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Dr. Mike's Top of Mind
The Health Impact of Friendships
The Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy, has identified loneliness as a public health crisis, highlighting its role in chronic disease development. Coupled with studies emphasizing friendships' role in preventing aspects of Dementia, it's clear we're facing a significant issue. Social isolation and loneliness have negative health impacts on par with obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and are associated with about a 50% increased risk of Dementia.
I've been fortunate to have many close friendships and family. Yet, as a Black man, I've noticed a tendency to become more isolated with age. We often neglect the small efforts needed to maintain these connections. Success can lead us to better neighborhoods and jobs that isolate us, eroding our sense of community and making it harder to keep old friends or make new ones. As we age, a feeling of irrelevance can creep in, leading to social isolation.
I make it a point to reach out to friends, especially as we grow older. Many face health issues or have passed away. Simply taking a moment to connect with someone — even through a brief phone call — can reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression and deliver brain-protecting benefits. A simple phone call can lead to more in-person interactions and a walk down memory lane. According to science, staying connected will benefit my health in many ways, even if there are things I'd rather forget.
Stay Healthy,
Dr. Mike
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This Week
And Black America
- How Ozempic is Changing Diabetes Treatments
- Researchers Estimate Vaccines Have Saved 154 million Lives Over the Past Half-Century
- 4 Reasons Why Black People Should Join a Clinical Trial
- Health Tip of the Day by Michael LeNoir, MD
- COVID Update
- How to Get Your Child Ready for Camp
AAWP Programs on Air
- Black Doctors Speak Podcast
- AAWP Medical Minute
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And Black America
How Ozempic is Changing Diabetes Treatment
Read the Full Article Here
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Millions of Americans with Type 2 Diabetes rely on insulin, which can be burdensome to manage. New drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro offer an alternative, helping many patients reduce or even eliminate their insulin use. Ozempic, in particular, has shown promising results in maintaining blood sugar levels while reducing insulin dependency. Ongoing studies are exploring combinations of these new drugs with insulin to improve glucose control. However, careful monitoring is essential to prevent hypoglycemia and adjust doses appropriately.
Why Is This Important? Diabetes plagues the Black Community. Ozempic has gotten a lot of publicity for helping with weight loss but it really works for Diabetes. It only has to be taken once a week and improved adherence, reducing blood sugar and improving Hemoglobin A1C.
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Researchers Estimate Vaccines Have Saved 154 Million Lives Over The Past Half-Century
Read the Full Article Here
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A recent study highlighted in The Lancet reveals that vaccines have saved approximately 154 million lives globally over the last 50 years. This finding underscores the impact of the World Health Organization's Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), which began in 1974 with the aim of immunizing children worldwide against deadly diseases. The study utilized 22 models and extensive data analysis to arrive at these figures, showing particularly significant benefits for infants, with a 40% reduction in infant mortality rates and the measles vaccine alone accounting for 60% of lives saved.
Why Is This Important? This study proves that vaccines are not all about COVID-19. Black Americans have the lowest rates of all type vaccinations nationwide. This article shows why that needs to change.
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4 Reasons Why Black People Should Join a Clinical Trial
Read the Full Article Here
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Participating in clinical trials offers significant benefits, such as access to innovative treatments, often at low or no cost. These trials not only provide participants with the latest therapies but also contribute crucially to medical research, particularly benefiting underrepresented groups. Furthermore, participants gain deeper insight into their health conditions through comprehensive assessments. For those concerned about costs, support is available for managing potential expenses related to participation.
Why Is This Important? Black Americans still are not joining clinical trials. It's not all about just testing medicines but their are other advantages to be aware of.
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Health Tip of the Day by Michael LeNoir, MD | |
According to a study from Harvard University, incorporating just 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil into your daily diet can significantly lower your risk of dying from dementia by 23%. Embracing a small change like this could have substantial health benefits. Consider increasing your intake to a full tablespoon for potentially even greater effects. Olive oil isn't just for cooking—it's a simple step toward a healthier life! | |
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One variant, KP.2, now accounts for about 28% of U.S. cases, becoming the dominant variant and surpassing JN.1, which was widespread last winter and made up about 16% of the cases. With only 22% of American adults having received the latest COVID vaccine, host vulnerability is a concern. Many may be at risk of reinfection, especially if they haven't had the virus recently, WebMD reports. "With waning immunity, we're more susceptible to a wave," said Thomas A. Russo, Chief of Infectious Disease at the University of Buffalo, according to WebMD.
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How to Get Your Child Ready For Camp | |
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Get a Check-Up Before Camp: If your child hasn't had a recent annual physical, schedule an exam before heading to camp. This will help ensure your child is healthy and able to participate in all activities.
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Set Expectations Ahead of Time: In the weeks leading up to camp, talk with your child about what to expect at camp. Remind your child to stay hydrated, follow safety instructions, and not to share hats, helmets or hair brushes.
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Double-Check the Packing List: Don't forget items like sunscreen, bug spray and a disposable camera! Leave valuables at home.
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Be Aware of Medical Policies: If your child has any food allergies, medications or special health needs, make sure you've communicated with the camp ahead of time. Know who should receive medications, how they will be administered and other policies about health conditions.
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Ask your Child How They're Feeling: Check in with your child to gauge their excitement or nerves. Let them know that it's okay and normal to miss home and focus on what they are most looking forward to about camp.
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Prepare for Drop-off: Don't linger too long when dropping your child off. Be excited for your child, say a quick goodbye and try to enjoy your own time away!
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DR. MIKE'S ETHNIC HEALTH REPORT | | |
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Dr. Michael LeNoir is just your neighborhood doc — a world-renowned allergist, a board-certified pediatrician, recognized expert on Asthma in inner cities, and the President and Founder of AAWP. Serving the Bay Area since 1977, Dr. LeNoir has dedicated his career to helping African Americans navigate a healthcare system he saw first-hand that is fundamentally build on racial biases. Read More | | | | | |
