biases we face are rooted in mis-held beliefs from generations past, that have continued to get propagated through societal norms, institutional practices, oral and written histories, and just our general culture. This is why many people to this day believe that black people have thicker skin or feel less pain. And it is these believes that lead to mistreatment like inadequate pain management from doctors.

Empowering Parents and Caregivers

As a parent or caregiver, it’s essential to actively advocate for your child’s health. Ensure that healthcare providers are accessible and willing to address your concerns promptly. It’s ok to ask direct questions about the diagnosis process and understand the rationale behind the treatment plan. In fact its a critical part of maintaining a healthy dialog with the provider to make sure you are heard. This approach not only empowers you with knowledge but also helps in determining if your healthcare provider is culturally competent and truly listening to your concerns.

Bridging the Gap

Closing this gap requires a collective effort. Health education and literacy are key. Understanding what quality healthcare should look like and knowing the right questions to ask can make a substantial difference. Also, acknowledging the data showing disproportionate disease rates in specific groups is critical in justifying and highlighting the ongoing issue. Finally we need to all acknowledge that bias, both conscious and unconscious are real influences on our behaviors and that these influences are having a detrimental impact on non-white people in the US. We need to get past the misconception of “I don’t see color” acknowledge that we all do and look at ourselves and those around us and think about what those observations are doing to our decision making.

Continuous Advocacy

I urge parents to persistently seek the best care possible. If the care received doesn’t meet your expectations or needs, don’t hesitate to explore other options. Remember, your health and that of your family is invaluable, and you have the right to the highest quality of care.

In closing, I thank NBC News for the highlighting this this vital issue. As we continue to work towards eliminating these disparities, remember to advocate for and prioritize your family’s health.

Stay informed and prioritize your health! – Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

To see the Dr. BCW / Dr. Curry-Winchell interview on Addressing Healthcare Disparities in Children of Color: visit this link

Reduce Heart Attack Risk

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today, I want to talk about a crucial topic that affects many of us: reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. A new study has shed light on how a specific program is making a difference without significantly increasing healthcare costs.

Understanding the Risk Reduction Program

A recent study published in JAMA highlights the Million Hearts Cardiovascular Disease Risk Reduction Model. This initiative, launched by the US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in 2017, pays healthcare organizations to track and manage cardiac risks in Medicare patients. The program focuses on key risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, smoking status, and diabetes.

Promising Results

The latest research involving over 130,000 participants (excluding the control group) shows a 0.3% reduction in first-time stroke and heart attack risks over five years. Interestingly, this initiative only increased Medicare spending by an average of $2.11 per recipient, indicating a cost-effective approach to managing heart health.

Importance for Diverse Populations

One notable aspect of this study is the higher percentage of Black participants identified as medium or high risk. Of course this is not always the case. As a healthcare professional, I believe that addressing this requires a combination of effective risk reduction models and community outreach. It’s about enhancing health literacy and ensuring that individuals feel comfortable discussing their health concerns.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite these positive developments, we face challenges, such as data accuracy and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare delivery. Further research and refinement of these models are essential to maximize their effectiveness.

Final Thoughts

The Million Hearts Model’s success in reducing cardiac risks is a step forward in our fight against heart disease. It’s vital for healthcare providers to continue exploring and improving these models, making heart health a priority for all, especially in underserved communities.

Remember, heart health is crucial at every stage of life.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Gestational Diabetes

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell. Today, I want to discuss a significant health issue that often goes undiscussed. Gestational diabetes, especially as it pertains to the Black maternal health crisis in the United States.

In honor of National Diabetes Month and the current Maternal Health crisis I partnered with She Knows to highlight this growing concern. You can find my article from She Knows HERE

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a condition that can develop during pregnancy. It is usually diagnosed through screening between the 24th and 28th weeks. The exact cause is not fully understood, it’s thought to be linked to hormonal changes in pregnancy. Symptoms can be subtle, such as increased thirst and frequent urination, or non-existent, making it a potentially silent threat.

The condition not only affects mothers by increasing the likelihood of complications like premature birth and cesarean sections, but it also impacts infants, who may face respiratory difficulties, future obesity, and a higher diabetes risk later in life.

The Impact on Black Maternal Health

Alarmingly, gestational diabetes is a gateway to type 2 diabetes postpartum. Research shows that Black women are disproportionately diagnosed with type 2 diabetes following gestational diabetes, this disparity could be due to a lack of consistent screenings post-childbirth, as symptoms may be mistakenly attributed to typical postpartum recovery.

Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition where the pancreas either doesn’t produce enough insulin or the body becomes insulin resistant. This can lead to severe health issues, including vision loss, nerve damage, and increased risk of kidney and heart diseases — conditions that already have a higher mortality rate among Black individuals.

The Importance of Advocacy and Screening

Advocacy is crucial in addressing this health crisis. The healthcare system’s systemic racism and unconscious biases often lead to the dismissal of Black women’s pain and concerns. I speak from personal experience. As a physician within the healthcare system, I encountered life-threatening challenges during my childbirth due to my pain being overlooked.

For those diagnosed with gestational diabetes, it’s critical to request diabetes screenings after giving birth. As healthcare providers, we must confront unconscious biases and eradicate race-based medicine to improve health outcomes for all mothers and children.

In conclusion, while gestational diabetes is a complex condition with profound implications for maternal health, awareness and proactive management can lead to better outcomes. Help spread awareness, share this article with loved ones and those that can benefit from the information. Increased health literacy gives everyone a better opportunity to advocate for their own health. Greater awareness helps bring light to disparities and of course helps bring change.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Banned Foods

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today, I want to discuss banned foods. There are some popular candies and snacks available in the US that might not make it to the shelves of other countries. As Halloween approaches, it’s essential to know why certain foods, especially our favorite treats, are banned elsewhere.

Recently, a startling trend has emerged. Many US foods have been banned from international shelves due to additives such as brominated vegetable oil (BVO), potassium bromate, propylparaben, and the infamous red dye No. 3.

Why Are These Additives a Concern?

BVO

Predominantly found in certain sodas, BVO is associated with skin irritations. Long-term exposure has been linked to headaches, memory loss, and even reproductive issues. Discontinued by giants like Coke and Pepsi, years ago, it remains prevalent in smaller brands. Notably, as of October 2023, California has banned foods containing BVO, with New York considering a similar move.

Potassium Bromate

This chemical, primarily used in baked goods to improve texture, has been flagged as a potential carcinogen. Its usage has led to bans in several countries, including the UK, Canada, and the EU. California goes a step further by mandating warning labels on foods containing it.

Propylparaben

Propylparaben is an anti-fungal, anti-microbial agent. It is used in everything from cosmetics to lotions to foods and baked goods. Alarmingly, it’s been linked to reproductive health issues in both genders.

Red Dye No. 3

Red Dye No. 3 is a common ingredient in both cosmetics and foods. In fact, it is estimated to be in over 3,000 foods. This dye was banned from lipsticks in the ’90s due to cancer risks. A recent Californian study also linked it to behavioral problems, leading brands like Peeps to discontinue its use by 2024.

While the thrill of Halloween centers around spooky costumes and candy hauls, it’s crucial to be aware of what we’re consuming. Of course, many of us have grown up eating these additives without immediate harm, continual exposure might be detrimental.

In conclusion, as you indulge in the Halloween festivities, remember to make informed choices for both you and your family.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Stress – Understanding and Managing

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, aka Dr. BCW. Today I want to talk about stress – understanding it and managing it. Stress is a ubiquitous presence in our lives and a common topic in health forums. Stress manifests diversely for each individual, depending on various factors, situations, and durations. It can evoke emotions like unease, anxiety, and helplessness, which can interfere with our sleep, appetite, energy levels and our life in general.

The Biological Impact

Extended exposure to stress activates our body’s fight or flight system— the autonomic nervous system— releasing an overabundance of stress hormones like cortisol. This constant exposure disrupts nearly all of the body’s processes and paves the way for an array of mental and physical health issues like anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and even difficulties with memory and concentration.

Acknowledging Stress

It’s important to acknowledge the stressors in our lives and identify the sources. Recognizing the feelings of stress is the first step towards investing in the holistic health of our mind and body. Simple actions like taking a break from social media, reading a book, or indulging in enjoyable activities can help alleviate stress, even if momentarily.

The Value of Self-Investment

Investing time in activities that bring joy can uplift your mood and significantly reduce overall stress. It’s crucial to discover joy in the daily nuances of life and to prioritize self-care and balanced living. Regular exercise, nutritious meals, and maintaining a balance in social engagements are pivotal in managing stress and enhancing mental well-being.

Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is crucial to mental and physical well-being, and its deficiency is linked to irritability, focus problems, and increased risks of mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Thus, it’s vital to prioritize sleep to maintain a healthy balance between the mind and body.

Seeking Help is a Strength

If stress becomes overwhelming, seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness but rather a strength. Reach out to organizations like the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for guidance, support, and personalized strategies. Managing stress and mental health is a continual journey, so be patient, allow growth, and continually monitor your mental state.

Conclusion

Remember, managing stress effectively enables you to navigate life’s challenges more smoothly. There isn’t a universal solution for managing stress, as everyone’s needs and situations are different. It’s crucial to explore different stress management techniques and mental wellness strategies and see what works best for you.

Remember to invest in yourself, maintain a balanced lifestyle, connect with others, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. With self-patience and consistent effort, cultivating mental resilience becomes an attainable goal, allowing you to face life’s uncertainties with a balanced mind.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

 

Check out this video from Dr. Curry-Winchell @ Beyond Clinical Walls to learn more:

 

New Menopause Studies

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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?

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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

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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:

Uterine Fibroids

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Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, Dr. BCW; today, I want to shed light on a significant health issue that can affect women of all ages: uterine fibroids.

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. These growths are also known as leiomyomas or myomas. Uterine fibroids can vary in size, ranging from tiny, undetectable nodules to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus.

Symptoms:

The presence and severity of symptoms can vary among women with uterine fibroids. Some may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have one or more of the following:

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Lower back pain
  • Frequent urination
  • Difficulty emptying the bladder
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Abdominal bloating or swelling

Causes and Risk Factors:

We do not fully understand the exact cause of uterine fibroids. Hormonal factors, particularly estrogen, and progesterone, play a role in their growth. Furthermore it is also believed that genetics also plays role. Some risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing fibroids include:

  • Family history: If your mother, sister, or grandmother had fibroids, your risk may be higher.
  • Hormonal changes: Hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle, can promote the growth of fibroids.
  • Ethnicity: Uterine fibroids are more common in African American women than in women of other ethnicities. African Americans are 3 times more likely to develop uterine fibroids than white women.
  • Age: Fibroids can occur at almost any age but are most commonly found in the 30’s and 40’s.

Treatment Options:

Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the size, and location of the growths, and whether a woman plans to have children. Options may include:

  • Watchful waiting: A healthcare provider may recommend monitoring without intervention if fibroids are small and not causing significant symptoms.
  • Medications: Hormonal birth control and other medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms or shrink the fibroids.
  • Non-invasive procedures: MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery (FUS) and uterine artery embolization (UAE) can target and shrink fibroids without surgery.
  • Surgical interventions: In more severe cases or when fertility is not a concern, surgical procedures like myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended.

Conclusion:

Uterine fibroids are a common condition affecting women. While they are usually non-cancerous, they can cause discomfort and impact a woman’s quality of life. If you suspect you may have uterine fibroids or are experiencing symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Early detection and timely management can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Stay informed and prioritize your health!

– Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)

Check out my Beyond Clinical Walls video on this subject:

 

 

Drinking Enough Water?

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Hello, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, Dr. BCW for short. Are you drinking enough water? Today, let’s discuss hydration and the amount of water you need to drink. Staying properly hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health, but the ideal fluid intake can vary depending on several factors. This article will explore important considerations and tips to help you stay hydrated.

 

Factors Affecting Hydration Needs:

It’s important to understand that the amount of water you need to drink can depend on various factors. These include diet, age, activity level, climate, and overall health. While there are general guidelines, individual hydration needs may vary. Factors such as intense physical activity, exposure to hot or dry environments, illness, or pregnancy may increase water requirements. If you have any specific concerns or questions, it’s always wise to consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

Here are some links with general recommendations for water intake.

Fluids and Hydration:

Remember that hydration is not limited to drinking plain water alone. Fluids from various sources contribute to your overall hydration. Beverages like tea, coffee, milk, and even foods like fruits, vegetables, and yogurt contain water and can help meet your fluid needs. The key is maintaining a well-balanced intake of fluids from different sources throughout the day.

 

Monitoring Hydration:

A simple way to gauge your hydration status is to monitor the color of your urine. Typically, pale yellow urine indicates good hydration levels. Darker yellow or orange urine may suggest you need to increase your fluid intake. However, certain medications, vitamins, and foods can also affect urine color and hydration needs. When assessing your hydration, it’s essential to consider other factors, including urine color, and if you have any questions, of course, reach out to a healthcare provider.

 

Listening to Your Body:

While general guidelines exist, listening to your body’s signals and responding accordingly is paramount. If you feel thirsty, it’s a sign that your body needs fluids. Additionally, pay attention to other signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, fatigue, headache, or reduced urine output. Your body is unique, and by being mindful of its cues, you can ensure you’re adequately hydrated.

 

Conclusion:

Hydration is fundamental to maintaining good health, and the amount of water you need to drink can vary based on several factors. Remember that staying hydrated involves more than just drinking plain water; fluids from beverages and foods also contribute to your overall hydration. By listening to your body’s signals, monitoring the color of your urine, and considering individual factors, you can ensure you’re meeting your hydration needs. If you have any specific concerns or questions, consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance.

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

-Dr. Curry-Winchell (Dr. BCW)