Houston Defender: July 16, 2015

NATIONAL

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NEWSTALK DR. PAULETTE WALKER presides over Deltas

Jada Pinkett Smith

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FIGHTS MODERN-DAY SLAVERY

FEATURE KOFI TAHARKA hosts NBUF convention

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STEVE JACKSON gives back with foundation

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Eye care: Focus on good vision

Cynthia Cisneros, Indrani Goradia and Spencer Tillman at Career & Recovery Resources luncheon

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We often take our sight for granted, but healthy eyes are an important part of our well-being. Find out which vision disorders plague African-Americans. Learn about glasses vs. contacts. See which conditions affect children and how they’re treated.

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President Obama seeks justice The criminal justice system is broken and President Obama wants to fix it.

Discover the steps he is taking for meaningful and fair reform. See how he feels about reduced sentences and solitary confinement. Read what he says about second chances.

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Deltas convene in Houston July 23-29 Seven of the area’s local chapters Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the will collaborate to host the organizasingle largest African-American women’s organization in the country, will meet in tion’s members: Houston Alumnae, Houston for its 52nd National Convention Houston Metropolitan, Suburban from July 23- 29.

Houston Fort Bend Alumnae, Bay It will be held at the George R. Area Houston Alumnae, North HarBrown Convention Center with an ris County Alumnae, Delta Gamma expected attendance of nearly 13,000 chapter (Texas Southern University) delegates, vendors and guests. and Zeta Sigma chapter (University “To say that the women of Delta of Houston).

Sigma Theta are merely ‘excited’ about Convention activities include a this year’s convention does not accurately welcome event featuring the Motown convey how thrilled we are to come to Review, Greek step show, gospel Houston,” said National President Dr. concert featuring Beverly CrawDr. Paulette Walker Paulette Walker. ford and Donald Lawrence, a Delta “There has been an immeasurable amount of Extravaganza featuring the O’Jays and the Literary anticipation throughout the organization since 2013 Café with invited guests Eric Jerome Dickey and Bill when our Site Committee recommended Houston as the Dukes. location for our 52nd convention.”

The convention has garnered sponsorship from

major corporations, including Toyota Motor North America, Macy’s and Wells Fargo.

Delta Sigma Theta was founded in 1913 on the campus of Howard University. The sorority has more than 250,000 initiated members and more than 900 chapters worldwide.

Walker has served as president for the past two years under the theme, “Uncompromising Commitment to Communities: Service, Leadership, Empowerment.”

Since its inception 102 years ago, the service organization has promoted academic excellence in education, community service and participation in political and legislative processes.

“We are an organization committed to devoted service, intelligent leadership and life-changing empowerment,” Walker said. “We hope to bring a little piece of us to the Houston area and its surrounding communities.”

For more information visit www.deltasigmatheta.org.

National TSU alumni meet in Houston July 30-Aug. 1 The Texas Southern University National Alumni Association’s 2015 National Convention will be held July 30-Aug. 1 at the Westin Memorial Hotel, 945 Gessner. The theme is “Undivided We Will Stand by the Greatest in the Land.”

The three-day event will feature workshops and activities designed to re-ignite, renew and reenergize the TSU Tiger spirit and remind alumni of their commitment to the future of the university.

“The alumni love Texas Southern University, make no mistake about it,” said Julia Askew, TSUNAA president. “This event gives us a chance to talk about increased support for the university, whether that support comes in the form of

volunteerism, tutoring, mentoring or financial assistance.

“We want our love for the university to resonate into whatever support the university needs.”

Highlights of the convention include a welcome reception, casino night, life member’s luncheon and Excellence in Achievement Awards Gala, along with breakout sessions.

Outstanding alumni who will be honored include Bennie Brooks, Barbara Clemons, John Cochran Jr., Coye Julia Askew Devrouax, Marilyn Doyle, Booker Lynn Graves, Cortez Hankton, Ron Julun, Dr.

Shawn Simmons, TSU Regent Marilyn Rose and Reginald Thompson.

“I invite all alumni to attend the convention,” said Connie Cochran, TSU’s executive director of Alumni Relations. “It is vital that all alumni become involved and play a role in the future of the university and the alumni association. It is not only our responsibility, but our duty to give back. Make your commitment now to become involved.”

For more information contact tsunaaconvention2015@gmail.com or visit www.tsunaa.com.

localbriefs CONGRESSMAN AL GREEN’S legislation benefiting veterans was passed by the House of Representatives by a vote of 412 to 1. The Homes for Heroes Act of 2015 is designed to prevent low-income veterans and their families from becoming homeless. The legislation establishes a special assistant for Veterans Affairs and requires that an annual report on veterans’ homelessness is submitted to Congress. The special assistant would also help coordinate HUD’s programs and activities relating to veterans and serve as a HUD liaison with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Green introduced the legislation in January and it has 26

co-sponsors……… HISD’S Family and Community Engagement department is recruiting part-time instructors to work with the Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program for the 2015-16 school year. HIPPY is a school readiness program for children 3 to 5 that helps parents prepare preschoolers for academic success. Instructors visit parents in their homes for an hour a week over a 30-week period during the school year, and model learning activities designed to help children develop skills in reading, math and science. Positions require a commitment of 30 hours a week and pay $10 an hour plus benefits. Apply online at bit.ly/1JjB3IN or call

713-967-5298……..TEXAS FAMILIES who want to enroll newborns in the Texas Tuition Promise Fund have until July 31. Newborns are children younger than 1 year at the time of enrollment. The Texas Tuition Promise Fund, the state’s prepaid college tuition program, allows participants to lock in the cost of undergraduate tuition and school-wide required fees at Texas public colleges and universities based on current prices. Under the plan, families can purchase tuition units to pay for all or part of tuition and schoolwide required fees at Texas public two- and four-year colleges and universities. Visit www.TuitionPromise. org or call 1-800-445-GRAD.

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Obama calls for criminal justice reform President Obama is calling for “meaningful” juvenile and criminal justice reform that makes the system, fairer, smarter and more cost-effective while keeping Americans safe. Obama made his case by: • Commuting the sentences of 46 federal prisoners convicted of nonviolent drug offenses.

• Urging Congress to support reductions in jail sentences for non-violent drug offenders during a speech to the NAACP convention in Philadelphia.

• Scheduling a trip to a federal prison outside of Oklahoma City, the first such visit by a sitting U.S. president.

In his 45-minute video message to the NAACP, Obama recommended reducing or eliminating mandatory minimum sentences and reviewing the use of solitary confinement.

He encouraged states to get rid of laws that bar convicted felons from voting and said employers should avoid asking on job applications if a person has a criminal record, both practices that disproportionately affect minorities.

“Any system that allows us to turn a blind-eye to hopelessness and despair, that’s not a justice system, that’s an injustice system,” Obama said. “Justice is not only the absence of oppression, it’s the presence of opportunity.”

He urged Congress to pass a criminal sentence reform bill by the end of the year, and said he asked the Department of Justice to begin a study on ways to improve conditions for Americans in solitary confinement.

“We keep more people behind bars than the top 35 European countries combined,” he said.

Obama also referred to the 46 prisoners whose sentences were commuted. The action brings the number of Obama’s commutations to nearly 90.

Most have been for federal prisoners who received

long sentences mandated under guidelines set in the 1980s.

After they are released, the former prisoners will be supervised by probation officers and subject to conditions that were set during their original sentencing, which is some cases includes drug testing.

“These men and women were not hard criminals,” Obama said. “Their punishment did not fit the crime. I believe at its heart America is a nation of second chances, and I believe these folks deserve their second chance.”

Black newspapers will ‘flex muscles’ TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE

When America’s first Black newspaper was published on March 16, 1827, Black people were still enslaved. Nearly two centuries later, the issues of Black America – though not as severe as human bondage – are still urgent.

Denise Rolark Barnes, the new chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), said the federation of more than 200 Black-owned newspapers will continue to not only thrive, but grow, as it begins its 75th year.

Barnes, publisher of the Washington Informer Newspaper, follows in the footsteps of her father, the late Calvin Rolark.

She said NNPA’s new leadership team will encourage a keen focus Denise Rolark Barnes on issues that continually plague Black communities, while initiating strategies to expand.

“Housing, the large foreclosure rate, the issue of the lack of police-community relations, the unwarranted deaths of young Black men at the hands of police, the big issue of Black-on Black crime – we need to take responsible positions on all of these issues because this is what our community looks for, but this is also what I think our advertisers will be looking for.

“I’d just say look out because we’re going to flex our muscles,” Barnes said. “And we’re looking forward to doing our jobs on a broader scale and speaking stronger. And I

know the publishers are prime for it.”

Garner family seeks justice despite settlement The family of Eric Garner urged that charges be brought in his chokehold death, saying the recent $5.9 million settlement with the city did not provide justice in the case.

Garner died during a confrontation with New York City police officers on Aug. 1, 2014, while allegedly selling single cigarettes outside a convenience store.

Officer Daniel Pantaleo put Garner in a chokehold, and his cries of “I can’t breathe” were ignored.

After a grand jury declined to charge Pantaleo, protests erupted across the country.

Garner’s estate, which filed a claim against the

New NNPA chair

city for damages related to his death, will be paid the $5.9 million. Garner’s wife, however, along with other family members and Rev. Al Sharpton, said they will continue to press for criminal charges.

“They treated my husband like an animal, and I think they give animals more respect than humans,” said Esaw Snipes Garner.

“This does not represent justice,” Garner’s daughter, Erica, said of the settlement. “We are calling on the Department of Justice and [Attorney General] Loretta Lynch to deliver justice for my father.”

Sharpton said, “Eric Garner and the community have not received justice. Money is not justice.”

VOLUME 84 • NUMBER 33 JULY 16, 2015

Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Advertising/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Online Editor ReShonda Billingsley Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila

Print Editor Marilyn Marshall

Multimedia Coordinator LaGloria Wheatfall Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

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Take simple steps to grow your savings FAMILY FEATURES

Putting money in a savings account seems simple enough, yet it’s a struggle for many. According to federal data by Statistics Brain, the average U.S. family’s savings account held a balance of $3,800 in 2014.

While there has been an upward trend in the amount being socked away each year, increasing savings account balances can help Americans meet their longterm goals, such as retirement.

When building your savings, take the task head on by defining a clear course of action and setting specific goals.

1. Know how you’ll use the money. There are a variety of ways you can use your newly earned savings, from growing your savings balance to making a major purchase to paying down debt. Set an attainable goal, such as paying off a credit card, funding a down payment for a new house or making an extra mortgage payment.

2. Challenge yourself to save. Try a program that lets you gradually step up your game, such as a 52-week savings challenge. Start off saving $1 the first week, $2 the second week, and eventually $52

in the final week of the challenge. If you save each week throughout the year, you will be $1,378 richer.

You may find it helpful to set a weekly reminder to stay on track.

3. Ditch the money jar. By opening a savings account, you will be far less likely to “borrow” from yourself. Having an account also makes it easier to arrange for automatic recurring transfers that move

money from your checking account to your savings account on a regular schedule.

If your paycheck is delivered via direct deposit, you can also direct a portion of each check directly to savings.

4. Use accounts that give you a boost. Most financial institutions offer a variety of saving options to fit your needs. For example, if you meet certain criteria, you may be eligible to open a high-interest savings account to grow your savings even higher. Another route is to choose a savings account that imposes penalties for excessive withdrawals.

While these accounts can feel restrictive, they provide a valuable deterrent for those who are too easily tempted to dip into their savings.

5. Treat your savings like a bill. Create a budget that outlines all your expenses, and includes a line for savings. Thinking of your savings account as a debt to be paid will help hold you accountable for making regular deposits and limit any tendencies to spend what you may have been able to save.

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entertainment

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Jada Pinkett Smith

fights human trafficking

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ctress Jada Pinkett Smith is battling modernfrom the men and women who prey on their vulnerabilities? day slavery. She has become a vocal activist To get answers for the upcoming special, Pinkett Smith against human trafficking, and in 2012, sits down with survivors who courageously share their joined forces with actress Salma Hayek to horrifying stories of exploitation and the triumph of their launch the Don’t Sell Bodies campaign. Its survival. purpose is to raise awareness about the sexual exploitation She follows Sergeant Torrey Kennedy, head of the of women and girls around the world.

Internet Crimes Against Children Division, as he conducts Pinkett Smith is taking her activism a step further by undercover raids to arrest suspected traffickers and rescue hosting a special titled “Children for Sale: The Fight to End underage girls. In addition, she comes face-to-face with a Human Trafficking.” It airs Tuesday, July 21 at 8 p.m. on convicted female trafficker.

CNN, CNN International and via CNNgoReport.

Lisa Williams, founder of a safe house and rehabilitaShe travels to Atlanta – a trafficking hotspot – to try tion facility for trafficked teens, is featured as she counsels and unravel the complicated web of human trafficking that’s an exploited teen highlighted in the special. Viewers will occurring in the United States. also hear from aid workers and prosecutors who are workThe hour-long special report is a gritty, raw look at the ing to eradicate the crime. human trafficking industry in the U.S., the lives of children Pinkett Smith said her fight is a personal one. “As a caught in its web, and those fighting back against it. mother – as a human being – this is something that is simPinkett Smith and the network delve deep into the ply unacceptable,” she said. heart of this heinous crime, following undercover officers “I want to show you traffickers, girls affected and the on raids and rescues of underage victims, accompanying aid people fighting back against modern-day slavery.” workers on outreach missions, and spending time with the survivors in shelters as they share their harrowing stories.

“For me, this project is extremely important because I want the world to understand the dangers • Born 1971 in Baltimore that every kid in America is susceptible to,” Pinkett • Attended Baltimore School of the Arts with rapper Tupac Smith said. “Human trafficking is one aspect of the • Spent a year at North Carolina School of the Arts vulnerabilities and obstacles that we are confronted • Joined the cast of “A Different World” in 1991 with. People who sell children are monsters.”

• Early film roles include “Menace II Society,” The Inkwell” and “JaSex trafficking hit Pinkett Smith head on when son’s Lyric” her then pre-teen daughter, Willow, asked her about • Married Will Smith in 1997; children, Jaden and Willow the crime in the U.S. after watching a video.

• Appeared in “The Matrix Reloaded” and “The Matrix Revolutions” Pinkett Smith began to research the subject. She • Debuted as director and writer in “The Human Contract” sought answers to such questions as, where does sex • Portrayed nurse on TNT’s “Hawthorne” ked her illow spar W trafficking start? How do girls get manipulated into it?

• Starred in Fox’s crime drama “Gotham” r te h g ith’s dau Pinkett Sm uman trafficking.

How hard is it for law enforcement and others to save • Currently seen in film “Magic Mike XXL” h interest in them? And how can communities help protect children

About Jada Pinkett Smith

what’sup The summer prime-time game show “Celebrity Family Feud,” hosted by STEVE HARVEY, is the top-rated network show on Sunday nights.

It airs at 7 p.m. on ABC, and has included the families of ANTHONY ANDERSON, TONI BRAXTON and NIECY NASH……..BOBBY BROWN received some good news while dealing with the tragedy of his daughter, BOBBI KRISTINA BROWN, who remains in hospice care in Atlanta. Brown’s wife, Alicia, gave birth to their second child, a girl, on July 11.

They have a 5-year-old son, Cassius. The drama surrounding Bobbi Kristina continued as her boyfriend, NICK GORDON, was served with a

$10 million lawsuit at a Florida Starbucks. Bobbi Kristina’s conservator filed the suit, claiming that Gordon inflicted emotional distress, battery and assault on the 22-year-old daughter of WHITNEY HOUSTON. Gordon is also accused of taking more than $11,000 from her bank account without permission…….. 50 CENT said he’s not panicking after filing for bankruptcy, and added that many online fans seemed more concerned about his finances than he is. “People love tragedy more than they love good news, no matter how you look at it,” he said. The rapper and actor, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, filed bankruptcy before he was scheduled to hand

over documentation of his assets in a sex tape trial. A jury ordered Jackson to pay $5 million to Lastonia Leviston, who said he obtained a video she made with her boyfriend, added himself as a commentator and posted it online without her permission. Leviston has a baby by Jackson’s rival, rapper RICK ROSS……….“MOTOWN THE MUSICAL” comes to Houston’s Hobby Center July 21-26. It is the true story of BERRY GORDY’S journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of DIANA ROSS, MICHAEL JACKSON, SMOKEY ROBINSON and more.

For ticket info visit www.thehobbycenter.org.

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Defender Special Edition

EYE CARE:

Focus on good vision

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By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

ealthy eyes are an important part of your well-being, and there are numerous things you can do to see your best.

From getting regular eye exams to eating right to knowing your family eye health history, you can help maintain good vision for years to come.

African-Americans should be especially diligent about eye care, since they are at higher risk for vision loss from certain eye diseases. Dr. Nancy Webb, an ophthalmologist and chief of Ophthalmology at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, said there are three eye disorders in particular that impact Blacks.

GLAUCOMA

“There is a higher prevalence of glaucoma in African-Americans, especially after the age of 40,” Webb said. “A family history of glaucoma also increases your risk. In general, there are no symptoms with the most common form of glaucoma, which we call open angle glaucoma.

“We call it ‘the thief in the night’ because one can be slowly and progressively losing peripheral vision and have no awareness of this visual loss,” Webb said. “There is no pain associated with it either.”

Webb said screening of asymptomatic individuals is the key to diagnoses and prevention of vision loss.

“We measure intraocular pressure, which is usually high at the time of diagnosis, but not always,” Webb said. “We also assess optic nerve appearance, visual field testing and corneal thickness to make a diagnosis of glaucoma.

“Once we have diagnosed glaucoma, the

first line of treatment is eye drops to lower intraocular pressure.

We sometimes use combinations of drops. When drops are not effective or not tolerated, we can do a laser procedure to control the pressure. We also have surgical alternatives when drops or laser do not achieve the desired pressure,” Webb said.

DIABETIC RETINOPATHY

Diabetes is one of the most serious health problems facing African-Americans, and diabetic retinopathy is a complication of uncontrolled diabetes.

“The best way to treat diabetic retinopathy is to try to prevent it through tight blood sugar control and rigorous adherence to a diabetic diet,” Webb said. “Weight loss and exercise are also

10 VISION FACTS

important in controlling diabetes.”

She said once diabetic retinopathy has been diagnosed, the treatment depends on the severity of the retinopathy.

“Diabetes can affect the walls of the blood vessels in the retina. The walls can become weak and develop microaneurysms which can bleed and leak fluid. This is called background diabetic retinopathy and can respond well to laser,” she said.

“If left untreated, this can lead to proliferative diabetic retinopathy, with fragile new vessels forming which can bleed, leading to scarring of the retina, bleeding into the vitreous, and in some cases, traction on the retina and retinal detachment.

“Sometimes injections into the (transparent jellylike tissue filling the eyeball behind the lens) of medications which can prevent the development of these new vessels is helpful.”

1. An estimated 828,000 African-Americans have diabetic retinopathy.

2. More than 520,000 African-Americans have glaucoma.

3. Approximately 14 million individuals 12 and older have visual impairment, among which more than 80 percent could be corrected.

4. Approximsately 6.8 percent of U.S. children under 18 have a diagnosed vision condition.

5. An estimated 61 million U.S. adults are at high risk for serious vision loss, but only half visited an eye doctor in the past 12 months.

6. More than 1.2 million people 40 and older are legally blind.

7. The annual economic impact of major vision problems among adults 40 and older is more than $51 billion.

8. Vision disability is one of the top 10 disabilities among adults

18 and older and one of the most prevalent disabling conditions among children.

9. Vision loss causes a substantial social and economic toll for millions of people, including disability, loss of productivity and diminished quality of life.

10. Nearly 25.7 million Americans 40 and older have cataracts.

Sources: National Institute of Health, CDC, Prevent Blindness

CATARACT

Webb said cataracts are prevalent in AfricanAmericans, and diabetics also have a higher incidence of cataract, especially with poorly controlled diabetes.

“Cataract is a clouding of the natural lens of the eye,” she said. “It may or may not be severe enough to be visually significant. If a patient does have a visually significant cataract, surgery with cataract extraction and replacement of the cloudy lens with an artificial lens is highly successful and done as a day surgery procedure.”

Web said symptoms include blurred vision, problems in glare situations such as driving at night and problems from oncoming headlights, problems with glare from the sun and fuzzy vision when reading.

According to the National Eye Institute, by age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. The symptoms of early cataract may be improved with new eyeglasses, brighter lighting, anti-glare sunglasses, or magnifying lenses. If these measures do not help, surgery is the only effective treatment.

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Things to know about

eye cancer

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By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

ancer of the eye is rare, but it is still a serious disease that can impact a patient’s vision and more.

Here are things to know about eye cancer from Dr. Dan Gombos, M.D., a professor in the Department of Head and Neck Surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center, and clinical co-director of the Retinoblastoma Center of Houston.

• The most common eye cancer is actually metastatic, spreading from the place where it first started to another place in the body. Breast, lung and gastrointestinal cancer are the most common cancers that spread to the eye, usually in more advanced stages.

“If a woman has breast cancer and it’s early stage one, it’s very unlikely to involve the eyes or the brain,” Gombos said. “If you wait until it’s more advanced then you’re putting yourself in a situation where either the eye itself is directly involved or the brain and the visual areas of the brain might become involved.”

• The most common cancer that develops in the eye is uveal or ocular melanoma.

“Fortunately for AfricanAmericans, rates of those cancers are much lower,”

Gombos said. Whites are most at risk for ocular melanoma, and Gombos said when it is found in African-American patients, they are usually of mixed heritage.

“African-Americans also have lower rates of nevi,” which are birthmarks in the back of the eye,” he said.

• Retinoblastoma is a rare cancer that involves children, most often infants ages 1 to 2.

“The key finding is a white reflex,” Gombos said.

“Normally when you take a picture of the eye you get that red look. People try to edit it out, but that represents a healthy retina. If you get a white reflex that is always abnormal.

“There are other things that can cause a white reflex, such as a cataract or anomaly in the back of the eye.

Whenever you see it, however, bring it to the attention of a pediatrician and hopefully a pediatric ophthalmologist. In rare instances it can be potentially fatal,” Gombos said.

“If a parent has a history of retinoblastoma, they must let us know, because there’s a risk in some families that the gene that causes it might be passed along to the child. Fortunately, this is a malignancy we are able to cure in most instances, but if we don’t get to it early enough a child can lose vision,” he said.

Inside Eye disorders in children 3B Texas Children’s Hospital

Hurricane preparedness 4B Best practices for correcting vision 6B Eye care do’s and don’ts 6B MD Anderson Cancer Center

Take action to reduce cancer risk 8B Memorial Hermann

Addressing mental health needs 10B Kelsey-Seybold Clinic

Type 2 diabetes skyrockets among youth 12B

Message from the Publisher

Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

It’s often said that the eyes are “the window to the soul,” but they’re much more than that. For those of us who have our sight, it shapes our entire world.

The Defender is proud to bring you another special health edition, this time focusing on eye care. We cover everything from disorders affecting children to glasses vs. contacts.

You will also find important information from our partners – Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Memorial Hermann Health System and Texas Children’s Hospital.

According to the federal government’s National Eye Institute, there are more steps you can take to keep your eyes healthy.

1. Get regular eye exams. By visiting your eye care professional for a comprehensive dilated eye exam, you can see if you need glasses or a new prescription, or discover if you have an eye disease.

2. Know your family’s eye health history. It’s important to know if a family member has been diagnosed with a disease or condition, since many are hereditary.

3. Maintain a healthy weight. As African-Americans, so many of our health problems are caused by obesity. Being overweight increases your risk of developing diabetes and other systemic conditions, which can lead to vision problems.

We often take our sight for granted. Take some time to focus on your eyes.

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JULY 16 | 2015 | DEFENDER

health

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Eye disorders in children

Early and accurate detection of eye disorders in children can be challenging.

Screening is usually done by the pediatrician and family physicians. However, it can be difficult for primary care physicians since many young children may not be willing to participate in the screening process and some diagnoses are complex.

Some eye disorders in children must be diagnosed in an early age to prevent permanent vision loss. The involvement of pediatric ophthalmologists is important since they have specialized training, expertise and examination equipment.

Here are three of the most common childhood eye disorders from Dr. Honey Herce, pediatric ophthalmologist at Texas Children’s Hospital.

AMBLYOPIA (LAZY EYE)

that can begin during preschool years. This can be difficult to diagnose since the deviation may not be evident unless the child is looking at something far away. Other symptoms can be that the child closes one eye on bright days may also be describing an intermittent exotropia. Treatment can include observation (if rarely occurring), glasses, alternate patching or surgery.

Hypertropia or hypotropia can be due to a palsy or weakness of one of the nerves controlling the eye muscle. This can be difficult to diagnose and may be found with a tilting of the head to the side of the palsy.

Any acquired deviations (sudden eye extreme eye crossing of one eye, etc.) should raise suspicion for a specific cranial nerve palsy (nerves affecting the eye muscles) that can be an early sign of an underlying neurologic disorder. can be in the form of glasses or contact lenses. If there is no strabismus (eye misalignment) and the vision is still poor with the appropriate glasses, occlusion therapy or patching of the normal eye may be needed. In children with strabismus, surgery may be needed. In children with deprivation amblyopia due to cataracts, surgery is needed.

It is a reduced vision in the eye that is not directly attributable to any structural abnormality of the eye or visual pathway. It has a prevalence of about 2 percent in the population, making it the most common cause of uncorrectable loss of vision in children.

If diagnosed early (usually by preschool age), it can be treated well and many patients can regain STRABISMUS (CROSS EYES) their vision. However, if not found until later, (age 9 This is a misalignment of the eyes that can be to 10), amblyopia becomes constant or intermittent, more difficult to treat and or can be a small or large can result in permanent videviation. It is estimated sion loss.

Learn about red eye & leukocoria that 4 percent of the U.S. There are three major on Friday, July 17 population has strabiscauses of amblyopia, each mus. with its own special diagnoDifferent types of sis and problem. strabismus can be due to a glasses problem or an It can be due to strabismus (misalignment of the eye muscle problem. Eye crossing usually begins at eyes), the most common type of amblyopia; refraca young age (2 to 7) but can be seen as young as 6 tive error (need for glasses), the most difficult type months of age. to detect; or a disruption of light passing through the Because of their high refractive state, these chileye (deprivation amblyopia), the most severe type in dren are forced to focus excessively and it induces an terms of loss of vision. eye crossing. Treatment with eyeglasses and someTreatment of amblyopia depends on the cause. It times bifocals is needed to align the eyes. begins with the appropriate optical correction, which Exotropia is typically an intermittent deviation

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EPIPHORA (EXCESSIVE TEARS)

Excessive tearing is a common pediatric problem.

Childhood epiphora that is noted soon after birth can be due to a blockage of the tear drainage system. Tear duct obstruction is the most common cause of childhood epiphora, occurring in over 5 percent of infants in one or both eyes.

Tear duct obstructions prevent the tears from draining through the system normally. This type of tearing often improves spontaneously by 6 to 12 months of age in 90 percent of patients. The signs and symptoms of a nasolacrimal duct obstruction include tears welling up on the surface of the eye and overflowing on the eyelashes, eyelids and down the cheek.

The eyelids can become red and swollen and can sometimes be stuck together with yellowish green discharge. Medical treatment includes tear sac massages and antibiotic eye drops for any signs of infection. However, if the tearing persist after 1 year of age, surgical probing of the drainage system may be required.

Other conditions that can cause epiphora should also be evaluated for, including glaucoma, uveitis (inflammation in the eye) or a foreign body in the eye.

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health

Hurricane preparedness 101

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ith the start of another hurricane season it is important families, especially in the GulfCoast region, are prepared for any potential storms that may impact our area this year. There are a number of precautions you can take now to ensure you and your family have the necessary plans and equipment in case of an emergency.

“During and after a hurricane, you may need supplies to keep your family safe and healthy,” says Shelly Lopez Gray, a clinical nurse coordinator at Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women.

“Remember that a hurricane could cut off your power and water supply. You also may not be able to drive because of damage to your car.

Roads may be flooded or blocked.”

If a hurricane is likely in your area, consider doing the following: • Listen to the radio or TV for information.

• Secure your home, close storm shutters and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.

• Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.

• Turn off propane tanks.

• Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.

• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purpose such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other larger containers with water.

• Find out how to keep food safe during and after an emergency. For information on infant nutrition during

defendernetwork.com

healthnotes Hurricane season

Tips for expectant moms and families As hurricane season is underway, it’s important to remind yourself what to do in case an emergency occurs. It’s even more important to consider your options if you’re expecting or have small children in your family.

Below are some tips from Shelly Lopez Gray, a clinical nurse coordinator at Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women.

For families

a disaster, visit https://adventuresofalabornurse.files. wordpress.com/2014/07/infant-nutrition-during-a-disaster.pdf.

You should evacuate under the following conditions: • If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions.

• If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure since these are particularly hazardous during hurricanes, no matter how well they are fastened to the ground.

• If you live in a high-rise building since hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.

• If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river or on an island waterway.

After hurricane After a disaster, let your family and friends know you are safe! You can do so by registering yourself as “Safe and Well” with the American Red Cross. Concerned family and friends can search the list of those who have registered themselves as “safe and well.” The disaster distress helpline provides 24/7, year-round crisis counseling and support by calling 1-800-985-5990.

Start by creating a family communication plan and make sure everyone in your immediate family knows what your plan is. Having a communication plan is essential as it helps each member in your family know how to get in touch with one another during an emergency.

Here’s how you can create yours: • Family communication plan –Visit the FEMA website – ready.gov – to get a copy of this. Fill it in and keep a copy in a safe place.

• Let’s get ready! – A “Sesame Street” workshop provides tips, activities and other easy tools to help the whole family prepare for emergencies. Visit sesamestreet.org.

• Be a hero – Visit ready.gov/kids. Here, your children can help make a plan, build a kit and get involved with planning.

If you’re expecting Pregnant women should take additional precautions during hurricane season as they are more vulnerable during a disaster. In the event you evacuate, you should seek prenatal care, even if it’s not with your regular doctor.

It is very important to realize you may deliver at an alternate hospital or birthing facility.

Think about where you would deliver in the event of road closures or if you are instructed to evacuate, especially if you’re close to your delivery date. Here are some suggestions to stay prepared: • Have a copy of your most up-to-date prenatal records.

• Keep a copy of your immunizations, and the immunization records of your children, with you.

• Have the names and numbers of physicians or hospitals at your planned evacuation location.

Dangers of leaving kids in hot cars It is mid-summer and temperatures are continuing to climb in Houston. It’s become so hot outside you could fry an egg on the sidewalk! During the summer kids are out of school, families take vacations and routines change. As a result, children are being seriously injured or dying from being left in a hot car.

A child’s body heats up three to five times faster than an adult’s and can’t regulate heat in the same way causing damage that is more severe over a shorter period of time. Remember, if you see a child alone in a vehicle, take action and call 911.

“Unfortunately, this happens almost every day across the United States and Texas typically experiences a vast

majority,” said Kristen Beckworth, manager of the Center for Childhood Injury Prevention at Texas Children’s Hospital.

“So far this year, eight children in the U.S. have died due to heat stroke from being left in a hot car.”

This tragedy can be prevented, though.

There are simple tactics families can practice to ensure children are kept safe in the hot summer sun.

For example, leave your cell phone or purse in the back seat with your child to remember to take out all of your belongings when exiting the car. You also can set an alarm or a reminder on your cell phone to go off when you know you’re going to reach your destination.

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Texas Children’s Health Plan covers children from newborns to teenagers. We even cover adults and pregnant moms through STAR Medicaid. Families with children who qualify for CHIP pay $50 or less a year. Those who qualify for Medicaid pay nothing. CHIP and STAR Medicaid offer a wide range of benefits including checkups and shots, dental services, medications, and more.

With Texas Children’s Health Plan you also get: ■

Over 2,100 doctors.

■

A 24-hour nurse hotline.

■

Transportation to doctor visits at no cost.

■

Pregnancy support program and classes.

■

Help losing weight through the Keep Fit Program.

■

Learn how to play soccer from the Houston Dynamo coaches.

■

Fun, free member events!

For more information, to receive an application, or to find an event in your

MK-1208-007

area, visit us online or call today.

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DEFENDER | JULY 16 | 2015

BEST PRACTICES FOR

CORRECTING EYESIGHT

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

W

ith the litany of health issues befalling African-Americans, eye care often gets neglected.

But statistics suggest taking steps to care for and correct eyesight should become a priority.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, at least 2.6 million African-Americans 18 years and over suffer from vision loss (blindness or trouble seeing even when wearing glasses or contacts).

The most common steps taken to correct eyesight – glasses and contact lenses – usually come down to personal preference, according to ophthalmologists. Lasik, and other refractive surgeries – procedures used to improve the refractive state of the eye and decrease or eliminate dependency on glasses or contact lenses – are growing in popularity.

“Before deciding between contacts and glasses, keep in mind that one is not necessarily better than the other; each has its pros and cons,” said Dr. Nancy Webb, M.D., chief of Ophthalmology at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic.

According to Webb, glasses offer many benefits over contact lenses, including requiring less cleaning and maintenance, and no eye touching (decreasing the risk of eye infections), and being cheaper in the long run since they don’t need to be replaced as often.

Webb said because contacts sit directly on the eye, vision, particularly peripheral vision, is unobstructed allowing for freer participation in sports and outdoor activities without fear of eyeglasses falling off or breaking.

Dr. Garvin Davis, M.D., an ophthalmologist with the Robert Cizik Eye Clinic (an affiliate of Memorial Hermann), specializes in retina surgery and personally prefers glasses out of all corrective options.

“Glasses protect the eyes from accidents we see all the time,” Davis said. “We have one of the busiest trauma centers in the nation and see many strange accidents including weed whackers

cente

hitting the eyes.”

Davis also discussed eyeglasses’ No. 1 competitor.

“Contacts are my least favorite. They put your eyes at risk because people often abuse them. It’s clear there is a social misunderstanding of how they work,” said Davis, who noted that contacts offer sharper and better vision, without shrinking the image as glasses do.

PROS & CONS

Webb and Davis gave pros and sons of refractive surgery.

“I’m not personally a fan of Lasik,” Webb said, “as it takes a normal cornea and reshapes it to an abnormal shape which makes it difficult to determine the proper strength for an intros ocular lens when these individuals later need cataract surgery, as well as often causing dry eye.

Davis offered another view. “There are benefits to refractive surgeries. You don’t need glasses anymore. There are no contacts popping out which can be dangerous in certain professions,” said Davis who acknowledged there are always small risks whenever there is surgery.

If going the surgical route, Webb doesn’t recommend bargain shopping, but rather going to a center respected for its work.

“If you want to have Lasik go to a respected center like Baylor College of Medicine to get an honest opinion on whether you are a good candidate for a successful outcome. Don’t go to the place advertising a low price in the newspaper.”

Webb and Davis also shed light on vision myths.

“Though some say otherwise, over the counter reading glasses are just fine,” Webb said.

“And reading in dim light, contrary to what your mom told you, does no harm.”

Davis mentioned the danger of believing eyes heal themselves over time.

“Delays in evaluating your eyes lead to more issues and problems,” he said.

Both Webb and Davis emphasize the need to have annual eye exams after age 40, particularly for issues that impact Blacks more than others.

“In the Black community, glaucoma is the leading causes of blindness,” Davis said. “It’s

silent, going largely under-recognized and under-detected. Blacks have a much higher rate of developing glaucoma than others, and are less likely to have the health care to detect it.”

Risk factors for glaucoma include a family history of glaucoma, being Black, and having diabetes, the leading cause of preventable blindness.

“Diabetes is the third leading cause of blindness in the western world because patients don’t follow up, don’t see their ophthalmologist, and don’t take care of their diabetes,” Davis said.

“What’s exciting to me is, if you have glaucoma or diabetes and recognize it early, we can keep you seeing for the rest of your life. It’s all about control and follow-up.”

Ophthalmolo in the medical and system and preven ophthalmologist h college premed ed one year of interns ophthalmologist c sion services, eye

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erfold

Eye care do’s & don’ts Do

• Eat eye-friendly foods: fruits and vegetables, especially dark, leafy greens and carrots; and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids.

• Wear protective eyewear for sports and hobbies with flying objects.

• Wash your hands often, especially before handling contacts or glasses.

• Rest your eyes, closing them when possible. If you can, take breaks every 20 minutes.

• Get a yearly eye examination, checking especially for glaucoma.

• Remove glasses or contact lenses before swimming or entering a hot tub.

• Follow the recommended contact lens replacement schedule prescribed by your optometrist.

• Store lenses or glasses in their proper storage case and replace the case at least every three months.

• Use only fresh solution to clean and store contact lenses.

• Clean glasses or contacts regularly and carefully.

• Wear sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection. Cataract formation probably is aggravated by sun exposure.

Don’t

• Stare at the sun and other bright lights, including laser pointers.

• Share your lenses with others.

• Touch your fingers to your eyes after shaking hands with someone.

• Stare too long at computer screens and TVs. • Use tap water to wash or store contact lenses or lens cases.

• Use homemade saline solutions.

There are multiple reports of such solutions causing serious eye damage.

• Put contact lenses in your mouth or moisten them with saliva, which is full of bacteria and can cause an infection.

• Run with scissors, or any sharp objects that could potentially poke your eyes.

• Smoke, since smoking is a major risk factor for macular degeneration which can have a devastating effect on vision.

• Use certain drops marketed for red eyes. They have a rebound phenomenon which results in more frequent use with diminishing returns.

Sources: Dr. Nancy Webb, Dr. Monroe Benaim, American Optometric Association

About eye care professionals

ogist – A physician who specializes d surgical care of the eyes and visual ntion of eye disease and injury. An has completed at least four years of ducation, four years of medical school, ship and three years of residency. An can deliver total eye care, including viexams and diagnoses.

Optometrist – A health service provider educated and trained by an accredited optometry college in a four-year course, but has not attended medical school.

They are licensed to examine the eyes, determine vision problems, and prescribe glasses, contact lenses and eye exercises. Some states permit optometrists to give limited treatments of certain eye conditions.

Optician – A technician who makes, verifies and

ng the Houston area for over 80 years

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delivers lenses, frames and other optical devices upon prescription. Functions include prescription analysis and interpretation, determination of lens forms, and adjustment, replacement and repair. Training requirements vary, with some community colleges and technical schools offering associate’s degrees.

Source: American Academy of Ophthalmology

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health

Take action now to reduce cancer risk

By MD ANDERSON CANCER CENTER

M

ore than two-thirds of cancer cases are preventable through healthy lifestyle behaviors.

At the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, it’s our mission to provide the latest, easy-to-understand information to help you stay on top of your health and lower your cancer risk. These health tips can get you started.

Eat healthy

Stress can make you desire foods high in fat, carbohydrates and sugar. Instead, eat more plant proteins, like vegetables, nuts, beans, fruits and whole grains. You’ll get important nutrients to restore your energy levels. Plus, it’ll help you maintain a healthy weight, which lowers your cancer risks.

Try this

• Prepare your own meals using whole foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Fill three-quarters of your plate with plant-based foods.

• Eliminate sweetened beverages like sodas and sports drinks.

• Avoid high-calorie, low-nutrient foods such as chips, candy, fast food and crackers.

• Drink more water.

• Limit salt intake.

Exercise regularly

It’s tempting to forgo exercise when you’re tired, but resist the urge. The feel-good chemicals released during exercise can help ease anxiety. You should aim for at least two-and-a-half hours of moderate physical activity, or 75 minutes of more vigorous physical activity each week.

Long-term weight control can help lower your risk of getting cancer. Fat cells produce hormones and other chemicals that alter your immune system and hurt your body’s ability to stop or slow the spread of cancer.

Try this

• Make a plan. At the beginning of the week choose the days and times you plan to exercise. A plan helps make exercise part of your lifestyle, not just a New Year’s resolution.

• Exercise at least three times a week.

• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of more vigorous physical activity each week.

• Exercise in the morning. The ideal time of day to exercise is when you have the most energy. For most people, this is early in the morning or before 10 a.m.

• Include strength training, but limit to two or three days each week. Your muscles need time to recover.

• Choose the right fuel. What you eat before and after you exercise can boost your results and energy level. Two to four hours before exercising, choose complex carbohydrates. And, drink lots of water.

Get some sleep

Troubled by restless nights? You’re not alone. Nearly 62 percent of American adults experience problems sleeping a few nights each week. Lack of sleep can cause moodiness and difficulty thinking, focusing and remembering. Chronic sleep loss also may lead to weight gain, high blood pressure and a weakened immune system.

Several studies also show that people who regularly having trouble sleeping may be at a higher risk of developing cancer.

Until more is known, getting a good night’s rest should be a priority. Most adults should aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night. If you feel sleepy or groggy, you may not be getting enough sleep.

Try this

• Keep to a sleep schedule. Go to bed at the same time and wake up at the same time.

• Create a bedtime routine. Do the same relaxing activity every night before bedtime, like take a bath, read or listen to music.

• Limit caffeine and do not use nicotine. Caffeine and nicotine are stimulants that interfere with sleep. Limit caffeine intake to less than two servings per day, and try not to consume caffeine after noon.

• Avoid alcohol. While it may induce sleep, alcohol

interferes with sleep during the night. It’s best to stop drinking alcohol four to six hours before bedtime.

• Keep naps short. During the day, you build up a “sleep debt” that helps you fall asleep at night. Long daytime naps may interfere with your night sleep.

• Use your bedroom for sleep only. Try not to eat or watch TV in bed. Limit the use of electronics – laptops, cellphones or tablets – in bed. Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool There’s never a bad time to make a change for the better.

You can reduce your risk for cancer by eating a healthy diet, being physically active, protecting your skin, avoiding tobacco and getting screened and vaccinated. The healthy choices you make today will have a lasting impact on your health and quality of life. Learn more about what you can do to reduce your risk for cancer.

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“I beat you, cancer” Sonia Byrd | Cancer Survivor With teams of experts working across our vast community, MD Anderson has a determination to defeat cancer that has never been stronger. To learn more, call 1-855-894-0145 or visit MakingCancerHistory.com.

Ranked one of the leading hospitals in the nation for cancer care in the America’s Best Hospitals survey published by U.S. News & World Report for 26 years.

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Memorial Hermann addressing mental health in the Houston region

I

These clinics are not designed to provide continuous outpatient follow-up for mental health needs; rather, they serve as a part of the mental health safety net as an alternative to expensive emergency room visits. Clinicians work with patients needing immediate access to psychiatric services, and refer them to the Psychiatric Response Team case managers and other community agencies as appropriate.

To assist outpatient follow-up, the clinic staff helps patients establish an appointment with an outpatient provider or directs them to resources and referrals. These clinics promote better health outcomes for patients with mental health treatment needs, decrease unnecessary emergency room visits, and decrease inpatient hospitalizations and incarcerations due to noncompliance with mental health treatment plans.

By MEMORIAL HERMANN

n Harris County, 36.8 percent of all patients given a primary diagnosis of a mental health disorder in the ER were uninsured in 2013. According to the Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority of Harris County (MHMRA), the high rate of uninsured residents in Harris County has resulted in many untreated mental health illnesses.

With a shortage of psychiatric facilities, coupled with a lack of financial resources, both insured and uninsured patients seek treatment from emergency room physicians and clinical staff untrained in psychiatry. These patients often experience long wait times while emergency personnel attend to others with more pressing physical needs.

Additionally, patients visiting Houston emergency rooms with a primary diagnosis of mental health conditions are 3.4 times more likely to be hospitalized following the emergency room visit compared to persons with a primary diagnosis unrelated to behavioral health.

In response to the community need, Memorial Hermann’s dynamic mental health services include the Psychiatric Response Team and Case Managers, Mental Health Crisis Clinics and Home Behavioral Health Services Program.

These innovative programs are staffed with professionals with the expertise needed to provide appropriate care and ongoing support for mental health patients, both inside hospitals and in the community.

Home Behavioral Health Services

Psychiatric Response Team

Since 2000, on call 24 hours a day, the Psychiatric Response Team has worked across the Memorial Hermann Health System to provide mental health expertise to all acute care campuses, delivering care to the emergency rooms and inpatient units. The team is composed of master’s-level licensed clinicians and responds to all patients with behavioral health needs, ranging from depression and psychosis to chemical dependency.

The clinicians evaluate, stabilize, arrange for transfer and develop aftercare plans for patients. A coordinated communitywide effort, the team refers patients to more than 200 mental health community treatment providers within Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties.

This large referral network allows the program to leverage the mental health community’s resourced patients to obtain care for non-resourced patients; patients are seen

regardless of ability to pay. No longer is it one ER/nurse/ physician competing with the rest of the ERs for a limited amount of psychiatric resources.

Mental Health Crisis Clinics

After identifying Humble and Spring Branch as having the highest clusters of chronic mental health issues, in 2014 Memorial Hermann opened two Mental Health Crisis Clinics to respond to each community’s significant gap in mental and behavioral health services. These clinics operate as “urgent care” mental health service providers for individuals in crisis situations.

Patients with behavioral health issues in addition to medical conditions have few options for treatment. Facilities that treat mental or behavioral issues will not accept patients with existing medical conditions such as feeding tubes, pregnancy, cardiac disorders and other conditions.

Alternatively, hospitals and outpatient clinics that provide care for medical treatment do not offer services to treat mental health issues. With few to no resources available in the community, coupled with the high cost of treatment, most patients fall through the cracks of the healthcare system and seek treatment only through emergency rooms when their behavioral issue worsens.

The Home Behavioral Health Services Program is a team of specialty nurses and social workers who help patients with medical conditions and behavioral issues in their homes. Treatment offerings include developing coping skills, medication compliance, disease management education, and help with accessing resources such as transportation and medications.

Team members also work collaboratively with other established mental health programs such as the Memorial Hermann Crisis Clinics and Case Management programs. Referrals are made from case managers in emergency rooms, hospital intake departments, physician offices, community clinics and home health staff, who often determine if patients currently receiving medical treatment are in need of behavioral or mental health services as well.

Patients with and without resources are accepted, and services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The project’s goal is to reduce emergency room visits by patients whose behavioral issues can be managed within the community setting.

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FEELING SICK BUT NOT SURE WHAT TO DO? SPEAK WITH A REGISTERED NURSE FOR ANSWERS TO YOUR HEALTH QUESTIONS. When you or a family member is feeling sick, but you’re not sure if you need to see your doctor or go to the hospital, call the free Nurse Health Line. Experienced nurses will help you decide when and where to go for medical care. These trained nurses are available around the clock, seven days a week to answer your health questions by phone. Anyone living in Harris or the surrounding counties can use this free service.

Funded through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

Free 24/7 Nurse Health Line 713.338.7979 (Toll-Free) 1.855.577.7979 Individuals with life-threatening conditions and emergencies should call 9-1-1.

sponsored by Memorial Hermann Community Benefits Corporation

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Type 2 diabetes skyrockets among kids, teens

By TRACY CARTER, M.D.

O

nce a medical rarity, children with adult diabetes are becoming common. Boys and girls who range from chubby to obese are being diagnosed in increasing numbers with Type 2 diabetes. Most are barely into their teens. Some are as young as 6.

Is your child at risk?

African-American children are especially vulnerable. A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) determined that African-American and His- Tracy Carter, M.D. panic kids have a 50 percent chance of developing diabetes compared to the 40 percent chance that Americans have overall.

In Type 2 diabetes, the cells in your child’s body don’t respond normally to the insulin produced by the pancreas, and glucose builds up in the bloodstream. This is called insulin resistance. Eventually, the sugar levels get too high for the body to handle. That could lead to other conditions in the future, like heart disease, blindness and kidney failure.

Type 2 diabetes most often affects kids who are girls,

M O R E

W A Y S

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overweight, have a family history of diabetes, and are Native American, AfricanAmerican, Asian or Hispanic.

Diabetes and its complications can take a toll on life expectancy when untreated. Diabetics diagnosed before the age of 15 have a life expectancy 17 years shorter than those who develop the condition when they are older – and 27 years shorter than that of non-diabetics.

And the problem is growing worse.

By 2050, the number of teen diabetics will increase by nearly 50 percent to more than 84,000, according to a 2012 study by the CDC in the journal Diabetes Care.

There’s no definitive cause for the rise in Type 2 diabetes among children. As with adults, obesity, poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle are contributing factors.

According to the American Diabetes Association, children born to parents with Type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop the disease than those with non-diabetic parents.

Some children who have Type 2 diabetes have no signs or symptoms. Others experience:

C O N Q U E R

• Increased thirst and urination.

• Increased hunger.

• Fatigue.

• Blurred vision.

• Slow healing sores or frequent infections.

• Areas of darkened skin, often in the armpits or neck.

• Unexplained weight loss.

Tips to help prevent diabetes

To help avoid Type 2 diabetes, children should: • Eat portion-controlled, healthy food choices.

• Be active, every day if possible.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Have regular physical exams.

Have your child regularly checked by a pediatrician. Simple blood tests can identify diabetes. Ask about lifestyle strategies and medical options for managing or avoiding this disease. And set a good example for your children by committing to a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Carter is board-certified in Pediatrics and Internal Medicine and sees patients at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic –The Vintage. Her clinical interests include adolescent medicine.

To schedule an appointment, call 713-442-0000.

C A N C E R

Exceptional Cancer Care Just Got Even Better In our beautiful new facility, everything is under one roof – from our connected team of experts to state-of-the-art technology for radiation therapy.

Kelsey-Seybold’s nationally accredited Cancer Center is focused on not only treating patients, but on providing personal, coordinated care that encourages healing.

Now, with state-of-the-art technology for radiation therapy and our beautiful and spacious facilities, we’re better equipped than ever to help our patients be victorious over cancer. It’s just one more way our exceptional cancer care has gotten even better.

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Mawyiah Buseje and Kofi Taharka were actively involved in the recent National Black United Front convention.

NBUF members seek empowerment, justice

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

“Forward ever, backward never” has been the mantra of the National Black United Front (NBUF) since its inception in 1980. Houston recently played host to NBUF’s 36th annual national convention aimed at strengthening the organization and ensuring its continued movement toward empowering the Black community.

Local NBUF leader Kofi Taharka, also the group’s national chairman, said Houston was the perfect venue.

“We’re dealing with high racial tensions across the country and Houston seems to want to bill itself as a world-class city,” Taharka said. “However, those of us who live here know that Houston has just as many issues as Ferguson, Charleston and Baltimore, sometimes in different ways.

“So it’s a great opportunity for Black people in particular, and all people who seek justice, to be able to hear about solutions that other people have been using across the country so we can confront the racial injustice we face every day locally and nationally.”

As an organization fighting for self-determination for Black people, NBUF had a two-pronged goal for its four-day national convention. Internally, according to Taharka, NBUF sought to strengthen its organizational structure, which relies heavily upon its chapters.

Externally, NBUF wanted to interface with the community and

present itself as a working model of inter-generational organization.

Conference attendee Marcus Richard appreciates NBUF’s track record on justice, as evidenced by the conference’s opening event, a public forum on police violence.

“They’re always on the frontline, from political activism to doing whatever they can do to help the community,” Richard said.

NBUF member Mawyiah Buseje’s focus was on life after the conference.

“What you’ll see is a stronger group coming together because we have a lot of new and young people across the country, gravitating more toward the work; doing what our community needs done,” said Buseje.

For the justice-minded, NBUF offers a bevy of service opportunities, including their Feed the Hood initiative (every third Saturday) and Sankofa Study Circle at NBUF Houston headquarters, 2428 Southmore Blvd. (every first and third Sunday).

Speaking on the issue that has received NBUF’s greatest focus, the prison industrial complex, Taharka said, “We have to look deeper than individual cases and look at the systematic, structural things that have criminalized Black, Brown, and poor people and made it into an industry where people are making money off of it.

“Until we deal with structural issues, we will continue to have Freddie Gray, Michael Brown, Trayvon Martin, and racial violence against people like in South Carolina.”

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A&M to open engineering academy at HCC engineers in the workforce is 43,000 Texas A&M University anby 2020. nounced the formation of the Texas Chevron has donated $5 milA&M-Chevron Engineering Academy lion to support the academy at HCC, at Houston Community College, an as well as three other academies at innovative co-enrollment partnership Texas Southmost College in Brownsdeveloped to address the state’s growville, Alamo Colleges in San Antonio ing need for engineers. and El Centro College in Dallas.

Qualified students will be admit“We are excited about this ted to the A&M College of Engineerprogram because our goal is to ating, will complete the first two years tract the very best students, even if of coursework at two-year colleges, circumstances require them to stay and will complete their engineering close to home for the first two years degrees in College Station. The acadof college,” said Dr. M. Katherine emy at HCC will begin in fall 2016.

Banks, vice chancellor and dean of “HCC is proud to partner with Texas A&M Engineering.

Texas A & M University and Chevron “This is not a traditional transfer to create this exciting, affordable opprogram. The academy students are portunity for our students,” said Dr. enrolled in the engineering college Cesar Maldonado, HCC chancellor. at Texas A&M from day one. We are “Our nation is in need of more engiHCC Northwest President Dr. Zachary Hodges celebrates the Texas A&M partnership with students. committed to supporting these stuneers and this program will prepare Science and Technology projected that 1 million dents throughout their academic prostudents for a career in this high-demore STEM degrees would be needed in the next gram, which will result in a degree from one of mand market.” decade. In Texas alone, the projected need for the premier engineering colleges in the nation.”

A 2012 report by the President’s Council on

County schools receive afterschool funding Twenty-five schools in Aldine, Alief, Galena Park, Houston, Pasadena, Sheldon and a state charter school will receive a share of

$650,000 in afterschool funding as the 2015-2016 school year begins.

The program, called the Partnership Project, is

administered by the Center for After-School, Summer and Expanded Learning for Kids, or CASE for Kids, a division of Harris County Depart-

ment of Education.

Funding is designated for economically disadvantaged children ages 4-12 and is provided by the HoustonGalveston Area Council, the Texas Workforce Commission and local foundations.

“The goal of the Partnership Project is to invest in comprehensive afterschool programs that have a primary focus on numeracy and literacy development,” said CASE for Kids Director Lisa Thompson-Caruthers.

“CASE will provide funded project support for numeracy and literacy integration into academic and enrichment activities, as well as site-based coaching to improve overall program quality.”

classified TRANSPORTATION JOB FAIR SPONSORED BY

THE HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Saturday July 18, 2015 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Scarborough High School 4141 Costa Rica Houston, TX 77092 HISD WILL BE CONDUCTING IN-PERSON INTERVIEWS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: School Bus Drivers 15.70 per hour School Bus Mechanics Mechanic Helpers Transportation Attendants Up to $900 Attendance Incentive and $250 Sign On Bonus for new Bus Drivers!

Free CDL Training, Guaranteed Route Hours, Flexible schedules, High Tech Buses, Benefits and Retirement available Please bring 2 forms of ID For further information check our website at www.DriveHISD.org or CALL (713) 226-4531 All applicant are subject to verification of work experience, Certification, References, drug testing, and criminal history check, It is the policy of the Houston Independent School District not to discriminate on the basis of age, color, handicap or disability, ancestry, national origin, marital status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or political affiliation in its educational or employment schedules and activities.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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JULY 16 | 2015 | DEFENDER

Former Oiler gives back through foundation

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Jackson played defensive back for the Houston Oilers and Tennessee Titans.

By MAX EDISON Defender

S

ummertime is the time for family reunions – renewing old acquaintances and reminiscing about the good old days. That feeling of nostalgia hit former Houston Oiler defensive back Steve Jackson, and he decided to do something about it.

Jackson organized an Oiler reunion weekend, invited some of his old teammates and included a community day for youth from Big Brothers/ Big Sisters. Through his Steve Jackson Foundation (SJF), the native Houstonian has partnered with Big Brothers/Big Sisters for a new program, Project 24.

“Project 24 is an initiative started by my foundation to address the issue of a lack of mentors for young people, not only across the nation, but specifically in the city of Houston,” Jackson said. “What we’re trying to do is get 24 new mentors before this year is over.”

Jackson, who attended Klein Forest High School, was drafted in the third round (71st overall) of the 1991 NFL draft by his hometown team after a standout collegiate career at Purdue University.

Warren Moon, Oiler quarterback from 1984-93, joined Jackson at the reunion.

His nine-year NFL career saw him transition from a Houston Oiler importance of education, setting positive goals and to a Tennessee Titan. After hanging up his cleats, athletics.”

Jackson served as a secondary coach for the Buffalo Other events included a reunion get-together Bills, Washington Redskins and Detroit Lions. party, a pre-golf tourney caddy shack tournament In 2014 he started his foundation. Its mission is and the main event, a golf tournament at Wildcat to attract and retain students at an age where foundaCountry Club. tional academic and athletic skills can be influenced For Jackson, bringing many of his former teamand mental confidence strengthened. mates back to the city to reminisce about the guys The recent Oiler reunion served a dual purpose. It who wore the oil derricks on their helmets is an garnered much needed attention and funds for Project attempt to keep alive a memory of a franchise that is 24 and gave former Oiler teammates an opportunity gone forever. to get together.

“Growing up in Houston I was always an Oiler “We started with our outreach event at Splash fan,” Jackson recalled. “I played in Dan Pastorini’s Town where we had 100 Big Brother/Big Sister mengolf tournament last year. Seeing all of those former tees out to enjoy a little fun in the water,” Jackson players there, guys that I grew up idolizing, guys said. “We included in that event a Q&A session whose posters I had on my wall, was unbelievable. with a group of Oiler alums speaking about the Then to actually become a part of that small frater-

e Ja About Stev n

ckson

in Housto • Born 1969 League Football tle • Played Lit s Club ad with Oaks D otball and track at fo • Lettered in igh School H t s re o r tF in Kle four-year sta a s a w , e u and • At Purd ll-American A , in ta p a c list er, team rd semi-fina a a w A e p r o h as a Jim T Bowl XXXIV r e p u S in d • Playe Rams Titan vs. the ren, Dominique hild • Has two c vie (10) (14) and Ste

nity was probably the most awesome feeling in the world.”

“Once the team left and we went to Tennessee [they realized] there would never be another Houston Oiler organization, another Houston Oiler team. We were it. There will be Texans and other organizations, but there will never be another group of men who can say they were Houston Oilers.

“As we all get older, to be able to come back together and enjoy the camaraderie, reminisce about old times, funny times, the locker room, the games, the on the field stuff, it’s just really, really special.”

For more info on Project 24 visit www.stevejacksonfoundation.org.

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ENDING SOON Serena Williams defeated Garbine Muguruza to win Wimbledon.

Queen Serena’s reign continues

UH Cougars getting noticed

Serena Williams keeps proving why she’s the most dominant athlete in the world today, regardless of gender. Williams recently annihilated No. 20 seeded Garbine Muguruza of Spain 6-4, 6-4 to capture the Wimbledon crown. The win was Williams sixth at the All England Club. In addition, the victory was the 21st major win for Williams, one behind Steffi Graff who has the modern record for major titles with 22. Williams has now completed the “Serena Slam,” winning all four major tennis tournaments over a 12-month period. A win at the US Open (Aug. 31-Sept. 13) will give her the Grand Slam, winning all four titles in the same calendar year.

Williams has won the Australian Open, the French Open and Wimbledon in 2015.

It’s still about eight weeks before the beginning of the college football season, but University of Houston Cougar players are already appearing on multiple watch lists in their position groups.

Adrian McDonald and William Jackson III were recently named to the Jim Thorpe Award Watch List, honoring the nation’s top defensive back. Jackson and McDonald were also named to the Nagurski Trophy Watch List and Jackson is also on the Bednarik Award Watch List.

In addition, McDonald was named to Dave Campbell’s five-man Texas’ College Player of the Year Watch List and the American’s Preseason First Team by Athlon Sports and Phil Steele. Jackson was also named to Steele’s and Athlon’s Preseason First Team All-American Athletic Conference Team. Cougars Kenneth Farrow and Kyle Bullard were named to the Maxwell and Lou Groza Award Watch Lists, respectively, honoring the nation’s top offensive player and kicker.

Astros’ Keuchel AllStar starter Astros pitcher Dallas Keuchel was recently named the AL starting pitcher for the mid-summer classic. Keuchel will become the fourth pitcher in franchise history to start an All-Star Game, joining Roger Clemens (2004), Mike Scott (1987) and J.R. Richard (1980). Keuchel, 27, a first-time All-Star, finished his first half of play with an 11-4 record and a 2.23 ERA with three complete games in 19 starts. He joins fellow starter second baseman Jose Altuve and manager A.J. Hinch on the 2015 AL All-Star Team. Altuve was named the AL’s starting second baseman, while Hinch was named to the AL’s coaching staff.

PVAMU seeks hall of famers The Prairie View A &M University Sports Hall of Fame has begun accepting new applications for its 21st Sports Hall of Fame Class. Nomination forms are now available on the university’s website, www.pvpanthers.com. This year’s Hall of Fame Weekend will take place in late October with the banquet scheduled for Friday, Oct. 30, 2 on the campus of PVAMU in the Willie A. Tempton Memorial Student Center Ballroom. The honorees will be introduced at a special halftime ceremony the next day during PVAMU’s home football game vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff at 1 p.m. in Waller, Texas (Waller ISD Stadium).

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JULY 16 | 2015 DEFENDER

Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com

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CAREER & RECOVERY RESOURCES LUNCHEON……..Career and their backgrounds, current work and their vision for the future of Houston’s children.

Recovery Resources, Inc. (CRR) presented their 19th annual Barrier Breaker Awards Children At Risk is a nonprofit organization leading the way to improving the quality Luncheon to honor philanthropist and women’s advocate Indrani Goradia and of life for children through research, collaboration, and advocacy. The most recent Indrani’s Light Foundation. Goradia is known for her leadership in the Houston series featured State Rep. Sylvester Turner and CEO Dr. Bob Sanborn. Those in community to stop gender-based violence, which represents some of the resources attendance included Larry Payne, Noel Pinnock, Mandi Kimball, Fred Stawitz, CRR offers. The luncheon also included heart-felt stories from clients who shared how LaPorcha Carter, Katie McConnell, Rashena Flagg and Tonyel Simon ………

CRR helped change their lives for the better. The luncheon, the NATIONAL BLACK UNITED FRONT CONVENTION…….. organization’s main fundraiser, raised $182,584 with proceeds The National Black United Front held its 36th annual national Defender TOP EVENTS going directly to benefit CRR training and employment services. convention in Houston, which provided a four-day celebration More photos on defendernetwork.com The emcees were KTRK’s Cynthia Cisneros and sportscaster open to the community. The convention kicked off with a forum See Events on KTRK Ch.13’s ‘Crossroads’ Spencer Tillman. In attendance were CEO Dr. Vernus Swisher on police terrorism, brutality and misconduct, a social gathering, with Melanie Lawson on Sunday Morning and wife Alma Swisher, Courtney Blackburn, Swatantra banquet and ended with an ancestral remembrance ceremony and Bimla Jain, Carol Helliker, Mark Lee, Paula Sutton, Dr. Milton Moore, and breakfast. Each event exemplified the organization’s motto of “Forward Ever, Philamena Baird, David Mendez, Tom Ramsey, Marina Coryat, Kaye Horn, Backward Never.” Those in attendance included Kofi Taharka, Jinaki Muhammad, Kathy Flanagan, Karen Jenkins and more. Congrats!........CHILDREN AT RISK Kristina Jacobs, Salim Adofo, Ben Hall, Robert Muhammad, Marion Toland, LUNCHEON…….. Children At Risk hosted the fourth Champions for Children Janet Baker, Omowale Kefling, Sadiyah Evangelista, DJ 360 Degreez, Sade luncheon for community advocates to connect with community leaders. The informal Perkins, Ojo Shango, Simba Moses, Trevor and Nikeesha Stewart and Mawiyah discussions with Houston’s mayoral candidates allow attendees to learn more about Buseje.

Cynthia Cisneros, Indrani Goradia and Spencer Tillman

LaPorcha Carter and Dr. Bob Sanborn

Nikeesha and Trevor Stewart

Alma and Dr. Vernus Swisher and Marina Coryat

Mandi Kimball and Fred Stawitz

Dr. Kathy Flanagan, Kaye Horn, Bonar Luzey II and Paula Sutton

Noel Pinnock and Larry Payne

Salim Adofo, Kristina Jacobs, Malik Muhammad and Jinaki Muhammad

Ojo Shango, Sade Perkins and Simba Moses

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