Female muggers beat woman for Apple products
By Dan Gesslein
Cops are looking for a pair of females who beat a woman to steal her suite of Apple electronics.
At around 11 pm on March 20, a 25-yearold woman was walking in the vicinity of Watson and Evergreen Avenues. Two young women ran up to her and began punching the victim in the face.
During the beating, the attackers ripped off the victim’s Apple iPad, iPhone, Air Pods and her sneakers, cops said.
The attackers then hopped into a black SUV and took off west on Watson Avenue.
The victim sustained swelling to the face and was treated by EMS at the scene.
The NYPD released surveillance video of the two suspects from inside a nearby apartment building. The first suspect is described as a female with a medium complexion and short red hair. She was last seen wearing a black hoodie with white lettering on the front. She also wore black leggings and white sneakers.
NYPD is searching for two females for allgedly mugging a woman for her Apple products.
The second suspect is described as a female with a dark complexion and short dark hair tied in a bun atop her head. She was last seen wearing a black hoodie with red flames on the sleeves and the front as well as white writing on the front. She also wore black pants and white sneakers.
Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the CrimeStoppers website at https://crimestoppers. nypdonline.org/ or on Twitter @NYPDTips. All calls are strictly confidential.
The
17 Times Chain, headphone snatchers on e-bike strike thru-out Bronx
By Dan Gesslein
The NYPD has now connected an additional 11 robberies to a string of chain and headphone snatchings throughout the Bronx and upper Manhattan over a two-month period. In one day, the crew is suspected of striking three times within a 10 minute period.
Investigators now believe the pair of robbers seen riding an e-bike first struck on February 20.
At around 1:40 pm, an e-bike drove up to a 30-yearold in the vicinity of the Grand Concourse and East 182nd Street. He snatched headphones off the victim’s head and drove off.
Five minutes later the same bike road up on a 21-year-old woman near Jerome Avenue and Fordham Road. The robber stole the headphones and rode off.
Five minutes after that, the same thief clipped the headphones off the head of a 19-year-old male in the vicinity of East Fordham Road and Walton Avenue.
Cops said the same serial thief then graduated to chain snatching. From February 25 until March 6, the same robber, now with an accomplice, rode through the Grand Concourse area and snatched chains off the necks of victims of both males and females. In total the suspects stole seven chains during six robberies stretching from 190th Street and the Grand Concourse down to Macombs Road.
During another rash of robberies, the same crew is suspected of striking three
times within 1 hour in one day stretching from Fordham Road to Morris Park. At around 7 pm on March 11, the crew ripped headphones off an 18-year-old woman’s head in the vicinity of Walton Avenue and East 170th Street.
Forty minutes later the crew allegedly struck again. The robbers rode up and stole headphones off a 25-year-old woman’s head on Valentine Avenue.
Twenty five minutes later, the headphones thief stole from a 44-year-old man on Morris Park Avenue.
The NYPD released surveillance video of the suspects riding e-bikes. One was a black bike the other had shades of red and orange. In the video the suspects wore puffy winter coats, and black face masks.
Anyone with information in regard to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the CrimeStoppers website at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/ or on Twitter @NYPDTips.
All calls are strictly confidential.
Hi-end Jewelry bandits strike in Morris Park, Van Nest
By David Greene
The NYPD is asking the public’s help in identifying three individuals wanted in connection with two unrelated, high-end jewelry robberies in the Morris Park and Van Nest neighborhoods.
In the latest incident that occurred in Morris Park at 4:42 p.m. on March 25,
a police source told the Bronx, two unidentified individuals forcibly en-
tered through a side door of a residential building in the vicinity of Lurting Avenue and Van Nest Avenue.
The source continued, “Once inside, the unidentified individuals removed jewelry, a passport and birth certificates. The unidentified individuals fled on foot to parts unknown.”
Police say no one was injured in the heist; the stolen jewelry had an estimated value of $25,000. The NYPD released a photo taken from surveillance video that depicts one of the suspects, described as a heavyset female who wore a head covering.
Detectives at the 49th Precinct were already looking for the armed gunman who robbed a
couple at 9:44 p.m. on March 12 in the vicinity of Delancey Place and Muliner Avenue.
In this case a police source stated, “A 37-year-old male and a 39-year-old female were approached by an unidentified individual with a firearm.
The unidentified individual forcefully removed jewelry, and a cell phone valued at approximately $147,000.”
The official added that the suspect fled the scene on foot from the location.
The NYPD released surveillance video of the suspect who appeared to be a heavyset male wearing a grey hooded jacket and had a large bag hanging off his shoulder. The sus-
pect can be seen quickly approaching the couple as they were apparently entering their home on the quiet street. Police added that neither victim was injured in the incident.
One female resident of Muliner Avenue who had heard about the high-value jewelry heist asked, “Who wears that much jewelry.” The woman added, “We need more police around the neighborhood.”
Currently police do not believe that the two crimes are related. Police are asking anyone with information on either incident to call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1 (800) 577-TIPS, all calls remain confidential.
Photo courtesy of the NYPD
Police are asking the public for help in identifying this individual wanted in connection with an armed robbery where a couple were robbed at their front door of $147,000 in jewelry.
The NYPD is asking the public's help in identifying this woman wanted in connection with a Morris Park burglary on March 25, where $25,000 in jewelry was taken from a home in the vicinity of Lurting Avenue and Van Nest Avenue.
Photo courtesy of the NYPD
Unseen toll of car accidents in NYC: Examining justice, accountability
By Anastasia Tskhay
The relentless pulse of New York City, a metropolis defined by its constant motion, carries a hidden cost: the persistent threat of car accidents. While the city invests in initiatives aimed at bolstering road safety, collisions remain a stark reality, leaving a trail of injured individuals and fractured families in their wake.
Understanding the multifaceted factors that contribute to these incidents, acknowledging their broader impact, and examining the often-complex path to justice are essential for fostering a safer urban environment.
Despite dedicated efforts to curb traffi c-related harm, car accidents in NYC continue to occur with unsettling regularity. What might be brushed off as a routine byproduct of big-city living often masks underlying issues of negligence and systemic vulnerabilities.
Statistical snapshots paint a concerning picture. Brooklyn, for example, consistently registers the highest rate of car accident injuries across the boroughs. Certain periods, such as the Labor Day holiday, witness a tragic spike in fatalities. Even the seemingly commonplace presence of taxis in accident statistics hints at the intricate web of factors at play on city streets.
The Pervasive Issue of Driver Inattention Driver inattention stands out as a major culprit in NYC collisions. NYPD data from January 2024 reveals that a staggering number
of accidents – nearly 2,000 – were attributed to drivers failing to focus on the task at hand. This encompasses the pervasive issue of distracted driving, fueled by mobile devices and other diversions that momentarily steal a driver's attention from the critical act of operating a vehicle.
A Complex Web of Contributing Factors
Pinpointing the precise cause of a car accident often reveals a confluence of circumstances. While driver negligence in various forms is frequently a primary factor, the realities of a densely
populated urban environment introduce additional layers of complexity – and sometimes, obstacles to accountability.
Beyond distracted driving, other common forms of driver error contribute significantly: speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and reckless behaviors like aggressive lane changes and ignoring traffic signals. The sheer volume of vehicles and pedestrians navigating often congested roadways amplifies the potential for human error to result in collisions. Furthermore, the unique
characteristics of a major city like New York introduce specific challenges. The constant interplay between vehicular traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, and delivery vehicles creates a dynamic and often unpredictable environment. The urgency and fast-paced nature of city life can sometimes lead to rushed decisions and a disregard for traffic regulations.
The Elusive Pursuit of Justice: Successes and Setbacks
The pursuit of justice in NYC car accident cases
Unseen toll of car accidents in NYC: Examining justice, accountability
presents a varied landscape. Some incidents result in swift accountability, while others become protracted legal battles. Consider, for instance, a widely reported case several years ago where a pedestrian was tragically struck by a speeding vehicle in a crosswalk. Despite clear evidence and witness testimony, the legal proceedings dragged on for an extended period due to legal maneuvering and challenges in definitively proving the driver's recklessness beyond a reasonable doubt in a criminal context. While the civil case that followed ultimately resulted in a settlement for the victim's family, the initial lack of immediate criminal consequences frustrated many who saw it as a failure of the justice system to promptly address dangerous driving.
Conversely, there are instances where the legal system does provide a measure of justice. Oresky & Associates, PLLC, for example, recently secured a $999,000 award for a pedestrian struck by an automobile, demonstrating that accountability can be achieved for victims of negligent drivers through diligent legal representation in civil court. Such cases highlight the crucial role of legal advocacy in ensuring that those injured by careless actions can seek compensation for their suffering and losses. However, the path
to such outcomes is rarely straightforward and underscores the need for thorough investigation and skilled legal counsel.
Adding another layer to the problem is the issue of uninsured and underinsured drivers. When an accident is caused by a motorist lacking adequate insurance coverage, victims can face significant hurdles in obtaining compensation for their injuries and losses. This
gap in coverage can leave individuals struggling with medical bills and other expenses through no fault of their own, further highlighting the social and economic impact of car accidents.
Moving Towards Prevention: A Collective Responsibility
Reducing the incidence and severity of car accidents in New York City requires a multi-pronged approach that extends beyond indi-
vidual driver behavior. It demands a collective commitment to safety from all stakeholders.
Strengthening public awareness campaigns that highlight the dangers of distracted driving and other forms of negligence is crucial. Investing in infrastructure improvements that enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety, and ensuring the consistent enforcement of traffic laws, are also vital steps.
Empowering individuals to make responsible choices behind the wheel is paramount. This includes recognizing the potentially devastating consequences of distracted driving, adhering to speed limits, and never driving under the influence. The complexities of the urban environment demand heightened vigilance and a shared responsibility for the safety of all who navigate the city's bustling streets.
Montefiore announces new mental health programs, filling critical care gaps for those who need it most Health Matters
Montefiore Health System is establishing seven new outpatient programs to better serve people with urgent and/ or serious mental illness, pregnancy-related anxiety and depression, and eating disorders.
More than $18 million from the New York State Office of Mental Health Behavioral Health Center of Excellence program administered by Fidelis Care, Healthfirst and MetroPlusHealth will support the supercharged outpatient care programs,
increasing access to personalized care for Bronx residents.Gaps in mental healthcare are problematic in the Bronx, a borough that has double the New York citywide rate for psychiatric hospitalizations, and most neighborhoods with high
might otherwise turn to the emergency room for treatment of rapidly worsening depression, anxiety, acute stress, or substance use problems. Beyond the initial urgent visit, the clinic will continue to support patients, bridging their care until they are connected (or reconnected) to long-term treatment through warm, supportive handoffs. Last year at Montefiore’s Henry & Lucy Moses Emergency Division, one of the busiest emergency departments in the country, approximately 4,500 patients--or 5 percent of all patients--sought care for mental or behavioral needs.
The Women’s Mental Health Perinatal Intensive Outpatient Program will provide eight hours of programming per week for three months to people experiencing conditions such as anxiety or depression during and after pregnancy. Attendees will receive individual medication management and therapy, complimentary meals, group therapy, and parenting education. A nursery onsite will offer free, high-quality care for newborns, during program hours. As mother and baby interact, clinicians will gain insights to help tailor treatment goals.
Three new programs will provide support to patients with eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder, bolstering Montefiore’s current programming, through adding higher levels of care. For younger patients, the Partial Hospitalization Program for Adolescents and Young Adults will meet up to five times
a week, offering group therapy as well as individual and family support and Kosher, Halal, and Caribbean meal options, reflecting the many cultures of the borough. As a middle option, an Intensive Outpatient Eating Disorder program will be offered for Adolescents and Young Adults who need consistent support but not hospitalization. The new Outpatient Adult Eating Disorders Program will be informed by evidence-based approaches to stress and anxiety surrounding nutrition and food scarcity.
The First Episode and Early Psychosis Program will allow a team of providers to support people experiencing new onset of symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and paranoid thinking. The program will support patients through diagnosis and treatment and as they navigate challenges related to housing, careers, and relationships.
“All of healthcare is benefiting from a greater recognition of how our culture, combined with where we are born, and how we work and live, can valuably inform the treatment we receive,” said Jonathan E. Alpert, M.D., Ph.D., professor and Dorothy and Marty Silverman Chair, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Montefiore Health System and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. “By introducing these novel programs in communities like ours, we are developing the best interventions to improve care delivery in a meaningful way.”
“Building on our already outstanding team, we anticipate hiring the equivalent of 50 full-time roles to serve patients with an anticipated 10,000 new annual visits,” said Salimah Velji, MPH, MBA, Unified Executive Administrator, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Montefiore Health System. “Soon, patients with higher acuity will have the opportunity to receive care outside of the hospital but within our own system through intensive programs. Expanding our capacity to step-up and step-down care across the continuum will ensure patients receive the right level of care at the right time. We believe this will help reduce emergency department wait times, improve timely access to care, and provide truly tailored treatment for each patient population, enhancing the system for all.”
Montefiore Behavioral Health Center, the Westchester Square Campus, and the Moses Child Outpatient Psychiatry Division are expected sites for the new programs. Additional services are still being developed. The aim is to provide patients with more robust local care options, including greater support in times of need while staying connected to Montefiore’s network. In 2024, Montefiore received a related grant from the New York State Office of Mental Health, which is funding the creation of a Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program, an Adult Psychiatric Partial Hospitalization Program, and an additional Child Outpatient Mental Health Clinic.
Relationship between diet and colorectalcancer
This article originally appeared in NewYork Presbyterian Health Matters.
By Alessandro Fichera, M.D.
For the past three decades, colorectal cancer has been on the decline in people aged 65 years and older, according to the American Cancer Society, likely due to better screening and greater awareness. Yet for adults younger than 65, cases of colorectal cancer have increased by 0.4% for those ages 50-64 and by 2.4% in those under 50.
“The incidence is rising for colorectal cancer in younger people at an alarming rate,” says Dr. Alessandro Fichera, chief of the Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. “We know
from research that in addition to having a genetic or familial predisposition, diet plays a major role in cancer risk.”
In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness month, Dr. Fichera shares with Health Matters what
foods increase your risk for colorectal cancer, what foods are healthy for your gut, and the steps to take toward a healthier colon.
The Problem with the American Diet
Long before ultra-processed food had become a staple of the American diet, colorectal cancer was considered rare, and it is still not as common in rural societies that eat leaner, healthier diets.
“It is clear a diet that is high in fat and low in fiber, is involved with many cancers, but specifically colorectal cancer,” says Dr. Fichera. “And it is proven by looking at different populations of other countries
where the Western diet is not the norm, the incidence of cancer is significantly lower.”
And we are now seeing a generation of individuals who have grown up with more sugary beverages,
foods loaded with unhealthy fats, and red meat, says Dr. Fichera. “In part, that may explain the increase in early-onset colorectal cancer [in people under 50 years] that we have seen in the last CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Jacobi gets stormwater upgrade
The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) joined with NYC Health + Hospitals/ Jacobi and the global design and consultancy firm Arcadis to announce the ongoing stormwater drainage upgrades at the Jacobi Hospital campus. DEP is investing nearly $5 million to build stormwater drainage and storage systems beneath three of the parking lots on the campus through its Resilient NYC Partners program.
When completed, the stormwater drainage and storage systems will be able to capture more than 5 million gallons a year. The project will not only help to protect the hospital’s facilities, staff and visitors, but also create additional capacity in the larger Pelham Parkway sewer system, helping to reduce flooding throughout the neighborhood. DEP and Arcadis, who is managing the construction at each site, recently completed similar upgrades at Flushing Hospital in Queens and Pratt Institute in Brooklyn with a $1.78 million investment.
“Climate change is bringing more rain to New York City than our drainage systems were built to handle, which is why we’re investing in upgrades to protect New Yorkers in every neighborhood,” said DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala.
“Thank you to NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi, Arcadis, and all of our partners for helping us complete these important upgrades for the residents and businesses in Pelham Parkway, as well as Flushing and Clinton Hill.”
lions of gallons of stormwater, reduce our dependence on the local sewer system, and help reduce flooding in our neighborhood.”
“New York City’s public hospital system knows full well the impact climate-related weather events can have on our facilities, and that we don’t have the time to wait before we act,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Senior Vice President for the Office of Facilities Development Manuel Saez, PhD. “The completion of this state-of-the-art, cost-effective green infrastructure solution beneath the Jacobi Hospital parking lot will ensure the continued safety of the facility for our staff and patients for years to come. Thank you to the DEP and Arcadis teams for delivering this project expediently and for their work installing climate-smart infrastructure throughout our great city.”
“NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi is excited to partner with the Department of Environmental Protection to install these green infrastructure improvements throughout our campus,” Christopher Mastromano, Chief Executive Officer of NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi. “Each year, we will capture mil-
“The stormwater upgrades at Jacobi Medical Center are a critical investment in both infrastructure and community resilience,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.
“By capturing millions of gallons of stormwater annually, this project will help reduce flooding, protect hospital facilities, and enhance the surrounding Pelham Parkway neighborhood. We commend DEP and its partnership with Arcadis for their commitment to innovative solutions that safeguard our city’s future.”
At Jacobi Hospital, teams installed stormwater storage systems under parking lots 1, 3 and 4.
Construction crews and hospital management sequenced the installation to ensure only one lot was closed at a time, limiting impact on hospital staff, patients, and visitors. For each system, the existing asphalt was removed, as well as the rock and soil below it, to a depth of 6-8 feet. Crews then installed specially designed subsurface drainage and storage infrastructure,
placed gravel and soil on top of it, and laid new asphalt to rebuild the parking area.
When completed, the stormwater drainage and storage systems at Jacobi Hospital will manage runoff from 7 acres of impervious area. The systems are composed of over 16,000 individual tanks which can collectively store nearly 400,000 gallons. Parking lots 1 and 3 are completed and will capture 2.81 million gallons and 1.04 million gallons a year, respectively. Lot 4, which is currently under construction, will capture 1.40 million gallons a year.
These projects will help to alleviate flooding and address chronic drainage issues at Jacobi. Moreover, by creating additional capacity in the sewer system, the project helps to improve the health of Westchester Creek and mitigate flood risks to the Pelham Parkway sewer system.
The stormwater drainage and storage systems at Jacobi Hospital advance a core commitment of NYC Health + Hospitals’ Climate Resilience Plan, a series of infrastructure projects to ensure the sustainability and resiliency of the public health system’s facilities in the face of climate change. Creating
a stormwater flood mitigation system will ensure staff and patients can continue to access the hospital for critically needed services during periods of heavy or extreme rainfall.
Additionally, DEP and Arcadis have recently completed similar work at Flushing Hospital and Pratt Institute.
At Flushing Hospital, the Emergency Room lot was rebuilt with subsurface drainage infrastructure that will capture 390,000 gallons of stormwater annually, reducing flooding and improving the health of nearby Flushing Creek. Additional drainage upgrades are being scheduled at the hospital for the coming months.
The work at the Emergency Room lot cost $286,000.
DEP’s nation-leading green infrastructure program has constructed more than 13,000 green infrastructure installations including curbside rain gardens, green roofs, subsurface storage, permeable pavers and green medians. All of these green installations intercept stormwater before it can drain into the sewer system, thereby creating additional capacity in the sewers, which can help to reduce flooding and overflows into local waterways.
Community Op Ed NYC firefighters are in critical need of support for available mental health counseling
By Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson & Nancy Carbone is the Executive Director of Friends of Firefighters
We have all seen the recent devastation of deadly fire across our city and nation. A recent fire in the Bronx ravaged the homes of more than 250 families, just as wildfires in Los Angeles killed more than two dozen people, destroyed thousands of homes, and uprooted thousands of families. Both happened around the two-year anniversary of another tragedy, the Twin Parks fire in the Bronx, that killed 17 residents.
These events bring a tsunami of emotions for our firefighters as they reflect upon and recall the sights of devastation. When a fire burns, our firefighters come calling, putting their lives on the line to save our neighbors. But sometimes it is their own lives that may later need saving from… wounds not visible to the naked eye.
The Sept. 11 attacks dramatically displayed the need for counseling and mental health support for New York City firefighters. The city buried 343 firefighters who gave their lives that day, and the more than 350 firefighters (and counting) who have subsequently died from 9/11-related illnesses over the last 24 years.
In our roles as Bronx Borough President and Executive Director of Friends of Firefighters, an organization that provides counseling to New York’s Bravest, we have witnessed firsthand the growing calls for help from both ac-
tired firefighter who recently shared that counseling ‘provides a source of support and comfort whenever we need it’ and that they ‘wouldn’t know where they’d be today without it.’
tive and retired members of the service and their families. Over the years, we have been on the frontlines of countless devastating fires.
But we have also seen a positive shift in firefighter culture. What was once considered taboo—seeking help—has now become more accepted and normalized. This transformation is a remarkable change from 15-25 years ago when asking for help could have resulted in negative consequences.
But that normalization comes with a stark reality: the number of firefighters seeking mental health support is outpacing available services. The number of counseling sessions conducted by Friends of Firefighters increased by more than 300% between 2018 and 2023. Last year, nearly 4,500 counseling sessions were conducted, on par with 2023’s record year. We hear repeatedly from our firefighters that counseling saved their lives, including one re-
But as the mental health walls continue to come down, there is now a wait list of more than 60 firefighters waiting for counseling services — and a waitlist in this realm is dangerous. When firefighters (or any individuals for that matter) need help, they need it now, especially since firefighters are more likely to die from suicide versus in the line of duty.
According to a recent report by the U.S. Fire Administration, firefighters develop PTSD at a similar level to service members returning from combat. In fact, the suicide rate among firefighters is about 40% higher than the general population. The number of firefighter suicides is estimated to be at least 100 per year.
The FDNY’s Counseling Services Unit, which has a staff of professionals dedicated to providing mental health evaluations, direct treatment, and referrals for all employees, refers some firefighters to trusted organizations like Friends of Firefighters because of the overwhelming demand for support services. Firefighters and other rescue
personnel develop PTSD at a similar rate to military service members returning from combat, according to an August 2016 study from the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology. The report reveals that approximately 20% of firefighters and paramedics meet the criteria for PTSD at some point during their career, more than three times the rate of the general population. The correlation is clear.
So, what can we do?
The City Council made a significant impact last fiscal year by providing record discretionary funding, which has been crucial in reducing the waitlist for services. Now, we are asking them to increase that funding again in the upcoming fiscal year (FY 26) to better support our firefighters and emergency personnel.
Additionally, with half of New York State’s population living in the downstate region—Long Island, Westchester, and New York City—the State must double down on efforts to support the mental health of NYC firefighters. Some of these firefighters were deployed out west to assist their colleagues in Los Angeles. We’ve seen the mental health initiatives Governor Hochul proposed as part of her budget, and those efforts should be expanded to provide more mental health resources specifically for our
NYC firefighters.
Lastly, we are calling on our colleagues in Congress to support these critical efforts as well. We’ve seen similar action with the James Zadroga Act and recent efforts to close the $3 billion funding gap in the 9/11 WTC Health Program. As we approach the 25th anniversary of 9/11—a tragedy that led to the creation of groups like Friends of Firefighters—this milestone is likely to trigger emotional challenges for New York’s Bravest. In addition to closing the funding gap, we must ensure that our firefighters on the front lines have the mental health resources they need. When the tones go off at the firehouse, firefighters drop everything to respond to the emergency. They run into danger at significant risk to extinguish the flames and save lives. Sometimes, it is their own flames that need extinguishing. Together, we can help these heroes by responding to their needs. It is our responsibility to keep our first responders safe, as they do for us."
Borough President Vanessa Gibson
Relationship between diet and colorectalcancer
several years. The trend will continue unless we make some significant changes,” he says.
Foods That Increase Risk
What you eat can affect inflammation in your bowels and gut, and inflammation is a predisposing factor for colorectal cancer development. Studies have shown that the Western diet has been strongly linked to chronic inflammation. The main food substances that cause inflammation in the body and may contribute to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, researchers have found, are sugar, animal fats, and red and processed meats.
A recent study from the American Cancer Society showed that a proportion of colorectal cancer cases could be attributable to
dietary factors, including 7.3% of cases linked to red meat consumption, 10.5% linked to low dietary fiber, and 12.8% linked to processed meat consumption.
Sugar: Sugar, especially processed sugar like high fructose corn syrup, is ubiquitous — it’s found in candy, sodas, and cereals, as well as breads and packaged foods. “Sugar is linked to risk of obesity and inflammation,” says Dr. Fichera.
“You have to look at the type of sugar, the amount of sugar, and the balance with the rest of the diet.”
Animal fats: Animal fats can cause severe chronic inflammation, especially if eaten over a long period of time, which can also lead to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
“We do know that obesity is associated with systemic, low-grade inflammation
throughout the body that contributes to the direct effect of fat in the diet,” says Dr. Fichera. “There are cancers that are driven by inflammation and the correlation between inflammation and colorectal cancer is well-known and established.”
Red and processed meats: Meats like bacon, salami, hot dogs, and cold cuts can cause inflammation, obesity, diabetes, and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The exact reason is still to be determined, but the numbers show a correlation: A study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology found that people who ate red or processed meat four or more times a week had a 20% higher risk of colorectal cancer than those who indulged in them twice a
week or less.
What You Can Do To Reduce Risk
The good news is that simple lifestyle changes and staying on top of health can make a big difference.
Aim for a colorful, varied diet: Plant-based diets high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer, especially fi ber-rich veggies like kale, spinach, and broccoli. Leafy greens are packed with fi ber and nutrients and benefi t the gastrointestinal tract. There isn’t one specifi c vegetable that is a magic cure-all for a healthy colon. It’s more about eating a variety of nutritious foods and focusing on a colorful, plantbased diet.
“The Mediterranean diet is good because it is balanced,” says Dr. Fichera. “We need to increase the consumption of whole grains, fruit, seafood, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and berries, which the Mediterranean diet primarily consists of, and try to keep the amount of red meat and animal fats to an absolute minimum.”
Reduce alcohol intake: Alcohol has been linked to several types of cancer, including breast, mouth and throat, esophagus, voice box, and colorectal cancer, according to a recent report from the U.S. surgeon general. “Cutting both alcohol and smoking always goes a long way because there is a strong association between
those substances and cancer risk,” says Dr. Fichera. Get screened: Family history is a major determinant of colorectal cancer. Having a first-degree relative with polyps or cancer increases your risk of colorectal cancer tremendously, so having that piece of knowledge is extremely valuable. For those with a family history, Dr. Fichera advises early screening — with a colonoscopy — at least 10 years prior to when your relative was initially diagnosed. If your mother, father, or even a brother or sister, was diagnosed with colorectal cancer or a precancerous polyp at age 50, you should get screened no later than 40.
Alessandro Fichera, M.D., is the chief of the Division of Colorectal Surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Fichera’s clinical and research areas include inflammatory bowel disease, minimally invasive surgery, and the prevention, treatment and management for colorectal cancer. Dr. Fichera leads a world-class team of colorectal surgeons that uses state-of-the-art technologies and innovative surgical techniques to provide patients with the very best in comprehensive colorectal care, including colorectal and anal cancer, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and other benign conditions affecting the colon, rectum and anus.
Culinary Road
By Morris Gut
Major League Baseball season is underway. If you’re planning to eat while visiting Yankee Stadium, the food service throughout the park has been revamped for 2025 featuring some old and some new.
For example: Bronx-born celebrity chef Christian Petroni, former executive chef at Fortina restaurants in Westchester and a regular on the Food Network, has brought his ‘Cheesy Garlic Bread’ for the fans. Mac Truck will be offering their unique take on Mac n’ Cheese with a variety of toppings. Also, noted Chef/ restaurateur David Chang has brought Fuku, his fried chicken concept.
Returning concessionaires include: Lobel Meat Market for tasty beef sandwiches and platters; Streetbird by Chef Marcus Samuelsson, Bobby Flay’s ‘Bobby’s Burgers’, Mighty Quinn’s BBQ, Chick & Pete’s, City Winery, The Halal Guys, Sumo Dog, Benihana, Oatly, and Wings of New York. There are gluten-free, vegetarian & vegan options. You can also check out the Yankee Stadium Tower Garden. For more info: www.mlb. com/yankees/ballpark/food
For all you Mets fans out
there, the big culinary news coming out of Citifield this season is the return of Pat La Frieda Meat Purveyors and Pete Alonso’s Arctic Grill. Pete is the Mets 1st baseman. There’s also Whole Hog BBQ, Lobster Shack, Shake Shack, and Fuku. Vegetarian and vegan options, too. www.mlb. com/mets/ballpark/citifield-dining-guide TAKE A SPRING DRIVE WITH GOOD FOOD IN MIND! Here are some delicious destinations… LATIN SPIRITS AND CUISINE AT EL PRIMO
Dynamic host and co-owner Daniel Cahill along with partners Rory Dolan and Declan Rainsford have created a hotspot focusing on elevated Latin American cuisine. There’s a long sparkling Agave bar and curved banquets and high tops that lead to a semi-private dining room in the rear. Soft inviting colors throughout. Enjoy a curated Agave cocktail flight. Extraordinary flavors coming
Noshing ideas at Yankee Stadium, Citifield
out of this kitchen include beautifully plated Mole Enchiladas, Al Pastor Tacos, Vegan Sabina Quesadilla, and Grilled Shrimp Tostada. Open 7 days from noon to 2 a.m. El Primo, 166B Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-861-0400 www.elprimowp.com
THE FOUNTAIN AT MULINO
Spring is a lovely time to dine at Mulino of Westchester in White Plains. The fountain garden seen through a giant picture window is beautiful as is the lavish multi-level dining room and bar/lounge. General Manager Gimmy Cavagna and his staff keep the premises spiffy. Artworks, bursting colorful floral displays, the bustling bar.
A special menu is served. Don’t miss their dramatic Seafood Tower; Linguine Nere con Coda D’Aragosto Marechiaro, black linguine with baby lobster tails and delicious cheesecake. Open 7 days.Valet parking. Reservations advised. Mulino of Westchester, 99 Court Street, White Plains 914-761-1818 www.mulinosny.com
DECADENT BURRATA
BURGER AT BIA
One of the most exciting restaurant openings this past year, Simi and Miranda Polozani and their team have been showing off their skills at flashy Bia American Kitchen & Bar at Chappaqua Crossing. Chef William Deluca’s glob-
al menu has been surprising all comers including us. Our recent indulgences here included their signature Burrata Burger with baby arugula, roasted peppers, crispy burrata and balsamic, a big bowl of Southwest Chicken Salad with Cajun chicken, mixed greens, corn, red onions, avocado, black beans, roasted peppers, tortilla chips, cheddar and boom boom dressing, and Harissa Steamed Mussels. Delicious and satisfying. I admit I was especially smitten with their classic Grand Marnier Souffle for dessert. Every spoonful fluffy, decadent and delightful. The artsy dramatically designed 220-seat space has two dining rooms, a party/ catering area and sweeping contemporary bar and lounge. Bia, 480 North Bedford Road, at Chappaqua Crossing, Chappaqua. Open daily from noon to 10 p.m. 914-855-0123 www.biaamericankitchen.com
SPRING HUDSON VALLEY RESTAURANT WEEKS
THRU APRIL 13TH!
This popular dining out promotion, originally created and sponsored by The
Valley Table Magazine, will include approximately 140 restaurants, past participants and some new ones from all over the Hudson Valley. Patrons are always anxious to cash in on the seasonal bounty at reasonable prices. There are added price options this year. Restaurants are expected to offer prix fixe luncheons for $24.95 or $39.95, and 3-course dinners for $29.95 or $44.95. Beverage, tax & tip are not included. Dinein or take-out. Sometimes there are caveats, so be sure to verify the hours and the menus. Reservations are advised. For additional information and an up-to-date list of participating restaurants go to: https://valleytable.com/restaurant-week/ (Morris Gut is a restaurant marketing consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in the Bronx & Westchester for 30 years. He may be reached at: 914-235-6591. E-mail: gutreactions@optonline.net)
Burrata Burger with fries at Bia.
