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MAY 2017 HEALTH, WELLNESS, AND NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

PRESENTED BY

EDITOR’S NOTE

NEWSPAPER READING IS A HABIT DON’T BREAK THE HABIT!

Take Time to Listen to Your Body No one needs to remind us that Blacks face greater health challenges than our white counterparts – from diabetes and obesity to HIV and cancer. But that doesn’t’ mean we have to lead the way in self-fulfilling prophecy. Members of the African-American community can, if we are so inclined and diligent in our efforts, follow a few simple tips that medical officials say will add years to our lives and improve the quality of those additional years. Still, the question remains are we willing to make the changes? I, for one, am already

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ter and making a person healthier. But we must first face the facts. More than three-in-four Black adults are over-

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weight or obese. And excess weight in...Informing you everyday in every way

creases the chance of certain cancers, heart

This health supplement focuses on prevention and awareness. And there are simple ways to prevent serious health problems and prevent other ailments from becoming fixtures in our lives.

disease and stroke, high blood pressure, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes. Ask your physician what a healthy weight is for you and be prepared to lose weight.

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016 by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 574-3785 news@washingtoninformer.com www.washingtoninformer.com

Instead of those fried chicken lunches, try drinking milk, eating dark and leafy vegetables like collard greens or kale, cutting back on sugar-sweetened beverages like soda and sports drinks and start eating more

PUBLISHER Denise Rolark Barnes

whole grains like oatmeal, whole wheat bread and brown rice.

STAFF D. Kevin McNeir, Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Assistant Photo Editor John E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editor Dorothy Rowley, Online Editor ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Dr. Charles Vincent, Social Sightings columnist Tatiana Moten, Social Media Specialist Angie Johnson, Circulation REPORTERS Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Will Ford (Prince George’s County Writer), Hamil Harris, Tatyana Hopkins, D. Kevin McNeir, Lauren Poteat, Dorothy Rowley, Sarafina Wright (General Assignment Writer) Jade James-Gist

Choose steamed veggies, water, sugar-free coffee or tea and initiate an exercise regimen. Exercise should be added to your routine slowly at first, like walking briskly for just 10 minutes, either before work or during your lunch hour as well as after dinner, so that your daily total is 30 minutes. But you can also do gardening or even add aerobics. And to make it fun, add a friend or two. You can even do housework with more energy, park farther away from your intended destination or get off public transportation a few blocks from home base and walk the rest of the way. Finally, write down your goals and then track your progress. This health supplement focuses on prevention and awareness. And there are simple ways to prevent serious health problems and prevent other ailments from becoming fixtures in our lives. Improving our health can be fun – but first we must listen to our bodies and then be willing to

PHOTOGRAPHERS John E. DeFreitas, Shevry Lassiter, Roy Lewis, Travis Riddick, Demetrious McKinney, Lateef Mangum, Mark Mahonney

make a few changes. So, are you ready? Yes? Then, ready, set, go!

D. Kevin McNeir

Editor Washington Informer

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

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Cancer Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Submitted by United Medical Center

When it comes to aches, pains, and other health problems, many ailments seem minor. But just because something seems minor does not mean you should not take it seriously. In fact, research shows that some common, seemingly minor ailments are actually the first warning signs of cancer. Unfortunately, many people ignore such signs and symptoms or underestimate how serious they are—and the thought of cancer rarely comes to mind. Thankfully, for the vast majority, these ailments or warning signs will not indicate cancer. But for a few people, they might. Going to the doctor to get your symptoms checked--sooner rather than later-could save your life. No symptom should ever be ignored or overlooked, especially if it has lasted a long time or is getting worse.

SYMPTOMS TO TAKE SERIOUSLY

For example, unusual bleeding. For both men and women, blood in the stool could be a sign of colon or rectal cancer, while blood in the urine can signal bladder or kidney cancer. Unexplained vaginal bleeding could indicate cervical or endometrial cancer and coughing up blood can signal lung cancer. Unusual bleeding can occur during any phase of cancer and definitely warrants a visit to your doctor to examine further. Nowadays, most people associate lumps or bumps in the breasts as potential warning signs of breast cancer and know to have any strange lumps checked out by

a doctor. However, often people overlook other symptoms, such as A red, sore, or swollen breast or nipple irritation and changes, that can also be a sign of breast cancer. Then there’s coughing. Often, coughs are associated with colds, flu, asthma, acid reflux, or other respiratory infections, and they go away in days or a few weeks. But a persistent cough that lingers can be a symptom of lung cancer. If you do not smoke, then there is little chance that a lingering cough is a sign of cancer. But if your cough does not go away— particularly if you are a smoker—then see your doctor right away. More than half of people diagnosed with lung cancer have a chronic cough at the time of diagnosis.

CANCER SCREENING MATTERS

Getting screened for cancer is one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself healthy. Screening can help doctors not only find cancer, but in some cases, screening can also detect pre-cancerous conditions that can be treated before cancer has a chance to develop. Regular screening is linked to early detection, which is important because when abnormal tissue or cancer is found early, it may be easier to treat. Often, by the time symptoms appear, cancer may have begun to spread and is harder to treat. From risk and screening, to diagnosis and treatment, United Medical Center (UMC) expert physicians and staff can help you every step of the way. As part of our commitment to working for a healthier community, UMC

will host a Cancer Awareness Day on Saturday, May 20, 2017, to help community members learn about cancer risk, screening, treatment options, and tips for staying healthy. Attendees will walk away equipped and empowered to make healthier lifestyle changes STOMA CH CANCE R

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that can lower their cancer risks; to take charge of their health by getting the right recommended screenings based on their age, gender and risk factors; and to ask questions and address any concerns they may have with their doctor. TESTIC

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This article is meant to offer general health information. Please call us at 202.574.6141 or speak to your physician for a medical assessment of any symptoms you may have. #UMC #UMCcancerday

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CANCER awareness Sat. May 20, 2017 DAY 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

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UMC—1310 Southern Avenue, SE, DC Continental breakfast and lunch will be served.

What you need to know to save your life.

Join us for our free Community Cancer Awareness Day to help increase cancer awareness, prevention and early detection. LEARN ABOUT: Lung, breast, prostate, colon and other cancers.

Cancer patients, survivors, families and the community-at-large are all invited and encouraged to attend!

Scan here or go online.

RSVP BY MAY 17TH

www.united-medicalcenter.com #UMCcancerday Event is free, but registration is encouraged.

For more information: Call Pearly Ittickathra at 202.574.6749

Continental breakfast & lunch, gift cards & give-aways.

Not-For-Profit Hospital Corporation 1310 Southern Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20032

202.574.6000 www.united-medicalcenter.com

Physicians ponder the next step for a patient facing symptoms characteristic of early cancer. /Courtesy photo

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UnitedMedicalCenterDC

Working for a healthier community.

MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

@UMC_DC

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Break the Cycle: Overcoming Opioid and Substance Use Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia The United States is in the middle of an opioid crisis. Although some opioids can help people, they are highly addictive and can be misused. Misuse of opioids can be unsafe for both people and communities. For instance, opioid overdoses caused about 33,000 deaths in 2015. That’s about 91 people each day. People all over the country are taking a stand and working to end opioid misuse.

OPIOID BASICS

Opioids, also known as painkillers, can be used to relieve pain when prescribed by a doctor. But some people misuse opioids by using them for non-medical reasons. Opioids can be prescription drugs or street drugs. Prescription opioids can include oxycodone (ox-ee-koh-dohn) or morphine. Heroin, a street drug, is also an opioid. Using heroin or taking opioids differently than prescribed can be fatal. Substance and opioid use problems can be felt in the District of Columbia today. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 11.3 percent of people in the District over age 11 use or are dependent upon drugs or alcohol. This is higher than the U.S. average of 8.9 percent and is the highest rate in the country. Opioid side effects can include: • Drowsiness • Constipation • Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat • Nausea and vomiting • Itchiness • Sweating • Addiction • Overdose • Death Someone with a substance use disorder may want to quit their drug use, but it can be hard to ask for help. A person using opioids may not know where to go or might be afraid of judgment. The good news is that you can recover from opioid and substance misuse. The first step is to learn about the signs of misuse and the help options available.

PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES

Many opioids are used as med-

icine. A doctor or hospital may give a person a painkiller to manage pain or a long-term illness. These drugs often come in a pill or liquid form. Some common prescription opioids include: • Morphine • Oxycodone (OxyContin® and Percoset®) • Hydrocodone (Vicodin®) • Fentanyl • Codeine • Meperidine (Demerol®) When used as directed, these drugs can help people with serious health issues. But when they are misused, they can lead to problems like addiction. Opioid misuse happens when a person takes drugs in the wrong way. This includes using street drugs or taking medicines not prescribed for you or differently than prescribed. If a family member gives you 1 of his or her pills, or if you take more pills than directed, then you are misusing the medicine. Misuse is a concern with opioids because of their strength. Up to 1 in 4 people taking prescrip-

tion opioids for a long-term illness will struggle with addiction. And the chance of addiction is greater when a person misuses the medicine. More than 4 million Americans were using medicines for non-medical reasons in 2014. Almost 2 million of those users were dependent on pain relievers. There are several risk factors that can lead to opioid misuse, such as: • Having a mental illness • Having a history of other substance use, including drugs and alcohol • Taking high daily doses of pain relievers Not everyone with the above risk factors will misuse opioids. Many people use prescription opioids to manage long-term pain and health conditions. If you receive a prescription opioid for a health condition, you should not stop taking it unless directed by your doctor. Since opioids are so strong, it can be difficult to stop taking them. Stopping suddenly can be

dangerous. People quitting opioids can suffer from withdrawal symptoms, like sweating, bone and joint pain, tremors, and vomiting or diarrhea. Your doctor can help you to stop taking opioids safely.

HEROIN

Heroin is an illegal opioid that appears as a white or brown powder. It can also appear as a black, sticky substance, known as “black tar heroin.” Nicknames for heroin are horse, H, and smack. Heroin is usually injected with a needle, smoked, or sniffed up the nose. Heroin is a fast-acting drug, which makes it highly addictive. Almost 23 percent of heroin users are dependent on the drug. There were more than 430,000

regular heroin users in the United States in 2014 — about 10 percent of all opioid users. Most heroin users also use other substances. About 3 out of 4 new heroin users first used prescription opioids before trying heroin. Many of those users take both heroin and prescription opioids at the same time. People addicted to prescription opioids are nearly 40 times more likely to also be addicted to heroin. Unlike prescription drugs, heroin is not made in a laboratory. Because of this, the strength of heroin can vary. The drug is often mixed with other materials like sugar and starch. Sometimes it is mixed with other drugs, or with toxic or harmful chemicals.

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CYCLE from Page HS-4 Someone using heroin never knows what is in the drug, which can be dangerous and even fatal. In 2015, nearly 13,000 people died because of the drug. Heroin may have more side effects than other opioids. For example, people who inject the drug are at risk for diseases like HIV or hepatitis C. These diseases spread through the blood or other bodily fluids. People sharing needles could get the diseases from another user. Overdoses are also a greater threat for heroin users. Although heroin users make up only 10 percent of all opioid users, they account for nearly half of all opioid overdose deaths. If you or someone you know is using heroin, or is at risk for using heroin, help is available. Speak with your doctor or call 1 of our Care Coaches to learn more about your health options.

OTHER SUBSTANCES

There are many substances besides opioids that can be dangerous. Some of these are illegal drugs, while others are legal but may be unsafe when used in excess. • Cigarettes and tobacco products: Tobacco can be found in cigarettes, cigars, snuff, and

chewing tobacco. It contains nicotine, an addictive substance. The use of tobacco causes many serious health problems, including lung cancer, oral cancer, bronchitis (bron-ki-tis), and emphysema (em-fa-ze-ma). It also increases the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Many opioid users first start by using drugs like marijuana and cocaine. Some of those users will continue using multiple drugs at the same time. This can cause harmful drug interactions. The chance of dangerous side effects including death increases when taking several drugs at once.

• Marijuana: Marijuana is a drug that can be inhaled or eaten. It is illegal in much of the United States, and its use is governed by law where it is allowed. In the District, marijuana use is legal on private property. It is not legal to sell the drug or to use it in a public place. Health effects of marijuana use include changes in mood, slow thinking and movement, breathing problems, and paranoia.

FINDING HELP

• Cocaine: Cocaine is an illegal drug that looks like a fine, white powder. It can also appear as rock crystals known as crack. Cocaine is snorted through the nose, rubbed into the gums, injected, or smoked as crack. Side effects of cocaine use include changes in blood pressure, faster heartbeat, the loss of the sense of smell, and addiction. People who inject cocaine are also at risk for HIV and hepatitis C. It is possible to overdose on the drug, which can lead to death.

Although prescription opioids can help some people, there are many risks if opioids are misused. If you or someone you know is using drugs, there is treatment available that can help. There are resources in the District of Columbia to help Medicaid members with their substance use problems. The DC Department of Health Addiction, Prevention, and Recovery Administration (APRA) can aid you to recover and improve your health. You can contact APRA at 202-727-8473. The DC Department of Behavioral Health may also be able to help and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 1-888-793-4357. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They do more than suicide prevention and can help with issues like drug and alcohol use. They can also connect you to a nearby professional to assist you. Call them

anytime at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). For people who want to quit taking drugs, there may be medicines that can help cope with withdrawal. Ask your primary care provider (PCP) about what treatments would be best for your condition. AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia members can call us to be connected with a Care Coach. Our Care Coaches can help you make sense of your

health care options. Call us at 1-800-408-7511 to learn more about how you can break the cycle of opioid misuse. Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration; National Institute on Drug Abuse; National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model. HS

The United States is in the middle of an opioid crisis. Although some opioids can help people, they are highly addictive and can be misused. Misuse of opioids can be unsafe for both people and communities.

I got a gift card for getting my prenatal checkup. You can too. You can get a $25 gift card if you: • Are pregnant and within your first trimester

Rewards Program

• Are an AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia member • See a midwife or OB/GYN for your first prenatal office visit

Visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com/giftcard to learn more. Note: Member cannot get more than $50 in incentives each year. AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com 5400ACDC-17208

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MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

A Smile to Remember By Community of Hope

Relaxed and excited about dental care, Terry Boone talks with a Community of Hope dental team member at the Conway Health and Resource Center in Bellevue.

Looking for a doctor or dentist? visit the CONWAY HEALTH AND RESOURCE CENTER

✔ Special Support for Pregnant Moms and New Families ✔ Care for Your Whole Family

✔ Most Insurance and Medicaid Plans Accepted ✔ Open Saturdays

“At Community of Hope, I can get care

for my daughter, baby and me in one place.” —Crystal Cox and family, patients

CALL NOW! 202.540.9857

Many people don’t get routine check-ups because they fear dental visits. Dr. Karim makes patients feel comfortable while in the dentist chair by talking them through what she is doing.

MEDICAL

202.540.9862

DENTAL

This program is funded in part by the Government of the District of Columbia Department of Health.

www.communityofhopedc.org

“A great smile says it all,” according to Terry Boone, a dental patient at Community of Hope’s Conway Health and Resource Center at Atlantic and South Capital Streets, SW. The D.C. native describes himself as a man of many hats – a banquet cook, an ad-jingle-making musician, and a martial arts enthusiast. His passions have taken him all over the East Coast, meeting many people along the way. “But what people really remember me for is my smile,” he says. He credits the friendly dentists at Community of Hope for his smile. Mr. Boone has been a dental patient since Community of Hope opened the doors of the Conway Health and Resource Center in 2014. He is happy that accessible, quality and affordable dental care is in his Bellevue neighborhood. “I walk in and feel immediately at home – the staff is nice and caring. I knew I was in the right place to put me in line with my health!” Mr. Boone has come to Community of Hope for all his oral health needs like annual cleanings, fillings and root canal and wisdom teeth referrals. He looks forward to his visits with our dental team. Dr. Halima Karim, Community of Hope’s Dental Director, says her team loves to improve smiles. “The best part of our job is helping patients feel more comfortable about their smile,” she said. Dr. Karim said she likes to talk with patients and understand what the patient’s goals are and

share treatment options. But, she adds, there’s something more important than a beautiful smile – good oral health. “I try to remind patients that the mouth is what you use every day, anything you put in the mouth affects your body,” she said. “Our mouths and bodies are connected. People with gum disease may have risk factors for heart disease or diabetes.” Dr. Karim says that she stresses that routine dental check-ups can prevent a lot of oral health problems. Many people don’t get routine check-ups because they fear dental visits. Dr. Karim makes patients feel comfortable while in the dentist chair by talking them through what she is doing. It helps both kids and adults. Boone says he feels at ease with the Community of Hope dental staff. “It’s like catching up with long-time friends – I share my life events with staff, inviting them to my upcoming food shows or band gigs. It’s special to have a place where I can do that,” he said. Paying attention to his oral health has made Mr. Boone more conscious about his overall health too. He’s now watching the ingredients he puts in his food, especially working in the food industry. “Community of Hope has shown me what small changes can do – starting with flossing more,” he said. Last year, Community of Hope provided compassionate healthcare to 9,825 patients. They have enrollment assisters available to sign up people who need insurance and offer a sliding fee scale to patients. HS

4 Atlantic Street, SW, Washington, DC 20032

Our Family Caring for Yours

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

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Seeing Clearer with Age

Seniors beware of eye diseases prevalent among the elderly By Candace Y.A. Montague WI Contributing Writer

procedure and most patients regain improved vision.

Are you struggling to read these words right now? Do they look cloudy, dark or spotty in some places? When was the last time you had an eye exam? If you cannot remember, then maybe it’s time for a checkup. Healthy aging involves monitoring all parts of the body and the eyes are no exception. Eye disease can affect anyone but it’s particularly important for those of advancing age to monitor the health of their eyes. African-American seniors are at high risk for eye disease and blindness – more than twice as likely to develop diabetic retinopathy and four times more likely to go blind from glaucoma as compared to their white counterparts. When it comes to eye concerns there are several diseases for which physicians will look during exams for the elderly.

DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

As the name implies, diabetic retinopathy is related to diabetes and African Americans are twice as likely to develop it. When blood sugar levels remain high for an extended period it can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina. Diabetic Retinopathy [DR] doesn’t present symptoms in the early stages but it can cause blindness if it isn’t caught. DR is irreversible but early detection and controlling blood sugars can prevent further damage.

the doctor until they start having problems. But remember diseases such as glaucoma are incurable. Regular eye exams allow us to catch this disease early and then prescribe medication to prevent the effects of vision loss or creating any more damage.” In many cases, eye diseases are age related and it is highly recommended that seniors get their exams every one-to-two-years to prevent further decline. Most eye diseases are silent and while patients would not typically re-

port any discomfort a dilated eye exam can reveal a deeper issue. Dr. Joseph offers three health tips for good vision preservation. “Wearing sunglasses to protect against the effects of UV rays is good to do. Maintaining a good diet that includes lots of antioxidants and vitamins will help. And don’t smoke. People may not make the connection right away but smoking can increase the risk of eye disease.”

HYPERTENSIVE RETINOPATHY

GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma affects the optic nerve. When fluid builds on the front part of the eye it causes intraocular pressure and, in turn, damage to the nerves. There are two forms of glaucoma: primary open-angle and angular closure. Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness for people over 60 and it does not typically present symptoms. Open-angle glaucoma cannot be prevented but vision loss can be prevented with early treatment.

CATARACTS

Cataract is clouding of the eye’s natural lens. When people develop cataracts, things tend to look cloudy, lights seem brighter or colors seem faded. Cataracts is the leading cause of vision loss and African Americans are 1.5 times more likely to develop it. The good news is cataract can be treated with bifocal glasses or other visual aids in its early stages. Surgery to remove cataracts is a common, successful outpatient

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Dr. Andrea Joseph, optometrist and co-owner of Joseph and Bass Eye Associates” / courtesy photo

It’s difficult to imagine that high blood pressure can affect the eyes but it can. Similar to diabetes, blood pressure that has been elevated for a long period of time can damage the blood in the retina. It can also cause damage to the eye nerves. Dr. Andrea Joseph, optometrist and co-owner of Joseph and Bass Eye Associates, located at Andrews Air Force Base in Temple Hills, Maryland, says regular eye exams remain the first line of defense. “A lot of people don’t come to

MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Keep your eyes healthy by adhering to the guidelines for regularly scheduled eye exams and maintaining good overall health. A good pair of eyes is a once in a lifetime opportunity. HS Candace Y.A. Montague is an award-winning freelance health journalist in Washington, D.C. She has been contributed to several print and online news organizations including The Washington Post and The Black AIDS Institute Weekly Newsletter. Follow her on Twitter @urbanbushwoman9

Myths about Eyes and Vision Compiled by Jade James-Gist WI Contributing Writer

#1 Reading in dim light hurts your eyes

The only thing poor lighting will do is make you tired. Reading in dim light won’t damage your eyesight, but it does get harder to do as you get older.

#2 Too much computer or phone screen time can damage your eyes

Not true. While too much blue light emanating from your screens may interrupt your sleep cycle, your eyes themselves won’t sustain any damage. But watch out for Computer Vision Syndrome which is caused by prolonged screen time. The condition can cause dry eyes, neck pain, back pain and headaches. Enact time limits for video games and computer screens if you notice you or your child complaining of these symptoms.

#3 Children receive adequate eye care at school

Children who don’t see well don’t learn well. If your child’s school offers vision screenings at all, a screening conducted by untrained school personnel won’t be as reliable as a comprehensive eye and vision examination by trained professionals. A child who can read an eye chart from 20 feet away will pass the school nurse’s “distance test,” meaning conditions like astigmatism and physical eye abnormalities will fall under the radar.

#4 If my child needs glasses, “they’ll” tell me

Regular optometry appointments are just as important as pediatric visits for young children. In truth, many children don’t realize they have vision problems until deep into elementary or middle school. According to physicians, the first eye check-up should be at six months and annual vision screenings should start at 3 or 4 years old. Early signs of physical eye movement issues like amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (eye misalignment/cross eyed) can be caught and treated promptly with patches, special eyewear, vision training or surgery. If not, a lifetime of poor vision could follow.

#5 Vision will inevitably get worse as you age

This is only half-true. Everyone knows a pair of reading glasses is in their future. However, more serious age-related eye conditions (listed below) are largely preventable and most are responsive to exercise, lowered sugar intake and other healthy diet changes: • Glaucoma – Increasing vision loss from intra-eye pressure on the optic nerve • Retinopathy - Retina degradation and vision damage due to sugar intake by diabetic patients • Macular degeneration - The leading cause of blindness in Americans over 65 Along with presbyopia, or age-related far-sightedness, normal symptoms of eye aging include: • Dry eyes • Smaller pupil size - Eyes more vulnerable to light damage and less able to read or carry out activities in low light • Cataracts – Cause blurry vision most commonly from protein buildup in the lenses

#6 An elderly person’s eyesight can spontaneously improve

After using reading glasses for some time, older people may find that they can read without them. The truth is that they are becoming more nearsighted which can be a sign of early cataract development, a condition requiring surgery to correct.

#7 Eating carrots will improve vision

Parents will tell their kids anything to bring about a desired result. The presentation of carrots on a dinner plate is often prefaced by the adage, “Eat all your carrots and you will always have good eyesight!” Is there any truth to this statement, or is it a bunch of baloney? Since the Middle Ages, carrots have been heralded as miracle vegetables and were thought to cure anything from snakebites to STDs. Carrots do provide many benefits for healthy vision but eating them every day will not restore vision to 20/20. Because they’re rich in vitamin A and lutein, they are always a good choice for a nutrient-packed snack. So, keep packing those carrot sticks in the school lunches, mom. But don’t expect X-ray vision from little Tommy. He will still need to wear his glasses every day. HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

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Rewards Program

I got a gift card for getting my sugars checked. You can too. You can get a $25 gift card if you: • Are 18 – 75 years old • Are an AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia member

• Have type 1 or 2 diabetes • See your doctor for hemoglobin A1C and nephropathy exams

After your exam, you can sign up for a gift card to 1 of these retailers: • Wal-Mart

• H&M

• Chipotle

• Downtown Locker Room (DTLR)

5400ACDC-17209

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MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

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The Magic of Marijuana By Brittany E. Tillman, CHES For decades recreational and medicinal use of marijuana has been a tug of war between the advocates and the lawmakers who don’t realize the benefits, despite scientific research. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) marijuana is a Schedule I drug; which details the drug as having no medicinal usefulness. As of 1992 the DEA rejected to reschedule the drug as Schedule II with medicinal usefulness. Research and firsthand accounts of people who use marijuana whether for recreational use or medicinal would argue the DEA’s perspective. The laws have become more lenient. States like Colorado, California, Massachusetts, Maine, Nevada and the District of Columbia (DC) to name a few have legalized marijuana in some form or fashion. Over 23 states have medical marijuana programs. States may fully support decriminalizing marijuana and supporting its medical usefulness, but the federal government is not in total support. This is shocking because

the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Marinol (synthetic marijuana) in 1985 to treat the suppressed appetites of cancer chemotherapy patients and nausea of AIDS patients. Marinol yields a stronger “high” but is a Schedule III drug by the DEA; which supposedly has less potential for abuse. Recreational and medicinal users would object that marijuana has high potential for abuse but rather support the limited abuse potential, relative to other drugs like cocaine, crack cocaine or alcohol. It has been suggested by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that medical marijuana has played a role in the decrease of opioid prescription and overdose deaths. There are hundreds of cannabinoids in the marijuana plant but the two of medical interest are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is what gives the sense of being “high” and increases your appetite (munchies); reduces nausea; decreases inflammation; decreases pain and a host of other benefits. CBD doesn’t give the

This Year, Skip the Perfume

“high”, but can also reduce pain and inflammation; control epileptic seizures; possibly treat addictions and mental illness and more. All across the Metropolitan Area (DMV) people are using medical and recreational marijuana and not just in the form of joints but in edibles and drinkables. This magical natural plant has a vast array of medicinal benefits: 1. Glaucoma 2. Reverse carcinogenic effects of tobacco on the lungs of smokers 3. Control epileptic seizures 4. Decrease Dravet’s Syndrome seizure symptoms 5. Stop proliferation of cancer cells 6. Decrease anxiety 7. Can potentially slow the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease 8. Pain reduction for Multiple Sclerosis 9. Decrease muscle spams 10. Decrease Hepatitis C side effects 11. Treat Chron’s disease associated inflammatory

bowel syndrome 12. Arthritis discomfort 13. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 14. Boosts metabolism 15. Treat tremors associated with Parkinson’s Disease 16. Protect the brains from damage of Stroke victims 17. Treats chemotherapy associated nausea and appetite loss 18. Treats nausea associated with AIDS With so many benefits that outweigh the minimal side effects to this magical and natural plant you would think that it would be legal; which leaves you to wonder why is it not? HS

You’re the apple of her eye, her shining star. This year for Mother’s Day, when you think of gifts, think differently. Instead of giving the ladies in your life their favorite fragrance, do something new. Consider these three ways to make the day memorable and meaningful: Go for a walk in the park. Plan to take a walk at a local park: it’s a great way to keep active. The National Eye Institute recommends maintaining a healthy weight to keep eyes healthy. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing diabetes and other conditions that can lead to vision loss, such as diabetic eye disease or macular degeneration. Enjoy a healthy brunch. Whether you decide to whip it up yourself or plan on taking her to a great restaurant, be sure she makes food choices that include leafy green veggies, which can help

Health Neurotics, LLC is an emerging health promotion firm in Washington, DC offering health promotion consultation products and services. Health Neurotics specialize in diet and physical activity aspects of health promotion and health education for adolescents using health literacy standards and cultural competence to targeted demographics. One of our most celebrated efforts was a guest appearance on Sirius XM Shade 45 nationally syndicated radio show, First Aid with Kelly Kinkaid focusing on Diabetes Awareness Month. Our soon to be available highlighted invention, Body Cycle is a software application game for adolescents 12 and older to actively engage in learning about chronic disease and behavior change.

to keep eyes healthy. Research has also shown there are eye health benefits from eating fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut. Schedule an eye exam. There’s no substitute for the quality of life that good vision offers. In advance of Mother’s Day, be sure to schedule a comprehensive dilated eye exam for her. As we age, we are at increased risk for eye diseases and conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Many diseases have no early warning signs but can be detected through a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Give her a gift that will help her see her best and be her best. Early detection and treatment can help prevent vision loss. For more information on eye health, visit www.nei.nih.gov/healthyeyes.

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

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Good News, Bad News for African-American Health By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer The overall death rate for African Americans in the U.S. has declined about 25 percent in recent years. However, the life expectancy of African Americans remains four years less than that of whites, according to the latest report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The report noted that younger African Americans are more likely to live with or die from conditions typically found in older whites, like heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Blacks saw notable declines in age-specific deaths related to heart disease, cancer and HIV from 1999 to 2015, said Timothy Cunningham, an epidemiologist at the CDC Division of Population Health and lead author of the new report. “Death rates from HIV among Blacks went down about 80 percent in 18-to-49-year-olds,” Cunningham said. Dramatic decreases in HIV deaths were seen among whites too, the data showed. Yet a racial disparity remains, as Blacks are still more likely to die from HIV, the report said.

The data also revealed that Blacks in the 18-to-34 and 35-to49 age groups were nearly twice as likely to die from heart disease, stroke and diabetes as whites. For African Americans 18-to64, data showed that they were at a higher risk of early death than whites. “These findings are generally consistent with previous reports that use the term ‘weathering,’ which suggests that Blacks experience premature aging and earlier health decline than whites and that this decline in health accumulates across the entire lifespan and potentially across generations,” said Leandris Liburd, the director of the CDC’s Office of Minority Health and Health Equity. “This happens as a consequence of psychosocial, economic and environmental stressors,” Liburd said. For adults 65 and older, the racial death rate gap appeared to close, the data showed. In general, the leading causes of deaths for Blacks are heart disease, cancer and stroke, Liburd said. “I can’t say enough that we need to continue to understand both the relationship between social and economic conditions and how they impact health disparities and then identify ways that we can work

to improve those conditions,” she said. “African-American health is improving and many of the disparities we see in the chronic diseases are largely preventable.” The new report also pointed to social and economic conditions, such as poverty, limited access to health care, educational attainment and home ownership, as factors influencing the racial health gaps that remain. The report noted that Blacks have the highest death rate for all cancers combined compared with whites. Also, in all age groups, Blacks were more likely than whites to describe not being able to visit a doctor in the past year due to cost, according to the report. The National Urban League [NUL] recently released a separate report titled, “State of Black America 2017: Protect Our Progress.” That report revealed that health index for Black Americans grew from 79.4 percent in 2016 to 80 percent, which was partly due to greater access to healthcare because of the Affordable Care Act and a decrease in the number of overweight children. NUL President Marc Morial has urged the federal government to fully fund Medicaid and the

A nurse cares for her patient. /Courtesy photo

Children’s Health Insurance program while preventing a switch to block grants. He has also urged the government to protect the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, the Emergency Food Assistance Program and the National School Lunch Program.

Insufficient Sleep Associated with Prostate Cancer By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer Medical experts have routinely championed the importance of getting enough sleep. A good night’s rest, they say, reduces stress and even improves a person’s mood.

Now, researchers have gone a step further discovering that adequate sleep can help men avoid prostate cancer – a disease that’s had especially devastating effects in African-American communities. In a new study, medical officials found that men younger than 65

Lack of adequate sleep now linked to more men developing prostate cancer. /Courtesy photo

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who slept just three to five hours a night were 55 percent more likely to develop fatal prostate cancer than those who got the recommended seven hours of rest. The study, conducted by officials from the American Cancer Society, examined data from two large, long-term cohort studies. The first study followed more than 407,000 men between 1950 and 1972. The second followed more than 416,000 men from 1982 to 2012. All the men were cancer-free when the studies began. But more than 1,500 men in the first study and more than 8,700 men in the second study died of prostate cancer during the follow-up periods. During the first eight years of follow-up, men younger than 65 years old who slept between three and five hours per night had a 55 percent greater risk of dying from prostate cancer than those who slept seven hours per night. And six hours of sleep a night was linked to a 29 percent higher risk of prostate cancer death compared to seven hours, as prescribed

Meanwhile, Cunningham said it’s important to know that changes in mortality and life expectancy should be associated with improvements in health care access. “Individual behaviors are important, but one challenge we face is that we have to invest in the places where people live,” he said. HS

to evidence suggesting the importance of obtaining adequate sleep for better health,” said lead by the National Sleep Foundation. study author Dr. Susan Gapstur, Those who were age 65 or older vice-president of epidemiology at showed no difference in the risk the American Cancer Society. Dr. Gapstur added, however, of death from prostate cancer, no that more research is needed to matter how much they slept. About six of 10 cases of prostate better understand the biologic cancer are diagnosed in men aged mechanisms, so sleep-deprived males shouldn’t be alarmed. 65 or older. The findings do provide proof Every year, 1 out of 7 men receive a prostate cancer diagnosis that the body’s natural sleep-wake – odds that are far worse for Afri- cycle might play a role in prostate cancer development. can-American men. Not only does poor sleep turn As prostate cancer remains among the top causes of death off genes that protect against canfor American males, years of re- cer growth but past research has search have gone into studying the found that not getting enough disease, officials said. However, shuteye can inhibit production of scientists have yet to uncover the melatonin, a hormone that condisparity that exists among race trols the sleep-wake cycle. Low levels of melatonin can when it comes to developing proslead to an increase in genetic mutate cancer. According to the Prostate Can- tations, reduced DNA repair and cer Foundation, African-Ameri- a weakened immune system, accan men are nearly 1.6 times more cording to Dr. Gapstur. And, although the link between likely to develop prostate cancer than white men. They are also limited sleep and prostate cancer 2.4 times more likely than white isn’t clear, Dr. Gapstur said “a possibility is that the natural decline men to die from the disease. It’s a fact that makes the latest in nighttime melatonin levels as you age can reduce the relative imstudent important. “If confirmed in other studies, pact of lack of sleep.” HS these findings would contribute

MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Rewards Program

I got a gift card for taking care of my health. You can too. You can get a $25 gift card if you: • Are an AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia member

• Are 12 – 21 years old • Get an annual physical exam

After your exam, you can sign up for a gift card to 1 of these retailers: • Wal-Mart

• H&M

• Chipotle

• Downtown Locker Room (DTLR)

www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com 5400ACDC-17207

www.washingtoninformer.com / MAY 2017 HEALTH WELLNESS & NUTRITION SUPPLEMENT

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