d-mars.com Health & Wellness 35

May-June 15, 2014

Inspire, Inform & Educate

35th Edition

INSIDE

Working Together to Create a Healthy Community

Dedrea’s Story

By Lisa Bradley Everyone has heard of the phrase “going green.” Dedrea Tisdel opted to “go purple,” but it wasn’t by choice.

PAGE 6

Lupus: A Pain in the Foot

page 7

By Julie Lester, DPM Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that can affect organ systems throughout the entire body, including the brain, skin, blood vessels, kidneys, heart, lungs and joints.

Mental Illness in America

PAGE 11

Dental Fact: Tooth Decay and Gum Disease are Preventable!

By Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade As many as 23 percent of adults suffer from untreated tooth decay, which results in the damage of tooth structure.

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EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy Plans to Offer Even More Resources to the Community

Sensational Seafood Salad Recipes

“We can make a commitment to promote vegetables and fruits and whole grains on every part of every menu. We can make portion sizes smaller and emphasize quality over quantity. And we can help create a culture – imagine this – where our kids ask for healthy options instead of resisting them.”

– Michelle Obama

Now Hiring Experienced Therapist EZ Pediatric Therapy‌ expanding communication, growing minds.

Does your child ACE Communication?

Articulate Can she pronounce all sounds and words correctly?

Comprehend Does he fully understand what is said to him?

Express Does he use as many words as his peers when speaking?

Call Today for your free screening!

Office: 832.774.3333 5505 West Orem St., Suite 500 ezpediatricspeech.com

May-June 15, 2014

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Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

It takes a tremendous effort from all members of the community to help foster a healthy society. Some great examples of working together to create a healthy community are hosting health fairs and supporting healthy initiatives. What I’m saying is being healthy isn’t always an individual effort – it takes a team.

Our cover story focuses on a business run by a couple who has a sincere interest in providing healthy resources for the community.

Through their company EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy, they are helping provide speech and language therapy for the children who need it most. Their passion for what they do resonates throughout the families they touch. Read inside how they’re helping to create a healthier community!

As always again, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support d-mars.com, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

Contents EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy Plans to Offer Even More Resources to the Community................................................................ 4 DEDREA’S STORY: Lupus – The Good, Bad and the Ugly........................................................................................................................... 6 Mental Illness in America.................................................................................................................................................................................7 Sensational Seafood Salad Recipes............................................................................................................................................................. 8 In the Health Community….............................................................................................................................................................................10 The Greater Good............................................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Lupus: A Pain in the Foot................................................................................................................................................................................. 11 How’s your Health Mentally?......................................................................................................................................................................... 12 The Key to Managing Stress: Identify Causes and find Simple Solutions....................................................................................... 12 Computer Screens, Smartphones and TVs: Blue Light from Electronic Devices Raising Concerns for Eye Health.............16 Valerie Jones Lisa Bradley

Dental Fact: Tooth Decay and Gum Disease are Preventable!.............................................................................................................18

Jheri Bashen, MSW, LCSW Dallas Jones Julie Lester, DPM Rhonda Dallas d-mars.com News Provider Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade

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May-June 15, 2014

EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy Plans to Offer Even More Resources to the Community

By Valerie Jones Associate Editor

t isn’t always easy running a business with your significant other, but husband and wife Tony and LaSonja Henderson have mastered the art of running a successful business together while maintaining a healthy relationship.

A clear vision and vested love for children allowed for the establishing of EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy in 2011 and it opened its doors in August of 2013. EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy offers speech therapy and academic enrichment to children. The vision is to be a resource in the community by connecting families with needed support and helping them maintain continuity of care, even if they are not receiving their services from EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy.

LaSonja, affectionately known as “LJ,” serves as owner and director of therapy services, in which she screens all children that come in for speech and language deficits, hires all therapists, schedules evaluations and provides direct therapy and treatment to children with any type of developmental delays.

Tony is responsible for all the marketing for EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy…

LJ refers to him as the “social media group guru.”

Together, they have discovered a system that works.

“It is very difficult working with a spouse, especially when both of you are highly opinionated; however, what has worked for us is that we ‘stay in our own lane,’” said LaSonja. “We devised a strategy to determine what each one of us would be responsible for and basically, we don’t override each other’s decisions. This also helps us to stay overorganized so that we aren’t working on the same thing. Our energies are spent in the right places.”

The couple started their business by using their combined income tax returns in 2010 and have expanded their daycare to locations and paid for the build without using any loans. Though daycare wasn’t their original plan, because of their diligence, they now have their dream clinic. In 2004, they directed summer programs for Missouri City Parks and Recreation.

The Hendersons’ love for children stems from their own childhoods.

“Growing up as an only child with a single mother and being practically disowned by my father – I’ve always wanted to have younger brothers and sisters – I vowed that if I was ever blessed with children of my own, I would be the best dad I could be,” Tony said. “I’m firm with children like a father, but I will read a book or wipe a boo-boo like a big brother.”

LaSonja, who was born in Monroe, La. and raised in the small town of Kelly, lived with her grandparents until she was four years old and relocated to Houston. Her grandfather would pick her up on the last day of school and head back to Louisiana every summer until she was 15 years old.

“Every summer, I’d spend the summer with my cousins – 10 of us in one house fighting over who ate the last piece of fried bologna and drunk all the Kool-Aid – but we had a sense of family and shared everything. That experience taught me how to prepare myself because in the summer we had to chop enough wood to last all winter,” she said. “I didn’t understand why it seemed like so much, but one particular winter it was so cold that we almost ran out of wood but were able to make it through the cold season because we had prepared. I believe it’s that experience that inspires me to make certain the children [at EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy] are well-prepared beyond what their

HOW WE MET: Tony and LaSonja met at Spring Branch Hos-

pital where Tony was working as a radiology assistant and LaSonja was working three jobs paying her way through college. She was a PBX Operator. The pair dated for four months and LaSonja was in her final semester at Texas Southern University on the verge of quitting because of a difficult instructor. Tony told LaSonja she couldn’t quit and encouraged her to keep going. He allowed her to stop working and focus on graduating. Then, within two months, he proposed. The couple have been married 18 years.

May-June 15, 2014

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parents are able to provide for them financially. They need to be spiritually grounded and have character.”

LaSonja’s educational background, which includes a bachelor’s degree in communicative disorders from Texas Southern University; a master’s degree in communicative speech pathology from California State University and a master’s degree in education from Houston Baptist University, has given her the knowledge needed to run her business.

“I’ve been working since 1996 in education in almost every setting, and those experiences have given me the knowledge to help almost any family who comes through my door because I understand from the private sector standpoint as well as a district standpoint what their needs are,” LaSonja said. “I can also help them understand any paperwork and how to navigate and advocate for their child’s academic success.”

LaSonja’s philosophy on language: it’s not black or white; it’s green because those who command the language earn more. Every industry needs someone who can effectively articulate or write.

“Language is the one key that can unlock any door and has a universal passport because it take you anywhere you want to go,” she said.

Both Tony and LaSonja enjoy the challenges that come with owning their own business.

“Every day is different, but we look back on the number of families whose lives we were able to touch,” LaSonja said.

Future goals for EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy include offering three disciplines (speech therapy, physical and occupational) by 2015 and reaching the needs of the community by collaborating with local school districts by supporting district goals for standardized assessment.

“I have personally worked with school districts in our community working with third-grade students to prepare them for the STARR test this year and I was told that at least 40% of the children that I worked with did demonstrate improvement on their academic performance,” LaSonja said. “Our facility has the capability to provide academic enrichment and test-taking strategies to enhance students’ performance in our school district.”

The future looks bright for EZ Pediatric Speech Therapy and so far, The Hendersons have learned a tremendous amount about running a business.

“You cannot expect anyone to do what you aren’t willing to do. When owning a business, you have to be willing to work 18 to 24 hours a day if that’s what you want,” Tony said.

LaSonja added, “It’s important to support black businesses, but it’s more important that you support good business. If it’s black, that’s even better. I believe that all businesses should strive to be better than they were the day before. My philosophy is ‘people do not rise to low expectations, so expect more, do more and expect great things and do great work.’”

DEDREA’S STORY: 6.

May-June 15, 2014

By Lisa Bradley Contributing Writer

E

veryone has heard of the phrase “going green.” Dedrea Tisdel opted to “go purple,” but it wasn’t by choice.

Purple is the color that is correlated with Lupus awareness. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can damage any organs in the body as well as joints and skin. This disease destroys the ability to fight off disease that antibodies are known to eliminate. Knowing so, the body can’t detect healthy tissues from extraneous attackers of the body such as the flu or a common cold. Lupus is known for mimicking other illnesses which makes it challenging to identify, not to mention the symptoms are like a chameleon, as they can change at any given time. Red and white blood cells, along with platelets, are most affected for those with this disease, which is why blood disorders are prevalent more often than not. As the flare-ups come to fruition, one feels poorly; nevertheless, when those flare-ups are in remission, one can recuperate and the sick feeling subsides. Statistics have found that women are mostly affected by this disease as early as 15 to the age of 44, also deemed as the childbearing phase.

While this disease has no biases; it is two to three times more prevalent in women of color than Caucasians. There is a staggering five million individuals who have some form of lupus. While this disease can be mild for many, it can also be chronic – fatal even – so it is imperative to seek treatment from a doctor. Doing so can promote a life of longevity.

Almost 14 years ago, the life Dedrea once knew took a dramatic turn for the worse when unceasing pain became her reality. Aches, fatigue and loss of hair were a few symptoms that controlled her life and the prognosis of arthritis just didn’t seem accurate. After her symptoms were persistent for a twoyear span, Dedrea demanded answers and thereafter was diagnosed with lupus. The news was hard to hear and the thought of having to convey that to her husband, her boys, and her family in general was almost as difficult as learning the truth about her condition. Her husband, Pop, was the one that took it the toughest despite his strong faith in God. At first, the diagnosis was hard for her to accept because she had to come to terms with the fact that there was no cure for Lupus. She knew that just taking a pill wasn’t going to be the answer to ‘fix’ her.

This disease was something that she would have to endure for the rest of her life and that’s when hopelessness came to fruition. This only lasted for a time as she realized she was in the fight of her life and pity parties were no longer welcomed. She knew everyone was watching her response and it was important for her – and her family – to trust God like never before. She continues to ensure the importance of staying positive to her family. Dedrea later found out she needed a kidney and was placed on the donor list. After much anticipation, anxiousness and exhaustion from the process itself, she was blessed to have a donor right in the family. Her cousin Jeremy Dotson opted to get tested and was a match; however, there was one huge glitch. He was overweight; his BMI was said to be too high and overall he was just a big guy. Knowing so, Jeremy went into action. While he knew he needed to implement a lifestyle change, this was his motivation to make it happen. After all, his cousin needed him.

While Dedrea was humbled and excited about Jer-

Lupus – the Good, Bad and the Ugly

emy’s willingness to donate his kidney, she doubted at first he would follow through. She thought he was far too young and reality would set in and he would change his mind. Jeremy; on the other hand, felt that he wanted to be able to do something drastic in life and make a difference and this afforded him that opportunity. In January of 2013, Jeremy donated his kidney to his cousin. Life transformed once again for Dedrea as she was grateful, ecstatic and truly grateful for the opportunity. She now felt like she was in a bubble for approximately three months. She had a new kidney but she was confined to the house and cleanliness was an even greater priority as she could not be subjected to an environment that was less than stellar because the germs would be too much for her to bear.

Seven months later, the doctor stated that the kidney rejected and there again, Dedrea’s life was in shambles. She was angry, hurt, crying and questioning God as to why she had come to this point in her life and it was seemingly all for nothing.

She was confused with the nonchalant and aloof nature in which the doctor conveyed to her that she would need surgery to remove the kidney with which she had recently been blessed. She reflected on the six months she had that allowed her to be dialysis-free and lead somewhat of a normal existence. She eventually came to realize that it wasn’t about her kidney as she felt a match was just that, a match. It was her—her body—and it wouldn’t have mattered whose kidney she would have gotten. For whatever reason, it just wasn’t meant to be. At this point, Dedrea had dusted herself off, stopped feeling sorry for her situation and made it her business to continue to fight and share her story as well as the importance of getting medical treatment for this disease. She is back in dialysis three times a week. While Jeremy was disappointed that the kidney rejected, he felt not only guilty, but as if he had let his cousin down. He, too, believes that God does everything for a reason and a purpose, and this experience had connected them for life. They were close before, but he feels the bond with him and his cousin is not only unbreakable, but more powerful than ever.

Health is often taken for granted until it is depleted. Knowing so, it is imperative to get check-ups, eat a healthy diet and exercise. Jeremy was faced head-on with the importance of getting healthy.

Obesity is on the rise and healthy choices have taken a back seat for many. Don’t wait until the doctor tells you that you have a disease or a loved one needs an organ before you take your life back.

While Dedrea and her cousin Jeremy could be bitter about this experience, they are grateful for the opportunity and want others to know that all sickness does not lead to death. If someone needs you, no matter what the outcome, be willing to make a selfless act and do something about it. One of the greatest lessons Dedrea has learned is life is precious and should never be taken for granted.

If you or someone you know has Lupus, remember to stay positive and remove anything and anyone who isn’t optimistic as that behavior can lead to one’s defeat and cause unnecessary flare-ups. Please take heed to Dedrea’s advice and do your part. Take your medication, never feel sorry for yourself, and help others to realize that longevity of life is possible. Having faith will get you through. Visit www. lupus.org and join in the fight to solve this cruel disease and gain the knowledge to help you help others who are suffering from Lupus.

May-June 15, 2014

Mental Illness in America

By Jheri Bashen, MSW, LCSW Contributing Writer

A Brief History of Mental Illness:

I

n the 19th Century, people with severe mental illness were institutionalized by the hundreds of thousands in state mental hospitals also known as “insane asylums.” Conditions were often harsh and patients were mistreated. However, the "deinstitutionalization" movement that began in the 1960s gained steam in the '70s and '80s. Social workers and other advocates sought to create awareness of the challenges that mentally ill people face and many of the asylums were shut down.

Unfortunately, closing of these asylums did not mean the end to institutionalization. People with mental illness leave acute or chronic care facilities without adequate provisions for support and end up cycling into homeless shelters or the criminal justice system.

By the Numbers

There is a steady increase in people with mental illnesses being incarcerated in American jails or prisons – four times the number in state mental hospitals, according to the Department of Justice. "These days, the largest single provider of housing for people with severe mental illness is the criminal justice system," says Andrew Sperling, legislative director for the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. Those incarcerations are generally short-term and involve crimes like disturbing the peace or vagrancy. Other crimes include those related to substance abuse and other non-violent offenses. Some advocates suggest that the situation persists because of the stigma still attached to diseases of the mind.

The numbers of in-patient beds in state and county institutions for the mentally ill declined from 413,000 in 1970 to 119,000 in 1986. By the 1990s, the number fell well below 100,000. In Texas, the numbers are worse. Texas is ranked 79th in the nation for public spending on the mentally ill. As of 2010, there are 496,358 individuals with a mental illness in Harris County. Of those, 137,219 have

“Mental illness is an equal opportunity illness – it strikes across all barriers of race and class. Yet the public perception is still the disheveled person on the street.”

— Michael Allen, senior staff attorney at the Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law in Washington, D.C. severe and persistent mental illness (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder or Schizophrenia). Of those with severe mental illness, 86,000 have no public (Medicaid or Medicare) or private health insurance and are totally dependent on the public mental health service system for treatment. In 2012, approximately 69,800 adults with severe mental illness were unable to access treatment, according to the Mental Health Needs Council.

Unfortunately, even with The Affordable Care Act, treatment for the mentally ill is still a struggle. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, there are currently 2.7 million uninsured Americans that suffer from a major mental illness. Mental health patients who would qualify for insurance, such as Medicaid, but reside in opting out states have limited options.

“Nearly four million uninsured people with mental health conditions will be locked out of the health insurance system, and therefore lack access to timely, quality mental health services and a consistent source of care,” says Joel Miller, executive director of the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Mental Illness is a major problem. According to the Mental Health Needs Council, Inc., Ben Taub General Hospital Emergency Room treated more than 4,000 with mental illnesses each year in 2011 and 2012. In addition, the NeuroPsychiatric Center (NPC) currently treats more than 13,000 crisis episodes per year. The lack of available resources for follow-up care has placed a demand for crisis services at the NPC. The NPC has frequently exceeded capacity, forc-

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ing the facility to close its doors to new admissions more than 75 times in 2012.

Emergency services can meet immediate needs, but cannot support long-term community stabilization.

"Mental illness is an equal opportunity illness – it strikes across all barriers of race and class. Yet the public perception is still the disheveled person on the street," says Michael Allen, senior staff attorney at the Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law in Washington, D.C. Today's reality falls far short of the vision of four decades ago, when the deinstitutionalization movement was born. In theory, people were to move from mental hospitals into community mental health care systems, and be reintegrated into towns and neighborhoods where they'd get services and shelter. Several studies have shown the idea can work, and thousands of Americans with mental illness have benefited – but thousands more have failed to get adequate follow-up, treatment and assistance.

In the popular perception, mental illness is still often regarded as a mysterious, untreatable disease. However, studies have shown that the majority of people with mental illness can be successfully treated.

Most treatment today involves medication, sometimes combined with psychotherapy, also referred as “talk therapy,” or other methods. The National Alliance for Mental Illness says that the rate of success for treating a first episode of bipolar disorder is 80 percent; for major depression, 70 percent; and for schizophrenia, 60 percent.

Live Beautiful Now is a nonprofit organization founded in 2011 by Lora Rosemon, Carmen Martinez, Latarsha Mims and Jheri Bashen. Live Beautiful Now seeks to eliminate stigmas, educate the public, and advocate for those suffering with a mental illness. Live Beautiful Now holds a particular focus on Bipolar Disorder after the suicide of friend and family member Latrece Bell. Latrece is one of thousands of tragedies resulting from stigma, lack of adequate resources, and health insurance. It is time to break the barriers to treatment and educate our community.

If you would like more information on mental health and Live Beautiful Now, please e-mail info@livebeautifulnow.com or visit www.livebeautifulnow.org.

Notes and References:

Mental Health Needs Council, INC. (2013). Mental Illness in Harris County: Prevalence Issues of Concern Recommendations National Public Radio. (2002). People with Mental Illness Retrieved from URL: http://www.npr.org No Author. (2014, April 9). History of Mental Disorders Retrieved from URL: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_ mental_disorders U.S. News. (2014). Mental Health Now Covered Under ACA, but Not for Everyone. Retrieved from URL: http:// www.usnews.com

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May-June 15, 2014

Southwestern-Style Shrimp Taco Salad

Sensational Seafood Salad Recipes Chipotle-Rubbed Shrimp Taco Salad

Tuna and White Bean Salad

Cilantro, chipotle hot sauce, corn, black beans, and green onion lend fantastic southof-the-border flavor to this shrimp-topped taco salad.

Ingredients 1/4 cup fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon ground cumin 2 teaspoons minced garlic 2 teaspoons maple syrup 2 teaspoons chipotle hot sauce 3/4 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 ears shucked corn Cooking spray 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce 1/2 cup chopped green onions 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained 3 plum tomatoes, chopped 2 ounces baked blue corn tortilla chips (about 1 1/2 cups) 1/3 cup light sour cream 1/4 cup diced peeled avocado Lime wedges (optional) Instructions 1. Prepare grill to medium-high heat.

2. Combine lime juice, olive oil, cumin, garlic, syrup, and hot sauce in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk. Place the shrimp in a shallow bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of the lime juice mixture over shrimp, tossing gently to coat. Reserve the remaining lime juice mixture; set aside. Thread shrimp onto metal skewers. Lightly coat corn with cooking spray. Place shrimp kebobs and corn on a grill rack coated with cooking spray. Grill 8 minutes, turning kebobs once and turning corn frequently until browned.

Remove from grill; cool slightly.

3. Remove shrimp from skewers and place in a large bowl. Cut kernels from ears of corn. Add corn, chopped lettuce, green onions, cilantro, black beans, and plum tomatoes to shrimp. Drizzle reserved lime juice mixture over the shrimp mixture, and toss gently to combine.

4. Divide tortilla chips evenly among 6 shallow bowls; top each serving with 1 cup shrimp mixture.

Combine sour cream and diced avocado in a small bowl; mash with a fork until well blended. Top each serving with about 1 tablespoon sour cream mixture. Serve with a lime wedge, if desired.

Sweet, smoky, spicy, and fresh – you can’t go wrong with this healthier take on taco salad.

This sustainable, 30-minute meal is perfect for packed lunches.

Ingredients 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 3 tablespoons minced shallots 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 teaspoons honey 1/8 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 refrigerated (8-inch) flour tortilla taco salad shell kit (such as Azteca) 1 pound peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle chile powder 1/8 teaspoon salt Cooking spray 6 cups packaged pre-chopped romaine hearts 1 1/2 cups chopped peeled ripe mango (about 1 large) 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 4 radishes, quartered

Ingredients 20 asparagus spears 1 tablespoon capers, drained 1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon butter, melted 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered 1 (15-ounce) can organic white beans, rinsed and drained 4 cups torn butter lettuce (about 1 head) 2 (5-ounce) cans solid white tuna packed in olive oil, drained and broken into chunks

Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350°.

2. Combine first 5 ingredients in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk. Gradually add oil, stirring constantly with a whisk.

3. Bake tortilla shells at 350° according to package directions.

4. While shells bake, heat a grill pan over mediumhigh heat. Combine shrimp, chili powders, and salt in a large bowl; toss well to coat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add shrimp to pan; cook 2 minutes on each side or until done.

5. Combine lettuce, mango, tomato, and radishes.

Drizzle vinaigrette over salad; toss to coat. Place about 1 1/2 cups salad in each tortilla shell; divide shrimp evenly among salads.

Instructions 1. Snap off tough ends of asparagus spears. Steam asparagus, covered, for 3 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water; drain.

2. Combine capers and the next 7 ingredients (through pepper) in a small bowl, stirring well with a whisk.

3. Place 1/4 cup juice mixture, cherry tomatoes, and beans in a small bowl; toss gently to combine.

4. Place 1 cup lettuce on each of 4 plates, and top each serving with 5 asparagus spears. Spoon about 1/2 cup white bean mixture over each serving, and divide tuna evenly among servings. Drizzle each salad with about 1 tablespoon remaining juice mixture.

Sustainable Choice: Buy solid white (albacore) tuna. Look on the label for sustainable polecaught fish.

All photos and recipes courtesy of cookinglight.com.

May-June 15, 2014

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May-June 15, 2014

In the Health Community…

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The Greater Good

health insurance companies to increase consumer rates at any time for little or no reason.

I think you’d be hard pressed to find someone who thinks that any of what is mentioned above is a bad thing, no matter the political stance. Getting sick doesn’t know a political party –

By Dallas Jones or at least it shouldn’t.

Obamacare is by and far today’s Contributing Writer most politically divisive issue. Milfter months and lions of dollars have been poured into months of buildup campaigns both for and against the and anticipation, the law over the past year, and it’s only day has finally come going to get worse as mid-term elecand gone. After some tions draw near. Republicans will impressive wins, and talk about the disastrous rollout, the some even tougher losses, we are fi- “lackluster” number of people who nally past the finish line. No, I’m not have paid their premiums, and how talking about the Houston Astros’ sea- the ACA is another example of govson so far (although that’s a big deal, ernment overreach. Democrats will just like MLB’s Civil Rights Game champion its coverage of people preMay 30 in Houston is too!) No, what viously uncovered, its overall accessiwe are is now officially well past the bility, and its ability to clean up an first open enrollment period under industry that desperately needed it. the Affordable Care Act (ACA), our And while these arguments are all country’s new health law. politically viable, the conversation Otherwise known as Obamacare, shouldn’t be about politics – it should the ACA seeks to correct some of be about people. the fatal flaws that have plagued this Having spent quite a bit of time country’s health insurance system for working on the issue over the past few years. Gone are the days of being de- months, I’ve learned just how personnied coverage due to a pre-existing al it can be. Each person that I had condition. No more are insurance the opportunity to encounter had his plans that neglect to offer preventive or her own personal story as to why care. Cured is the system that allowed this was important. Maybe it was be-

A

cause they were recently laid off and needed coverage in the interim between jobs. Or maybe it was that their son was previously denied coverage because he was diagnosed with clinical depression years ago. Or maybe it was that they could finally enroll in a plan because they could finally afford it. Notice how there were no politics involved? Weird, I know.

Unfortunately, these stories aren’t the ones being told.

Due in part to the 24-hour news cycle and the media always looking to cover the biggest controversy of the day to help boost ratings, these personal stories are often the ones pushed under the rug. Sure, supporters of the law will prop these stories up, but they will likely go no further than the kitchen table. That said, the true blame doesn’t lie with the media; it lies on us. We spend so much time arguing the politics of an issue that we oftentimes forget what the issue is or why we were arguing in the first place. We sometimes argue all the minutia of an issue until the bigger picture becomes lost on us. And in that lies the true problem.

The issue of health care in this country should be an easy one. We are the most advanced country in the world but yet we still have people who can’t afford, or will go broke trying to afford, the skyrocketing costs

L

By Julie Lester, DPM Contributing Writer

upus is an autoimmune disorder that can affect organ systems throughout the entire body, including the brain, skin, blood vessels, kidneys, heart, lungs and joints. Patients may experience extreme fatigue, unexplained lowgrade fever and generalized joint pain.

The immune system becomes overactive, causing antibodies (which are normally designed to protect from disease and damage) to attack various body tissues.

Lupus can manifest itself in many different ways and affect each patient differently. Some may experience symptoms involving one or a combination of all of the aforementioned body systems. Since some of the more debilitating symptoms can involve the feet and ankles, often time podiatrists can be instrumental in the diagnosis of and treatment of accom-

lead to nerve damage in the fingers and toes, causing numbness and tingling. In severe cases, open sores can develop and special care must be taken to prevent infection and gangrene due to the impaired immune system and prolonged healing rates. Treatment methods for Raynaud’s phenomenon mainly involve prevention.

Keeping the feet warm in colder climates is very important. Also, wearing rubber gloves while washing dishes can help protect the hands from exposure to high temperatures. Similarly, wearing cotton gloves when putting items into or removing items from the refrigerator or freezer can protect fingers from

11.

of health care. Forgetting all of the politics around the issue, this truth is one that none of us should accept.

The law isn’t perfect - that website really needs some work, some people will not see plans as affordable, and others will prefer the old way of doing things. Those are all valid stances, but that shouldn’t keep us from realizing the positive impact it’s having on the people around us.

We will likely be having the same conversation about the same issues for many years to come. But it is up to us to face these issues together. Don’t like the law? Well, let’s find a way to fix it! The beauty of this country and its Democracy is in its ability to encourage constructive discourse. Our views may be wildly different, but the conversation should lead to progress.

It’s when this discourse turns into distain that the point of it all gets lost on us.

And that’s the true tragedy, because this isn’t about you or I. It’s about “we” and the greater good.

Dallas S. Jones is President/CEO of Elite Change, Inc. a public affairs and political consulting firm with offices in Houston, Dallas, Baton Rouge, and Washington, DC. Dallas is also a commentator and noted speaker. He resides in the Third Ward community with his wife Angela Lopez Jones and baby daughter Zoë Victoria Jones.

Lupus: A Pain in the Foot panying symptoms of lupus.

Patients most often present to their foot and ankle specialist complaining of pain and swelling in the feet and/or ankles. This is due to the presence of arthritis, which is a common finding associated with lupus. The joint destruction can make regular daily activities, such as walking to the mailbox, unbearable and nearly impossible. Treatment of arthritic conditions affecting the lower extremities is aimed at controlling swelling and inflammation, thereby minimizing pain.

It is also important to wear supportive shoe gear or custom insoles to protect the joints from increased stress.

Another common complication of lupus that manifests in the lower extremity is known as Reynaud’s phenomenon.

This condition is characterized by a decrease in blood flow to the digits (fingers and/or toes) in response to rapid changes in temperature – most often to cold exposure. As a result of the temperature change, the blood vessels constrict, causing the skin to turn pale or white. Next, the skin turns blue due to a lack of oxygen to the tissues. Finally, the blood vessels reopen causing the skin to turn red from the influx of blood to the area. The severity of the condition is determined by the frequency and duration of the reaction.

Prolonged blood vessel constriction can

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extreme cold exposure. In some cases, medications can be used to help dilate or keep the blood vessels open.

Lupus is difficult to diagnose because there is no definitive blood test that can be ordered. There is also a broad range of symptoms that can mimic other medical conditions. For this reason, it is important not to ignore prolonged or unexplained pain or skin-related symptoms.

There is no current cure for lupus; however, drug therapy and prevention plans can be effective at minimizing and managing symptoms during flare-ups. For more information on lupus or to find out how to help with lupus awareness and research, visit www.lupus.org.

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How’s your Health Mentally?

May is National Mental Health Month and we need to recognize as a culture the importance of defining mental health and the signs of a good and bad mental state of health. Here are some staggering statistics about the condition of our mental health according to the government.

By Rhonda Dallas

W

Contributing Writer

hen I was growing up in Chicago, there was always a friend who had a relative that never came out of the room and we were always afraid to go back there. We were told they were old and senile (forgetful) and not to bother them or “they were born like that.” But now, as I have studied mental health in the black community, I realize we should have sought out help for them.

MENTAL HEALTH AND AFRICAN AMERICANS (MINORITYHEALTH.HHS.GOV) • Poverty level affects mental health status. African Americans living below the poverty level, as compared to those over twice the poverty level, are three times more likely to report psychological distress.

• African Americans are 20% more likely to report having serious psychological distress than Non-Hispanic Whites.

• Non-Hispanic Whites are more than twice as likely to receive antidepressant prescription treatments as are Non-Hispanic Blacks.

10 to 14 increased 233%, as compared to 120% of Non-Hispanic Whites.

• The death rate from suicide for African American men was almost four times that for African American women in 2009.

• The suicide rate for African Americans is 60% lower than that of the NonHispanic White population.

• A report from the U.S. Surgeon General found that from 1980-1995, the suicide rate among African Americans ages

STEPS TO MAINTAINING A POSITIVE MENTAL HEALTH STATE: • Pray and meditate day and night. Relieve your mind from the cares and worries of this world.

• Eat a balanced meal three times a day.

Ensure fruits and vegetables are in your diet.

• Exercise daily by walking, jumping rope, or any other cardio routines.

• Get plenty of vitamin D or sunlight.

Lack of vitamin D has been linked to depression.

• See your doctor annually to check your physical and mental health.

• Seek medical help from a psychiatrist or psychologist, if necessary. HIPPA Laws will maintain your confidentiality. Don’t worry; no one will know unless you tell them. www.rhondajdallas.com

The Key to Managing Stress:

Identify Causes and find Simple Solutions d-mars.com News Provider If there is one aspect of life in the modern world that affects all of us, it's stress. Yet, despite the potential negative effects of stress, it can also be beneficial.

Stress can lead to a wide variety of health conditions including impaired immune function, headaches, sleep problems, cardiovascular diseases, uncharacteristic anger, anxiety and even depression, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Stress can also have a negative financial effect. It has been estimated that stress-related medical expenses, lost wages and lost productivity among employers costs the U.S. economy upward of $300 billion per year.

The key to managing stress is in our ability to identify its causes, according to Anna Zendell, PhD, MSW, and Carol Shenise, MS, RN of Excelsior College's School of Health Sciences. Events or conditions that cause stress trigger our mind and body into action in an effort to cope with the situation. When this happens, the body releases adrenaline and cortisol which can provide quick energy and sharpened focus. This can be beneficial when experiencing short-term situations such as running late for an appointment, preparing for a test at school, having to take a traffic detour, or making a presentation to our boss. It's when a stressful situation overcomes our ability to cope with it, or be-

comes the norm and continues for long periods of time, that its negative effects can become a real health problem.

Managing stress, whether short- or long-term, can depend upon the source of the factors or stressors that caused it in the first place. There could be environmental factors such as the change in seasons and natural or man-made toxins. Social factors such as living or

working in crowded conditions and financial downturns are common triggers. Even our personal values and beliefs can come in conflict with everyday events which can cause or aggravate an existing situation. Understanding what causes or increases our stress levels is the first step toward finding a means to lessen its negative effects.

The impacts of stress on daily life are

often unique to each individual as these tend to manifest in our weaker areas.

Our bodies and minds can become fatigued and we feel tired or worn out.

Our immune systems can become slow to respond so that we become ill more often or recovery from an existing illness becomes much more difficult to achieve. One or more important areas of our social lives may be affected such as work and personal relationships and parenting. We just don't find pleasure and take less time to do the things that will help to relieve stress and promote relaxation.

While we cannot always change or eliminate the things that trigger stress in our lives, we can make a conscious effort to change our behaviors in response to these factors. We can say ‘no’ to new responsibilities or put limits to what we take on. We can take care of our bodies by healthful eating, drinking plenty of water and exercising. We can use various stress reduction strategies such as setting aside some quiet time for ourselves, adding humor to our day, visiting with friends or getting a massage.

Stress-causing situations may be common place in our fast-paced society but this doesn't mean that we have to accept their consequences as a fact of life. This, Zendell and Shenise say, is where exercising our personal power to take control and either change the conditions or our response to situations can make all the difference. - (BPT)

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Computer Screens, Smartphones and TVs: Blue Light from Electronic Devices Raising Concerns for Eye Health

d-mars.com News Provider Your morning probably starts off in a routine. You might watch the weather report on your flat screen TV before jumping into the shower, answer an email on your tablet shortly after getting dressed, or text a friend while eating breakfast.

We use our eyes much differently than any generation before us, and dramatic shifts in digital tool usage and media consumption are exposing eyes to blue light from electronic devices, which could adversely affect your vision in the future.

Studies show denizens of the digital world are significantly increasing time spent in front of their computers, smartphones, and other blue light-emitting devices. The average American spends about two hours and 19 minutes online plus another two hours and 20 minutes conducting non-voice activities on tablets as well as mobile phones every day, according to a survey by eMarketer.

Additionally, recent Nielsen ratings reveal that the average American spends about 34 hours per week watching live television, and another three to six hours watching recorded programs.

What does this mean for our eyes? Blue light, which radiates from digital sources like computers, smartphones, and televisions, can have an adverse effect on visual cells. In fact, researchers are learning blue light, found in sunlight and some indoor

lighting, plays a role in the incidence and severity of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Fortunately, Mother Nature arms us with macular pigments, zeaxanthin (zeeuh-zan-thin) and lutein that act like “internal sunglasses.� These pigments protect and enhance vision, and are found in the center of the macula in the back of your eye. Internal sunglasses protect the cones and rods that are responsible for central and peripheral vision, respectively, and can enhance vision as well.

The density of macular pigment is largely determined by diet, but can change as we age. As macular pigment becomes thinner or less dense, harmful blue light can reach and damage the photoreceptors (rods and cones). The

resulting damage can lead to visual performance challenges and contribute to other eye issues like fatigue, strain, sleeplessness, and even more serious conditions like AMD. Thick or dense macular pigment can improve visual acuity for activities like reading in dim light or needlepoint, reduce sensitivity to bright light like sunlight or stadium lights, improve recovery time from glare from things like oncoming headlights, and enhance contrast sensitivity such as seeing an object clearly against its background.

Increasing macular pigment density can be achieved by replenishing the macular pigments zeaxanthin and lutein. According to the American Optometric Association (AOA) of the 600 carotenoids

found in nature, zeaxanthin and lutein are the only two that are deposited naturally in the macula.

Since the human body does not produce the zeaxanthin and lutein it needs, good nutrition is essential. Lutein is plentiful in leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli. Zeaxanthin, on the other hand, is found in foods like corn, eggs, and peppers, but only in trace amounts. For most Americans, a significant zeaxanthin dietary gap exists, resulting in less protection and potentially decreased visual performance.

The quantity of these pigments in the macular region of the retina can be measured with a macular pigment optical density (MPOD) exam. MPOD exams are quick, non-invasive, and available through leading optometrists.

For those who cannot consume enough zeaxanthin and lutein through the diet, eye vitamins like EyePromise offer macular health formulas designed to increase MPOD and build internal sunglasses that provide vision protection and enhancement.

As computer, tablet, and smartphone usage increases, society’s collective exposure to blue light will also continue to surge. Optimal health of our internal sunglasses is imperative in safeguarding our eyes from harmful blue light today and into the future. - (BPT)

May-June 15, 2014

e, g n a h c e r a c h t l at hea k o o l u o y y a w Any er. d a e l a o t n r u t n you ca

Call 1.888.731.0321 “Highest Member Satisfaction among Commercial Health Plans in Texas, Three Years in a Row�

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas received the highest numerical score among commercial health plans in Texas in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011-2013 U.S. Member Health Plan Studies SM . 2013 study based on 33,533 total member responses, measuring five plans in Texas (excludes Medicare and Medicaid). Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of members surveyed December 2012-January 2013. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

A Division of Health Care Service Corporation, a Mutual Legal Reserve Company, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association

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Dental Fact:

By Dr. Ka-Ron Y. Wade

A

a hole through the enamel and into the underlying layer of dentin of your teeth if left undiluted and in contact with your tooth. We want to stop the decay before it gets to this point.

Once decay reaches the nerve center of your tooth, or the pulp, you’re looking at big time pain and the need for a root canal filling to prevent extraction. We’ll help you take simple measures to effectively reduce plaque build-up and avoid this uncomfortable and expensive outcome!

Tooth Decay and Gum Disease are Preventable!

Contributing Writer

s many as 23 percent of adults suffer from untreated tooth decay, which results in the damage of tooth structure. Neglected tooth decay can also lead to severe pain, root canal infection, abscess and tooth loss.

Three-fourths of the adult population has gum disease. Almost onefourth of adults 65 years and older have lost all of their teeth. Periodontitis (gum disease) is the leading cause of adult tooth loss and the resulting gum infection can also compromise your health.

Yet, tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss are largely preventable!

TAKE HOME TIPS The cause of both tooth decay and gum disease is plaque build-up. So here’s how to keep plaque in check: Brush and floss daily, use an oral irrigator and have

regular dental exams and cleanings.

It’s a good idea to cut back on betweenmeal snacks, especially those that stick to your teeth like dried fruit and crackers, and avoid consuming too many acidic and sugary drinks and foods.

New research shows that the natural sweetener xylitol inhibits the growth of specific decay-causing bacteria and is available in gum, mints and toothpastes.

A recent insurance-based study examined approximately 750,000 dental claims over a 15-year period.

The study found that nearly 44 percent of patients treated in a given year needed nothing more than preventive and diagnostic treatments! Prevention can save you time and money!!!

TAKE HOME TIPS Regular six-month check-ups and cleanings can dramatically reduce—or eliminate—the need for extensive dental treatments and periodontal surgery.

You may have no symptoms at the beginnings stages of tooth decay or gum disease, so don’t wait until you have pain or discomfort to schedule your next dental appointment.

Each day your teeth become covered with plaque – a sticky film of bacteria, saliva and food particles. Decay-causing bacteria thrive on the sugary foods and drinks that you consume. When this happens, strong acid by-products are released and “attack” your teeth.

The acid is powerful enough to bore

TAKE HOME TIPS The extent of damage caused by food left on your teeth depends on how long it’s left there. For this reason, you never want to skip brushing and flossing. If that’s not possible, at least rinse and drink lots of water. Keep a toothbrush and floss handy when you’re away from home.

The only way to break up colonies of bacteria that constantly form is to make sure you floss at least once a day. The “etching” done to your enamel by the acid can begin within 20 minutes of consuming and offending food.

Plaque build-up can quickly harden into calculus that can only be removed by in-office cleaning!

For breakthrough dental technology, TO LEARN MORE, CALL US TODAY! For More Information, call us at 713.654.7756 or visit our web-site at www.cosmeticdt.com

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Welcome

N ew

c haN c e llo r

Dr. Cesar MalDonaDo

We’re proud to introduce Cesar Maldonado, Ph.D., P.E., PMP, as the new Chancellor of Houston Community College. Dr. Maldonado brings 30 years of business experience, a strong academic pedigree, and the leadership skills to take us where our community needs us to be, both today and into the future.

Welcome to a new day at HCC.

HCCs.edu

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