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By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter
From back-to-school shopping, to last-minute annual check-ups, summer vacation is coming to a close, and this month students are preparing for a return to the classroom. But while this bustling time of year comes with newness and milestones, students must also arm themselves with tools to protect their physical and mental health.
As children are often noted as “the future,” youth wellness is integral to not only health and happiness, but to a better community and society overall.
“A child’s health is the nation’s wealth,” said Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, scientist and former Indian president.
Featuring ways to stop the spread of the common cold to COVID-19, and resources to prevent obesity and depression, this back-to-school health special edition emphasizes the importance of prioritizing student’s physical and mental wellness so they can thrive in the classroom and beyond.
Monitoring children’s health is important from infancy. Regular check-ups, eye doctor visits, checking for scoliosis, teaching respiratory etiquette, encouraging physical activity, serving balanced meals, and providing positive, safe environments for youth to express themselves can be key in contributing to young people’s overall health and development.
With August dedicated to children’s eye health, local ophthalmology pediatrician Dr. Janine Smith-Marshall weighs in on the importance of eye health and what visual afflictions may look like for a child. In addition, Luke Stikeleather, founder of the National Scoliosis Center, shares how to check for scoliosis, and the ins and outs of helping children cope with the deformity. Further, experts share ways for students to protect themselves in and out of the classroom, by using tissues when sneezing and coughing, eating well, and staying physically active. Like in adults, students’ physical and mental health are equally important, and often intertwined. While physical ailments can weigh heavily on the emotional and mental well-being of a child, various social elements can also contribute to challenges. Rampant gun violence, the opioid crisis, socioeconomic disparities, lack of access to healthy foods and
Keeping Children Healthy: A Holistic Approach to Addressing Youth Health
limited physical activity are some of the contributing factors to the increasing mental health crisis affecting youth across the District.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes challenging social and environmental factors can have negative implications on students’ overall wellbeing.
“Youth with poor mental health may struggle with school and grades, decision making, and their health. Mental health problems in youth often go hand-inhand with other health and behavioral risks like increased risk of drug use, experiencing violence, and higher risk sexual behaviors that can lead to HIV, STDs, and unintended pregnancy.”
On the heels of National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, learn about the American Psychiatric Association’s Moore Equity Mental Health Youth Summit, and how youth fitness can contribute to mental wellness.
While it might be hard to see the summer sun and vacation slowly fade away, it’s important to ensure students have a safe return back-to-school and a great year. Remember, prioritizing physical and mental wellness is an important contribution to students growing and thriving during the 2024-2025 school year and beyond.
5 The back-to-school season
Q&A: Learning to Protect Your Children’s Vision with Dr. Janine
By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter
Children’s eyes require special attention. The quality of a child’s vision affects various aspects of their development from academic performance to social interactions, and even self-esteem.
As the weeks inch closer to students’ return back to school, it is critical to prioritize vision care to prepare for a healthy and productive year in and out of the classroom.
Dr. Janine Smith- Marshall, director of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Pediatric Ophthalmology at Howard University, spoke with The Washington Informer to discuss visual health challenges in children across the District, and how best to address these issues.
What are some of the most concerning visual health issues that you see in children across the District?
JSM: In general, the most common visual disability across the board for children and adults, is uncorrected refractive error. Refractive error is the inability to focus the eyes-- so the need for glasses--that can cause visual disability. But certainly, most of the time, refractive error develops in childhood… For kids, uncorrected refractive error can certainly cause issues with schooling and learning, which can ultimately lead to problems down the line.
Are there signs that parents could look for with children that might suggest that they have issues with their vision?
JSM: Yes, whenever there’s any kind of developmental delay, whether that be fine motor or gross motor--- so [if] kids are delayed with walking or crawling, [or] they’re not able to write properly or grasp things properly--- it’s important to ensure that their vision is checked, to ensure that the visual acuity is not causing that or contributing to that.
Also, you can certainly have situations where kids are getting close to screens when they’re trying
HU Pediatric Ophthalmologist Shares Expert Information on Children’s Eye Health
to focus, tilting or turning of their head, closing one eye. And then, the most obvious things, if there’s any misalignment of the eyes, crossing or drifting of their eyes, droopy eyelids, covering one eye, complaints of redness, irritation or extreme light sensitivity. All of those things should be checked out if they are occurring on a regular basis, understood.
How challenging is it with a child to give a correct eye exam?
JSM: It can be difficult, it’s a skill, just like anything else, which is why we do have the specialty of pediatric ophthalmology. Unlike adults, [where] you can just ask them to read a chart, or you can do tests with very little difficulty, with kids, sometimes those things can be challenging, and so we have special tests, and we are extremely good at the basics to be able to detect issues with kids.
You really have to hone in. You can’t do it as quickly, but with the right skill set it is not that much more challenging than adults.
Are teachers a valuable asset in identifying vision issues in children?
JSM: Absolutely. I mean, honestly, sometimes teachers are spending more time with kids than their parents and they are having them do visual tasks as
they are assigning schoolwork, so teachers are always a valuable asset in being able to figure out if a kid is having difficulty.
Oftentimes, if a kid fails a vision screening, I’ll ask not only what the parents are noticing at home, but if
the teacher has noticed any issues during school to evaluate what impact the decreased vision is having on the kid.
For younger kids, you may not see it in the classroom, because most of the things that they’re doing is
table work… But usually starting around third to fourth grade is when the shift occurs, where the teacher is at the front of the classroom and the kids are copying on the board, and that’s when a lot of times, uncorrected refractive errors manifest and become symptomatic in the school.
If there is any indication that your child has a lazy eye, is that something you should be concerned about, and how is that generally corrected?
JSM: Absolutely. So, the medical term for lazy eye is amblyopia, and amblyopia is actually the inability of the brain to use the eye. So it’s called a lazy eye because the brain has essentially turned the eye off. The brain doesn’t want to use it because it has to work harder to use that eye…
We recommend that all pediatricians and family practitioners do yearly vision screening starting at the age of three.
HEALTHIER HAPPY HOUR
August 12 • Noon-1:00 PM
4 SodexoMagic, a partnership of Sodexo and former NBA allstar Magic Johnson, advocates for food equity and security throughout the District, highlighting nutrition education and positive eating habits in K-12 institutions. (Courtesy Photo/SodexoMagic. com)
SodexoMagic Combats Communal
By Jada Ingleton WI Contributing Fellow
With a commitment to equality, food and facilities management provider SodexoMagic serves as a catalyst for change in nutrition education and quality of life across District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), as well as historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
education, citing the importance of foundational lifelong habits, cognitive and academic growth, and social and economic benefits, such as positive impacts on mental health and self-esteem.
Health benefits
} Doctor visits, shots, and checkups
} Medicines — brand name and generic
} Dental care
} Eye care*
} Hospital stays
} Urgent and emergency care
} Maternity care
} Durable medical equipment, prosthetics, and disposable medical supplies
} Home healthcare
} Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
} 24-hour Nurse HelpLine
* For DC Healthy Families Program and Immigrant Children’s Program enrollees
Extra benefits
} Free Boys & Girls Club memberships for kids 6–18 at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington (District of Columbia locations only)
} Free YMCA and Boy and Girl Scouts of America memberships for kids
} Baby and Toddler Essentials such as a convertible car seat, portable crib, diapers, safe sleep kit, halo sleep sack, soothie pacifier, infant sleep guidelines and education, and baby monitor
} Over-the-counter drugs and supplies: options include, but are not limited to, cold and allergy remedies, baby care, first aid, eye care, pain relievers, adult supplies, and feminine care products
} GED test vouchers
} Capital Bikeshare Passes
} Rides to community services
} Digital Mental Health Toolkit
} Employment and education support
} Amerigroup DC Community Resource Link
— search for free and low-cost community services by ZIP code
} Voice language translator
Launched in 2006 by the food service company Sodexo and NBA Hall of Famer Earvin “Magic” Johnson, SodexoMagic has since expanded to over 6,500 employees and 1,770 sites in corporate, healthcare, education, and aviation. The organization works with K-12 institutions to provide food security solutions and management through service programs, and utilizes audience engagement initiatives that offer students a chance to be directly involved in shaping a healthy environment in their schools.
“Because we believe in the power of school communities to create an uplifting sense of belonging for students, we believe passionately in the power of fantastic, responsibly sourced scratch-made food to bring people together and elevate wellbeing,” said Stacie Reiter, SodexoMagic’s national director of Nutrition.
“This helps solidify that important foundation for a healthier future, both for our students and their communities.”
Reiter emphasized students and young audiences are a priority target for dietary wellness and health
Initiatives such as the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, Magic Kitchen, the Future Chefs competition, and more help forward SodexoMagic’s mission of hands-on learning in classrooms, interactive engagement in culinary practices, and finding opportunities to learn more about how to combat communal issues like child obesity and food insecurity.
“Our desire is not only to serve our students nutritious meals for that day, but to teach them how to make healthier eating choices that will impact their success in and outside of the classroom for the rest of their lives,” said Reiter.
SodexoMagic doesn’t seem to be slowing down. In May, Johnson took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to say he and his wife convened with various company leaders and partners and were excited about plans for the future.
“Cookie and I had an amazing dinner with my company executives and amazing business partners from Sodexo and Sodexo Live! tonight, where we discussed the great momentum we created in 2024 and how we’ll carry that into an even better 2025 and beyond!”
For more information on SodexoMagic and how to join their fight for quality of life, visit sodexomagic.com.
By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter
Scoliosis, an often hereditary spinal condition that can develop in infancy or early childhood, is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine causing an irregular S-or C-shaped curve, that can cause discomfort and challenges, and may require treatment.
Scoliosis affects 2-3% of the population accounting for roughly six to nine million people across the United States, with “the primary age of onset for scoliosis is 10-15 years old, occurring equally among both genders,” according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.
Luke Stikeleather, founder, president, and chief orthotist with the National Scoliosis Center, works with a plethora of children facing scoliosis at both his Baltimore and Fairfax County office locations.
As an orthotist, Stikeleather is trained in fitting and creating braces and splints. He spoke with The Washington Informer to share expert facts about scoliosis and clarify any misconceptions.
Did You Know the Numerous Classifications of Scoliosis?
“We can classify scoliosis into several different categories of types or subtypes. The typical type that affects the largest population is idiopathic scoliosis - the root word of that means, ‘without larger unknown.’ Even though that has historically been the term, we now know more than ever that this is a genetic component that is often seen in family members and relationally passed down.
There’s also syndromic scoliosis that is going along with genetic deletions and some of the other things that have been found in other medical conditions.
There’s neuromuscular scoliosis, common to conditions like muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy. There can even be traumatic scoliosis, where an injury has occurred.
Then there’s congenital scoliosis, where you’re born with an absolute defect in the bone structure of the spine that can cause a curve to be there at the point of birth and progress over time.”
We call it adolescent idiopathic,
Learn About Scoliosis with Luke Stikeleather
Founder of The National Scoliosis Center Provides Expert Insight On The Chronic Disease
because it typically is more apparent as it gets bigger and that changes the shape of the torso. You see evidence of it in larger curves and smaller curves. So around [ages] 10/11, we start this last big growth spurt for girls. Around [ages] 12/13, it happens for boys, and so that’s why that’s the larger group of identification. But it does absolutely happen in younger children, too. And so, our population for treating it is anything from infants to 17/18, years old.
Did You Know the Varying Degrees of Scoliosis?
“Scoliosis can be a small curve. It can be a single curve, a double curve. It can be higher in the spine or lower in the spine. So it depends on the [individual] and how that person is growing.
It’s often driven by growth. So the occurrence is in about 3% of the population of that a small minority will end up having to have it treated. And we don’t treat curves, generally speaking, below 20 degrees, so there needs to be a size that the physician deems appropriate for bracing.”
Between 20 and 50 degrees is the range that’s often suggested for bracing. And above 50, surgeons start to talk about the need, potentially, for a surgical intervention for a fusion of the spine.”
So, identifying it is the first line of priority and defense, and if you can identify a small curve, treat a small curve, and keep it at those smaller values, then you’ve avoided a big problem in the future.”
Did You Know Parents and Physicians Can Help Detect Scoliosis Early?
“School screening used to be a common thing in every state, be-
cause they identified scoliosis as a significant condition that needed to be addressed. The sooner the better. Unfortunately, because there have been some differing views expressed
about the cost of screening, it’s largely been eliminated in many places. So it’s often a state by state and a locality decision as to whether or not to have screening. Well, that puts a tremendous burden on the physician now to be the point for doing annual exams on children and looking for scoliosis, and that can also be a bit of a hit and miss proposition. The third line of defense is parents, noticing asymmetrical differences in their children, their shoulder asymmetry, is one shoulder higher or lower, any lumps or bumps that they notice in the summer, in the bathing suit when at the beach or the pool, things [of that nature], and then take them to the pediatrician for an evaluation.
For parents, a good tool to do is to go online and look at scoliosis, YouTube videos about screening [and] identifying, because there are some tools and guidelines to look for.”
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
By Jarrett Spence WI Contributing Writer
Despite the ever-growing popularity of games that can keep youth glued to electronics, it is important young people also find ways to move and exercise in order to be healthy and thrive.
“We have entered a new generation where digital is king. While it has been amazing seeing sports like esports continue to grow–getting more youth involved– we can't underemphasize the importance of getting outside, being active, and staying healthy,” said Kelsey Nelson, a sports journalist, George Washington University professor and vice president of the Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ).
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports one in five American children are struggling with obesity.
Encouraging Physical Activity: A Critical Key to Children’s Overall Health
Further, while the CDC suggests that children ages 6 to 17 should engage in 60 minutes of physical activity daily, a study revealed that 24% of youth those ages are actually moving an hour a day.
Placing an emphasis on physical activity at a young age can build a fountain for children’s future. Not only does regular exercise help with physical health but also mental health.
“It's been great to see leagues like the NFL invest in NFL Flag, helping engage more young people in the sport of flag football,” Nelson told The Informer. “I played in an NFL passing flag football league coming up through the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington. This is why I'm a big advocate of after-school programs and keeping young people actively engaged."
According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise can help with depression,
anoxia, gain confidence, and cope with problems in a healthy way.
Tony Cephas, a gym director at Little Gym Capitol Hill, told The Informer there are a number of ways to get young people and parents can be key in ensuring youth start physical activity at an early age.
“For parents, I would advise just moving around with your little ones— taking them to the playground, letting them play with other kids, and doing all kinds of fun things. You want kids to be challenged in safe environments– doing things like jumping or just balancing– and being in a place like The Little Gym is great for those things because we have a padded, safe environment,” Cephas said.
From football, to gymnastics, to taking a bike ride, Cephas said parents emphasizing the importance of physical activity at a young age is important for children’s development overall.
“But no matter what you do, it’s always best to embrace your little ones’ adventurous side, allow them to explore, and just let them have fun. Encourage them to have fun and do it as best as you can under your supervision, of course. But you want to just encourage movement, play some sports with them, engage with them, and just spend some quality time with them being physical.
5501 Silver Hill Rd, District Heights, MD 20747
5 Encouraging physical activity in youth is a critical contribution to young people’s overall health and wellness. (WI File Photo/Abdullah Konte)
Pregnant Black Women Are Dying: A Crisis that Demands a Solution
Ruth Perot, SHIRE CEO, and SHIRE Consultants Makayla Butler and Seth Washington.
Nationally, Black women’s birthing experiences are three times more likely to culminate in death than White women’s, and these figures have worsened each year.
In Washington, DC, Black pregnant women are similarly impacted by pregnancy complications. Jarringly, despite making up only about half of all births in recent years, Black birthing is implicated in 90% of birth-related deaths in the district. Even more striking are the disparities between the predominantly-Black Wards 7 and 8 and other Wards. Between 2014 and 2018, 70% of pregnancy-related deaths occurred in Wards 7 and 8, compared to the complete absence of death among women in the predominantly-White Wards 2 and 3 during this time. Moreover, Wards 7 and 8 had the highest proportion of low-birth-weight babies, according to available data. Wards 7 and 8 also had the highest number of preterm births.
These unnerving statistics demonstrate alarming disparities in the birthing experiences of Black women, particularly in DC. Racism lies at the center of this crisis. The evidence is compelling that Black women have been disproportionately impacted by system-wide discrimination from healthcare providers, institutions, and other contributors to determinants of health. Black women commonly deal with limited economic resources, limited access to healthcare, poor quality of care, and limited access to healthy food. While women already face discrimination from healthcare providers, the added layer of race further complicates the matter in ways that too often end in tragedy.
These systemic issues could feed into health disparities experienced by individuals. Compared to the national average, Wards 7 and 8 had more cardiovascular, diabetic, and hypertensive deaths. The increasing prevalence of comorbidities in the maternal population correlates with an increase in pregnancy complications related to obesity and other chronic conditions. It is important for Black women to
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know what to expect from their providers regarding their overall health along with their pregnancy status, and to demand quality treatment.
Summit Health Institute for Research and Education, Inc. (SHIRE) has made this alarming epidemic an urgent priority in 2024. SHIRE recently collaborated with George Washington University medical students at the Obesity Summit held in June 2024 to take on this dire matter through social media, community partnerships, and strategies to empower Black pregnant women. SHIRE’s social media campaign seeks to include pregnancy resources, questions to ask in OB visits, common misconceptions related to pregnancy and nutrition, and natural birthing options, such as the support of midwives and doulas. An additional initiative will be the convening of Wellness Circles for pregnant Black women, patterned after SHIRE’s highly successful Wellness Circle programs for individuals with diabetes and hypertension. Further, an effective social media campaign is best mobilized with the assistance of community partners.
Many organizations, businesses, and institutions in the community have connections, facilities, and resources that can be leveraged to better disseminate valuable information. SHIRE welcomes the engagement and financial support of individuals and organizations as we seek to advance this exciting program. We invite potential supporters to visit our website at www. shireinc.org for ways to contribute. Our vision consists of eliminating preventable deaths in the Black community in Washington, DC through the empowerment of expectant Black
mothers to take charge of their health and the futures of their children. We aspire to achieve healthy pregnancies, successful births, and quality infant care for Black women who hold our future in their hands.
Sycamore & Oak 1110 Oak Drive SE Washington, DC (on the St. Elizabeths East Campus) 2:00-6:00 pm
Back-to-School Backpack Drive and Block Party!
Live entertainment with Culture Queen Go-Go Music by Sirius Company
Free Food and Drinks
Special Giveaways & Backpacks with supplies for the first 500 kids! All are welcome!
Become a patient at a health care home where you feel like family.
• Primary Care & Check-ups
• Dental Health
• SMART Immediate Care – Walk-Ins Available
• Mental Health & Support Groups
• Gender Affirming Care
• Women's Health Care
• Care for Young PeoplePediatrics 10 and up!
• Substance Use & Recovery Care
• HIV & STI Testing & Prevention including PEP & PrEP
• Insurance Assistance
• Pharmacy
• and more...
Submitted by Safeway
Safeway believes wellbeing is for everyone, which is why we are launching the Sincerely Health platform to help customers eat, live, and feel better, all while rewarding healthy choices with grocery coupons and discounts.
Our Sincerely Health Platform provides the insights customers need to understand how diet and lifestyle impact one’s body & mind.
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Receive grocery coupons for actions like creating an account, linking your pharmacy account, and more. You
The Sincerely Health Platform
can also earn Healthy Points for progressing through goals and completing other healthy activities, which can be redeemed for more grocery discounts.
• Get Peace of Mind: Your information is protected and secured. Please see our Privacy Policy and HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices to learn more.
The Sincerely Health platform is
free to participate in, and can be accessed in our Safeway app.
Once in the Safeway App select the ‘Health’ icon to be taken to the Health Dashboard. In the dashboard you will be prompted to create a personal health and pharmacy account.
Once your account is set up, complete the Health Survey to receive a personalized Health Score. Your personal Health Score helps you under-
stand how your daily behaviors and lifestyle may affect your health and wellbeing.
You can use this score to create goals in the Health Dashboard. Health goals fall into the four categories of Activity, Nutrition, Lifestyle, and Sleep. Once you have set specific goals you will be notified throughout the day for check-ins on your various goals.
Many of the goals in the Activity,
Sleep, or Lifestyle categories can be tracked directly from your connected device. If you don’t want to connect to a device, you can also manually track your activities.
Starting and completing goals will earn you ‘Healthy Points’ which can be redeemed for grocery coupons designed to help encourage you and your personal goals.
Another way to enhance your overall experience is by connecting your pharmacy account to the Safeway app. This account will be set up in conjunction with your Health Dashboard. By connecting your pharmacy account, you can view and manage your prescriptions, request refills, receive refill reminders, access vaccination and immunizations records, schedule appointments for vaccines and immunizations, and locate Safeway pharmacies.
Safeway’s Sincerely Health Mission is to improve people’s lives by making healthier living a possibility. We are committed to people’s wellbeing by purposefully integrating their daily actions, nutrition and health needs to offer personalized and inspiring choices so they can live healthier lives.
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GETTING SERVICES: A QUICK START GUIDE
“LiveLongDC” to 888-811
Text “Li veLongDC” t o 888- 81 1 f or nal oxone, f ent anyl t est st ri ps, or servi ce l ocat i ons.
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For connect i ons t o care, cal l t he ccess Hel pLi ne at Access HelpLine
Fi nd servi ces or support s by Ward: myrecoverydc.org/services-by-ward
combats the opioid epidemic by mobilizing the community with strong interagency coordination, community input, and a range of direct services and supports for individuals dealing with substance use disorders.
To request t rai ni ng f rom a cert i f i ed nal oxone t rai ner f or groups of 1 0 or more, e- mai l : naloxone@dc.gov
For cl ean- up of drug paraphernal i a or syri nge servi ces, e- mai l : syringe.cleanup@dc.gov
Vi si t t he Di st ri ct ’ s new St abi l i zat i on Cent at 35 K St reet NE f or i mmedi at e 24/7 care i n a saf e envi ronment f or peopl e wi t h subst ance use di sorder. To l earn more, cal l Stabilization Center 202- 839- 3500 or vi si t dbh. dc. gov. or 1 - 888- 793- 4357. 1-888-7WEHELP
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Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia (DC)
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder that affects the hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.1 Sickle cell trait affects 1 million to 3 million Americans.2
People with SCD have abnormal hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can form red blood cells into a sickle, or crescent, shape. These irregularly shaped cells can get stuck in blood vessels, leading to different complications.
What causes SCD?
SCD is caused by a mutation in the gene that tells your body to make hemoglobin. The disease develops when one abnormal gene is inherited from both parents. If you inherit only one abnormal gene, you’ll have sickle cell trait, which is usually less serious.
Symptoms of SCD
The symptoms of SCD can vary
Understanding Sickle Cell Disease
from person to person and can change over time. Common symptoms include:3
• Anemia
• Fatigue or weakness
• Episodes of pain, known as pain crises
• Jaundice
• Swelling in the hands and feet
Complications of SCD can be severe and can also cause stroke and organ damage. Managing these complications means ensuring that you maintain ongoing medical care.
Tips for managing SCD
While there is currently no cure for SCD, several treatments can help manage symptoms and complications:
• Medications.
Some medications can help manage pain, prevent complications, and reduce the frequency of pain crises.
• Hydration.
Staying hydrated can help prevent sickle cell crises.
• Maintaining a healthy
lifestyle.
Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help manage SCD.
• Regular medical visits.
Regular checkups with a healthcare provider specializing in SCD are essential to monitor the disease and prevent complications.
SCD among ethnic groups
SCD disproportionately affects people of African, Hispanic, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern descent.4 It’s important for minority groups to understand SCD for several reasons. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms of SCD can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, which can improve health outcomes.
Within ethnic groups, knowledge of SCD is very important for family planning. If you and your partner have a family history of SCD, you can seek genetic counseling to understand the risk of passing the disease on to your children.
Sickle cell disease requires ongoing management and care. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and complications of SCD, you can take proactive steps to manage the disease and improve your quality of life.
Sources
1. “About Sickle Cell Disease,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/sickle-cell/ about/index.html
2. “Sickle Cell Trait,” American Society of Hematology, https://www.hematology.org/ education/patients/anemia/sickle-cell-trait#:~:text=Sickle%20 cell%20trait%20is%20an,10%20 percent%20of%20African%20 Americans.
3. “What Are the Symptoms of Sickle Cell Disease?,” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic. org/health/diseases/12100-sick -
le-cell-disease
4. “Sickle Cell Disease,” American Society of Hematology, https://www.hematology.org/ education/patients/anemia/sickle-cell-disease#:~:text=Sickle%20 cell%20disease%20is%20more,Asian%2C%20Indian%2C%20 and%20Mediterranean%20descent
All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model
Mindfulness for expecting moms: Techniques for reducing stress
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that can often come with feelings of stress and anxiety. Mindfulness, being fully present and engaged in the moment, can be a powerful tool for expecting moms to manage stress and promote overall well-being. Here are some effective mindfulness techniques to help reduce stress during pregnancy.
• Meditation. Set aside a few minutes each day for meditation. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath or a calming mantra. Meditation can help clear the mind and promotes a sense of peace.
• Mindful walking. Take a walk and pay attention to how your body feels during each step. Listen to the sounds around you and enjoy the feeling of the air on your skin. Mindful walking can be a great way to relax and enjoy the present moment.
• Journaling. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a relaxing way to process emotions and reduce stress. Take a few minutes each day to journal about your thoughts and experiences.
AmeriHealth Caritas DC enrollees who are expecting have access to resources and programs to support your journey. The Bright Start® maternity care program offers personalized care management, including access to an OB/GYN or midwife, breastfeeding support and childbirth classes, and educational resources tailored to your pregnancy needs. Visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com to download the Bright Start booklet.
AmeriHealth Caritas DC also provides emotional support services via text to help you navigate the emotional aspects of pregnancy. Enrollees can download the Headspace Care or MindRight apps from the Google Play or Apple App Store to text with an emotional support coach.
By adding mindfulness practices and utilizing available resources, you can create a more serene and balanced pregnancy experience. Remember, taking care of your mental well-being is as important as your physical health during this special time.
D.C. Teens Gather for the American Psychiatric Association’s Youth Summit
By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter
Dozens of teenagers from across the District took to Catholic University’s Pryzbyla Center for the second annual American Psychiatric Association (APA) Moore Equity in Mental Health Youth Summit on July 24. The one-day program was hosted in partnership with the Marion Barry Youth Leadership Institute, and included breakout sessions to educate youth on the impact of trauma and power of mindfulness, as well as methods of effective conflict resolution to incorporate into their daily life experiences.
“The inspiration behind this event is not only to bring visibility and awareness of this issue, but also to provide the young people with information, resources, and tools in terms of how to attain mental wellness,” said APA’s Chief Diversity and Health Equity and Deputy Medical Director Dr. Regina S. James. “We wanted this initiative to target D.C. and some of the unique issues that our young people are facing. We wanted to let them know that we’re here, our office is here in the D.C. area, and we are working with our [network of] psychiatrists and the patients that they serve, including them, to make sure they are aware, educated, and have resources to do better.”
The APA and partnering organizations, including the MedStar WISE Center and SchoolTalk DC, were compelled to hold the event to address the growing youth mental health crisis. Recently, the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Public Health Crisis of Firearm Violence in the United States details the effects of gun violence on youth, families and communities. In addition a report from Johns Hopkins’ Bloomberg School of Public Health, “Still Ringing the Alarm,” examines suicide prevention for Black youth.
“I think that there are a myriad of different things happening,” Barnett told The Informer. “There’s a huge identity crisis amongst these teens. They don’t know who to be. They have so many messages, they have so many people, influencers, from rappers, entertainers, people telling them
5 Mental Health Therapist and Life Coach Jay Barnett (pictured at a mental health event in May) delivered the keynote address during the second annual APA MOORE Equity in Mental Health Youth Summit. (WI File Photo)
to be this, be that, be this, be that. It’s overwhelming for their nervous system.”
As keynote speaker, therapist and life coach Dr. Jay Barnett engaged the young participants on a slew of topics ranging from self-esteem, best practices in handling conflict resolution, and even their level of discernment when navigating intimate relationships.
While the APA works to support the city’s youth, Barnett highlighted the importance of simultaneously supporting parents.
“It’s just a different world today. The stress that parents are having to bear is because they’re learning on the go. There is no manual on how to raise a Gen Z, there is no manual on how to manage the stress and their [child’s] stressors at the same time,” Barnett said. “So as much as we are giving support to the teens, the parents need just as much support. There has to be initiatives and programs that are connected with the community, and this is why I love working with the APA, because if it doesn’t start in the community, it can’t happen.”
• Boot Camp
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• Life Guard Training
• Hand Dancing
• Personal Trainer
• School Health and Fitness Educator
Youth Outreach Coordinator • After School Recreation Coordinator
Explore the complex and evolving world of health and wellness. This program offers students a foundation in various dimensions of health in the promotion of wellness. Students may choose to complete the Health Promotion track or the Wellness track. The Health promotion track prepares students to transfer into a 4-yr institution. The Wellness track prepares students for several industry certifications and careers. Students may choose to complete an internship with our industry partners. Get ready for rewarding careers in Health Promotion and Wellness.
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Health and Wellness Advocate • Community Health Educator • Health Program Analyst and Advocate • Wellness Resource Coordinator
• Health and Wellness Coordinator • Nutrition Services Coordinator
Vaccinations: The Essential School Supply for a Healthy Year
Byline: DC Health
As the end of summer approaches, families are busy preparing their children for the upcoming school year. Shopping for school supplies, new clothes, and lunchboxes is all part of the back-to-school routine. But there’s one important item that should top every family’s list: vaccinations. Just like notebooks and pencils, vaccines are essential for a successful and healthy school year.
Vaccinations shield children from diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and whooping cough. These illnesses are highly contagious and can spread rapidly in schools where children are in close contact. Imagine a classroom where one sick child can disrupt not just their learning but potentially the health and education of their entire class. By vaccinating children, parents significantly reduce the risk of these illnesses, helping their kids stay healthy and ensuring that their education is
uninterrupted.
But vaccinations are not just about individual health – they play a crucial role in protecting our community. When most people are vaccinated, it helps stop the spread of diseases. This is vital for individuals who cannot get vaccinated, such as babies who are too young or people with certain health conditions. When communities get vaccinated, it created a protective barrier that keeps everyone safer, making our schools and neighborhoods healthier places to live and learn.
School environments are particularly susceptible to the spread of infectious diseases due to the high number of children in close quarters. Unvaccinated children are at higher risk of contracting and transmitting diseases, leading to outbreaks that can disrupt the educational process and place the entire community at risk. Ensuring children are vaccinated before the start of the school year helps maintain a safe and healthy learning environment, benefiting everyone.
Vaccinations also have a broader societal impact. They reduce the number of people who get sick, meaning fewer hospitalizations, less time lost from work for parents, and lower medical costs. By preventing disease, vaccines contribute to a better quality of life and economic stability for families and communities. This is a win-win situation – healthy kids, happy families, and a thriving community.
tions. Vaccines undergo rigorous testing and monitoring to ensure their safety and effectiveness, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks of potential side effects, which are typically mild and temporary.
As we prepare for the upcoming school year, let’s remember the important role that vaccinations play in protecting our children and communities. By ensuring that children are vaccinated, we are not only safeguarding their health but also contributing to a healthier, more resilient society. Vaccines are a shared responsibility, and together we can create a safer environment for everyone. Let’s make this school year not just about learning but about thriving – starting with a strong, healthy foundation.
It’s important for families to follow the vaccination schedule recommended by the CDC. This schedule is designed to provide immunity at the earliest and most effective times, ensuring that children are protected when they are most vulnerable. Pediatricians and healthcare providers are valuable allies in this effort, educating families about the importance of vaccines and addressing any concerns they may have.
Recently, vaccine misinformation has led some families to question the safety and efficacy of vaccines. When you rely on credible sources of information, such as from doctors, nurses, and other medical providers, you can make informed decisions about vaccina-
Vaccinations shield children from diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and whooping cough. These illnesses are highly contagious and can spread rapidly in schools where children are in close contact.
So, as you tick off items on your back-to-school list, don’t forget to add vaccinations. It’s a small step that makes a big difference, ensuring your child’s health and well-being of everyone around them. Here’s to a safe, healthy, and successful school year for all!
For More Information visit https://dchealth.dc.gov/page/immunizations
The Art of Practicing Self-Care
By Stacey Billups, LMSW African American Wellness Project
Practicing self-care while caring for others is not just a personal choice; it’s a necessity. Many of us today find ourselves in the role of caregivers, whether for our elderly parents, children, extended family members, or even our colleagues. This constant juggling of responsibilities can lead to stress, burnout, and significant health and wellness concerns. But what exactly is the difference between stress and burnout? And how can we creatively address our own needs while caring for others?
Stress vs. Burnout
Stress: Stress is a physical and psy-
chological response to internal and external factors that make us feel overwhelmed. Some common symptoms of stress include:
• Trouble concentrating
• Headaches
• Anxiety
• Anger
• Stomach issues
• Fatigue
• Teeth grinding
• Apathy
• Poor relationships
• Difficulty concentrating If these symptoms are not addressed, they can lead to more significant health problems or an increased likelihood of burnout.
Burnout: Burnout is the state of
physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion where we have no more to give. It can be caused by an overly stressful environment, a perception of a lack of control, insufficient sleep, too many roles and responsibilities, and personality factors such as perfectionism, overachievement, and rigidity.
Approaching Self-Care
To avoid burnout and other symptoms of stress, the African American Wellness Project a national nonprofit that works to address health disparities in the African American community, recommends incorporating self-care into your health regimen.
The Oxford Dictionary defines self-care as the practice of acting to
“preserve or improve one’s health, well-being, and happiness,” particularly during periods of stress. The goal of self-care should be two-fold:
1. Limit adverse outcomes: Guard against, cope with, or manage stress and its consequences. Creating a self-care plan that addresses the Five Life Pillars—physical, relational, emotional, psychological, and spiritual—is essential.
2. Promote positive outcomes: Maintain and enhance well-being and overall functioning. For instance, a friend of mine, also a caregiver, found that starting her day with a short walk and a moment of gratitude significantly improved her ability to manage stress and maintain her well-being amidst her demanding role.
Creating
a Self-Care Plan
Start small:
Begin with 1-3 minutes of breathwork, imagery, or meditation.
Identify one goal in each of the Five Life Pillars:
It can be helpful to approach creating a self-care plan around five significant areas of life, sometimes referred to as the Five Life Pillars:
• Physical: Take care of your health through exercise, sleep, and nutrition.
• Relational: Engage in social networking and build solid relationships.
• Emotional: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or breathwork, and replace negative coping strategies such as drinking or excessive retail therapy.
• Psychological: Engage your mind in creativity, games, puzzles, etc.
• Spiritual: Connect with nature, practice faith-based activities, or engage in prayer or meditation.
Identify barriers: Consider the possible challenges you may face when you begin your self-care journey. Thinking about potential obstacles in advance can help you avoid pitfalls.
Track your progress: Make time to write down your progress. You can use your phone’s calendar to jot down notes.
Re-assess and reflect: Adjust your plan as needed. If you struggle to stick with your self-care plan, you may need to simplify it or change your approach to one of your goals. Consistency is key, so it’s essential to have doable practices in your plan.
Prioritize: It can be easy to disregard your plan when the world’s demands are overwhelming you. However, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care. If you don’t prioritize yourself, you cannot show up fully for others. Self-care is an act of kindness to yourself and those you care for.
Practice self-compassion: In contrast to harsh self-criticism, which undermines motivation by seeing ourselves as the problem, self-compassion practices encourage feelings of safety and nurturing. They increase oxytocin and opiates (feel-good hormones), reducing stress and fostering better mental health. So, practice being kind to yourself; it’s literally good for your health!
Connect With Us
Stay updated on AAWP’s latest initiatives and resources by following us on social media:
• Facebook: @AfricanAmericanWellnessProject
• Twitter: @TheAAWP
• Instagram: @ AfricanAmericanWellnessProject
• YouTube: @AfricanAmericanWellnessProject
For more health resources, visit our website at aawellnessproject.org.
5 (Courtesy Photo)
Black Men’s Health: A Call to Action for Awareness and Improvement
By George Woods, MD L.F.A.P.A., African American Wellness Project
Black men in the United States face significant health disparities compared to other racial and ethnic groups. These disparities are not only a reflection of individual health behaviors but are deeply rooted in systemic issues such as racial discrimination, socioeconomic challenges, and unequal access to healthcare services. Addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach that includes raising awareness, promoting preventive care, and advocating for policy changes.
The African American Wellness Project (AAWP) a national nonprofit that works to address health disparities in the African American community, believes that improving Black men’s health is a critical public health priority. By addressing the systemic and socioeconomic factors that contribute to health disparities, promoting preventive care, and advocating for policy changes, we can work towards health equity. Health bloggers and advocates play a vital role in raising awareness and driving the conversation forward. Together, we can create a healthier future for Black men and their communities.
Health Disparities and Leading Causes of Death
Black men have a life expectancy of 66.7 years, which is significantly lower than the 73.7 years for non-Hispanic white men (Office of Minority Health). This discrepancy is driven by higher rates of chronic diseases and other health conditions. The leading causes of death among Black men include heart disease, cancer, unintentional injuries, homicide, and stroke (CDC).
Heart disease is the leading cause of death, accounting for 23.7% of deaths among Black men (Office of Minority Health). This is followed by cancer at 20.2% and unintentional injuries at 7.9%.
Notably, homicide is a major cause of death for younger Black men, particularly those aged 15 to 44, highlighting the impact of violence on this demographic(Visible and Invisible T…) (CDC).
Chronic Health Conditions
Black men are disproportionately affected by several chronic health conditions. For instance, they have higher rates of hypertension, with 56.8% of Black men aged 20 and older affected (CDC). Obesity is also prevalent, with 44% of Black men considered overweight and 37.5% classified as obese(African American Health…). These conditions contribute to the higher incidence of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke in this population.
Prostate cancer and diabetes are other significant health issues. Black men are more likely to develop and die from prostate cancer than men of other races. Additionally, the incidence of diabetes is higher, which can lead to complications such as kidney disease and lower limb amputations (CDC)
Mental Health and Substance Use
Mental health is a critical but often overlooked aspect of Black men’s health. The stigma surrounding mental health, along with barriers to accessing mental health services, contributes to low treatment rates. Only 26.4% of Black and Hispanic men with daily feelings of anxiety or depression seek mental health services, compared to 45.4% of non-Hispanic white men (Office of Minority Health).
Substance use is another area of concern. Black men are more likely to experience substance use disorders, which are often compounded by socioeconomic factors and the criminal justice system’s impact on their lives.
Socioeconomic and Systemic Barriers
Socioeconomic factors such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to quality healthcare services significantly impact Black men’s health. Historical and ongoing discrimination and systemic racism exacerbate these challenges. For example, the legacy of the Tuskegee syphilis experiment and other unethical medical practices has led to a deep mistrust of the healthcare system among Black communities (CDC)
Access to healthcare is another critical issue. Black men are less likely to have health insurance
and more likely to experience barriers to receiving timely and effective medical care. This lack of access contributes to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes (CDC)
Promising Interventions and Community Initiatives
Addressing these health disparities requires targeted interventions and community engagement. Community-based programs that promote preventive care, healthy lifestyles, and mental health awareness can make a significant difference. For instance, initiatives that provide free or low-cost health screenings, educational workshops, and support groups can help improve health outcomes.
Policy advocacy is also essential. Efforts to expand healthcare access, improve the quality of care, and address social determinants of health are crucial. Policymakers must work to eliminate barriers to
care and ensure that all individuals, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, can achieve optimal health.
Connect With the African American Wellness Project
Stay updated on AAWP’s latest initiatives and resources by following us on social media:
• Facebook: @AfricanAmericanWellnessProject
• Twitter: @TheAAWP
• Instagram: @ AfricanAmericanWellnessProject
• YouTube: @AfricanAmericanWellnessProject
For more health resources, visit our website at aawellnessproject.org.
George Woods, MD, L.F.A.P.A is the Chief Scientific Officer of Crestwood Behavioral Health, Inc.”
5 (Courtesy Photo)
MedStar Family Choice District of Columbia
We got you! Live well, live long!
MedStar Family Choice District of Columbia is committed to supporting you in living a healthy life so you can feel your best. This information will help you understand more about well-child visits.
What is a well-child visit?
Well-child visits are preventive checkups performed by your child’s doctor near your child’s birthday or any time in the year. During these visits, your child’s doctor or healthcare provider can look for potential health issues and treat them before your child gets sick. This includes providing vaccines that are necessary for your child to attend school.
Keep your child safe with vaccines; they are safe, and they work
They have been saving children’s lives for many years. Altogether, vaccines can prevent 16 different types of disease. Children get vaccines at well-child visits, so it is important to make sure that your child goes to every visit their doctor recommends. Getting vaccines at the right time can help keep your child from becoming very sick. Most vaccines are given by injections (shots). Talk to your child’s doctor or healthcare provider about what shots they need at the following ages:
• Birth • 6 months • 4–6 years
• 1–2 months • 12–18 months • 11–12 years
• 4 months • 2–3 years •13–18 years
Please bring a copy of the Universal Health Certificate to all well-child visits, lead screenings, and COVID- 19 vaccinations. The Universal Health Certificate is available online at DCHealth.DC.gov/Service/School- HealthServices-Program.
Kids going back to school?
We got you.
From June 1 to September 30, 2024, kids ages 3–11 and students ages 12–20 can receive a back-to-school swag backpack and up to $50 in gift card rewards for completing a well-child visit or dental screening.
Schedule your child’s yearly appointments today, so they are healthy and ready to learn.
Be smart. Start Smart. Scan the QR code below to find out more.
Safe Practices For A Healthy School Year: Preparing Children to Protect Their Health
By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter
While shopping for supplies and fall clothes are often top priorities for families this time of year, students should also be equipped with tools to combat the spread of viruses and potential diseases.
Check out a few preventative measures to offer students the best line of defense against any illnesses this school year.
Hand Hygiene
Keeping hands clean by washing them and using hand sanitizer are one of the most critical methods to prevent the transmission of infectious bacteria and pathogens.
While washing hands well with soap and warm water for 20 seconds (or humming the birthday song) is ideal, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and using hand sanitizer when hand-washing is unavailable is also a good tool, combining the two can be great to keep healthy.
Studies have shown that students who utilize hand sanitizer after washing their hands with soap and water show lower risk of absenteeism due to gastroenteritis in comparison to those students who followed the standard handwashing procedure, according to the CDC report “Prevention and Control of Respiratory and Gastrointestinal Infections in Kindergarten through Grade 12 (K-12) Schools.”
Respiratory Etiquette: Covering Your Mouth and Nose
While children are in close spaces within their classrooms, it is important they cover their noses and mouths while sneezing or coughing.
The CDC recommends using a tissue to cover one’s mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing.
Further, students should not remain in the classroom and visit a staff nurse if the symptoms persist.
— Delica M., Deanwood
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