Category: Publication

Black Maternal Health Crisis

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, or Dr. BCW for short. Today, let’s talk about the critical role of government in combating the Black maternal health crisis. Of course, if you follow my work, you know this is a subject close to my heart. Not only from my own personal experience with maternal health but from the major impact it has on the Black community.

The Ongoing Crisis in Black Maternal Health

The Black maternal health crisis has been a pressing issue for decades. Stark disparities lingering in the shadows of our healthcare system. Black mothers are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than their white counterparts. They also face serious challenges in accessing quality maternal healthcare—a situation I find both personal and distressing.

Solidarity with Biden-Harris Initiatives

Recently, I had the privilege of contributing to an article in Essence magazine. The article outlines the initiatives the Biden-Harris administration has implemented to tackle this crisis. From the Blueprint for Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis to the launch of the Maternal Mental Health Hotline. This comprehensive approach spotlights the necessity of high-quality maternal care and underscores the significance of accessible postpartum support for mothers across the nation.

My Contribution and Commitment to Change

Similar to the efforts by policymakers, my aim is to advocate for change that bridges the gap in maternal health outcomes. My voice in the Essence article echoes a collective call to action, underscoring the importance of healthcare equity, the need for a diverse healthcare workforce, and the crucial role of policy in bringing those engraved statistics to the forefront of national consciousness.

In joining the chorus of experts praising the administration’s steps towards improvement, my message was clear: As Black women, as mothers, as members of this society, we deserve to have our health taken seriously and our lives protected fiercely and consistently by every means available.

It is through these measures, support, and advocacy that we can ensure a future wherein Black mothers no longer face such dire statistics and instead find themselves enveloped within a healthcare system that serves them with the dignity, compassion, and care they rightfully deserve.

 

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

 

To read the full Essence article on visit:

https://www.essence.com/news/biden-harris-black-maternal-health-week/

Cervical Cancer & Black Community

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, or Dr. BCW for short. Today, I’d like to talk about a topic that is of critical importance: the dangers of ignoring symptoms of cervical cancer. Thanks to She Knows for supporting this message and promoting health equity and advocacy. The current situation needs as many supporters as possible. Especially when health and life are concerned, we must find ways to elevate our message.

The Heartbreaking Reality

Recently, the loss of Jessica Pettway, a beloved beauty influencer who passed away from cervical cancer at the age of 36, has highlighted a concerning issue in healthcare. Of course, as a Black physician who shares similar roles as a wife and mother, I feel a deep connection to Jessica’s story. It’s a somber reminder of the increasing mortality rates and often-dismissed healthcare concerns of Black women. This isn’t just a statistic. Instead, it’s a call to action to address the systemic issues that perpetuate this tragic narrative.

Silent Symptoms and Missed Warning Signs

Cervical cancer is a silent enemy that can go undetected in its early stages. Regular screenings and exams are vital for early detection, especially for Black women. Black women face a disproportionately higher risk of developing and dying from cervical cancer. Jessica’s symptoms of intense bleeding and fatigue were attributed to fibroids at first. These dismissals showcase the vital need for both patients and healthcare providers to listen intently to the signs our bodies give us. Of course, seeking a second opinion is always a good precaution. Especially for conditions like cervical cancer, which may have limited or delayed symptoms.

Instead of shying away from the healthcare system, lean into it. Establish care with a healthcare provider. Build rapport with your healthcare provider, and ensure you are getting regular health screenings. When you have a provider that knows you, and a provider that you trust, it is easier to advocate and question your health plans.

Advocacy and Action

Without action, there will be no change. If we want to see improvements, we must be willing to speak up. It will be difficult and it will take time. Here’s where we must make a stand:

  • Remove Doubt, Trust Yourself: Never dismiss your intuition. No symptom or concern is too small to be addressed. If you feel overlooked by your healthcare provider, express your concerns until you are heard. Keeping a health journal can be an invaluable tool in these conversations.
  • Proactive Health Monitoring: Understand what screenings are appropriate for your age and current health status. This proactive vigilance is key to catching hidden health concerns early.
  • Seeking Second Opinions: There is power in persistence. If your health concerns are not being taken seriously, it’s essential to seek a second opinion. Your well-being must be given the comprehensive attention it deserves.

Advocating for oneself in the medical system can be daunting. However, it could be a necessary step that saves your life. Women’s health is a central aspect of public health, and sharing stories like Jessica’s creates a ripple effect of awareness. We cannot accept pain as “normal.” Instead, we must break down the biases and barriers that prevent effective and equitable healthcare.

Closing

To the women of color reading this: Your health matters. Your voice is powerful. Do not allow it to be sidelined. The road to health equity is long, but together, through advocacy and awareness, change is possible.

Each story shared, each conversation had, brings us closer to a future where our health is valued and our pain is seen. Let us honor Jessica’s legacy by advocating for yourself and others. By advocating our health concerns can be taken seriously.

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

 

To read the full She Knows article on cervical cancer visit:

https://www.sheknows.com/health-and-wellness/articles/2993994/jessica-pettway-cervical-cancer/

 

Eating Disorders in the Black Community

Posted on

Hi, it’s Dr. Curry-Winchell, or Dr. BCW for short, and today, I want to talk about the pressing yet often overlooked issue of eating disorders in the Black community.

Busting Myths

Despite prevalent myths, eating disorders do not discriminate—they affect individuals across all ethnicities. The false belief that these disorders are rare among Black people is not only incorrect but also detrimental. It hinders those in need from seeking support. The myth is partly rooted in cultural norms that favor curvier body types, potentially masking the presence of an eating disorder. Moreover, the lack of diverse representation in media and healthcare narratives reinforces this dangerous stereotype, usually depicting eating disorders as afflictions of white, affluent females.

The Impact of Stereotypes

In my practice, the impact of eating disorders on Black individuals is palpable. These disorders are severe health conditions with potentially life-threatening consequences. Being a Black female physician and health advocate, I’ve witnessed the additional hurdles my patients encounter—delayed diagnosis, limited access to treatment, and the weight of societal stigma. To dismantle these barriers, we must first acknowledge and confront the stereotypes and biases at play. This involves a collective effort to amplify inclusive research and education and to reshape the media portrayal of eating disorders.

Moving Towards Health Equity

The path to health equity demands that we elevate the conversation about body image and mental health in the Black community. We must foster an inclusive healthcare environment where everyone feels seen and adequately supported. Advocating for comprehensive education, diverse representation, and accessible healthcare services is essential. It’s about creating a healthcare system that truly understands and responds to diverse needs.

Please take the time to check out my recent SheKnows article by clicking the link below.

Why Eating Disorders in Black People Frequently Go Undiagnosed, According to a Doctor

 

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

 

#EatingDisordersAwareness #HealthEquity #BlackHealthMatters

Reduce Heart Attack Risk

Posted on

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

Posted on

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)

 

Ibuprofen 30 Days in a Row

Posted on

thisDr BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, shares what Happens When You Take Ibuprofen 30 Days in a Row with BestLife

read the full Eat This Not That article here

Article Snippet:

Motrin, Midol, Advil, and Addaprin—these are all brand names of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) ibuprofen, and many of us keep a bottle or two of this medicine in the bathroom cabinet in case of headaches, cramps, or other minor discomforts. In addition to the over-the-counter (OTC) version that can be grabbed off the shelf, prescription ibuprofen was also the 38th most prescribed drug in the U.S. as of 2020, so a lot of us are taking it. But just because it’s popular and easy to obtain, does that mean it’s safe to take every day? We asked a doctor. Read on to see what might happen to your body if you take this drug every day for a month or more.

Bayo Curry-Winchell, MD, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician at Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital, shared with Best Life, “As an urgent care and family medicine physician, I often recommend a short course of ibuprofen to my patients because it can help alleviate symptoms such as fever, headache, and/or body aches. However, taking the drug for a prolonged time can cause you to develop serious complications.” One of those is tinnitus, or ringing in the ear. Curry-Winchell says tinnitus can be brought about “by ibuprofen reducing the amount of blood that flows to the inner ear.”

See what else Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, has to share as she answers this question for BestLife.  It is an important topic, so please review.

Doctors Wish You Knew About Avoiding Cancer

Posted on

Dr BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, shares The #1 Thing Doctors Wish You Knew About Avoiding Cancer for Good.  Don’t miss this article.

read the full Eat This Not That article here

Article Snippet:

  • Alcohol use and current smoking are associated with a higher risk of breast cancer.
  • A low-fat dietary pattern, which includes increase in fruits, vegetables, and grains, may reduce risk of death from breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
  • Regular, moderate physical activity may provide modest protection against breast cancer.”

In addition, getting annual mammograms helps detect cancer early and increases the chances of survival. Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital says, “The recommended age to start screening for breast cancer varies per society, organization, or governmental health agency. In our country, the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening at the age of 50 versus the American Cancer Society who recommends screening at the age of 40. It’s important to note, women should weigh the benefits and risks of screening tests when deciding whether to begin getting mammograms before age 50.”

See what else Dr. Curry-Winchell has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss this important topic.  It could save your life.

RSV Surge, Hospitals are Overwhelmed

Posted on

Dr. BCW talks RSV Surge as Hospitals are overwhelmed. Here’s What You Need to Know.

read the full Eat This, Not That article here

Article Snippet:

With the holidays around the corner and RSV on the rise, health officials are urging people to take precautions. “Unlike Covid, R.S.V. can spread when people touch contaminated surfaces, “Emily Martin, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health told the New York Times.  “It also spreads through respiratory droplets. So it’s a good idea to disinfect surfaces, particularly in settings like day care centers, where young children are constantly touching things, sneezing on things and sticking them in their mouths.”

While recent headlines are often about young children getting RSV, anyone can catch the virus and everyone is advised to take steps to avoid getting sick. “It’s important to know that RSV can affect all ages,”  Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital tells us. “It’s a viral illness that has a wide range of symptoms and severity that can resemble the common cold or respiratory distress (a term used to describe a display of struggling to breath that requires emergency care and hospitalization). Those under the age of one, or over the age of 65, or someone with underlying health conditions such as lung disease (asthma) are at an increased risk for complications.”…

See what else Dr. BCW has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss RSV surge hospitals are overwhelmed

Breast Cancer Signs Woman Over 50 Should Know

Posted on

Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, shares Signs of Breast Cancer Every Woman Over 50 Should Know with Eat This, Not That.

read the full Eat This, Not That article here

Article Snippet:

…This means there is a 1 in 8 chance she will develop breast cancer. This also means there is a 7 in 8 chance she will never have the disease.” Eat This, Not That! Health spoke with experts who share what to know about breast cancer and signs to watch out for. As always, please consult your physician for medical advice. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

…, Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital tells us, “This is complicated, the high rate is due to several reasons including access to mammogram screenings, limited resources within health literacy and late diagnosis. At this time, a breast cancer diagnosis in Black/African American versus White individuals are the same. However, it is extremely important to note, Black/African Americans are dying at a disproportionate higher rate…”

See what else Dr. Curry-Winchell has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss signs of Breast Cancer Every Woman Over 50 Should Know

5 Life-Saving Flu Tips Doctors Want You to Know

Posted on

Dr. BCW, Dr. Curry-Winchell, shares 5 Life-Saving Tips Doctors Want You to Know About the Flu as Cases Rise with Eat This, Not That.

read the full Eat This, Not That article here

Article Snippet:

Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell, Urgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and Saint Mary’s Hospital explains, “We have seen an increase in the number of flu cases earlier than we have seen in the past which is concerning. Right now, it’s really hard to determine how deadly this season will be.”

Dr. Mark Fischer, Regional Medical Director at International SOS tells us, ”

According to the CDC, there’s been 1,300 deaths caused by the flu so far this season. This year’s flu season came earlier than we’re used to and has been proven to be more severe than we’ve seen in recent years. It remains too early in the flu season to determine if this year will be more deadly. It is essential to stay up to date with all of the recommended vaccinations.”

This is When You’re Most Contagious, Dr. Curry-Winchell explains, “You are most likely to transmit the flu virus in the first three to four days after your symptoms have started. The best piece of advice is to stay home if you’re feeling sick at all.” Dr. Mourani says, “The flu is most contagious in the first 3-4 days of symptoms but can be from 1 day before symptoms and up to 7 days….”

See what else Dr. BCW has to share as she answers questions for Eat This, Not That as they discuss 5 life-saving tips doctors want you to know about.