Browsing: Health

     Heart conditions seldom make their presence known with loud warnings or obvious signals. Often, it starts in a hushed manner–subtle changes in breathing, energy, or pace that can easily go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These first warning signs, though easy to miss, might be the body’s first subtle indicators that something isn’t quite right. Let’s explore how heart conditions can develop unnoticed, why early detection is critical, how recognizing even the slightest signs can mean the difference between preventing a crisis and experiencing one, and lifestyle adjustments that can reduce risk.

   Heart health is often overlooked until warning signs appear. According to the National Institutes of Health, atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common heart rhythm disorder, affecting about 1 in 22 Americans and serving as a leading cause of stroke.

     We have cared for families, built communities, powered movements, and carried entire systems on our backs, often while navigating health outcomes that were worse than everyone else’s, with fewer answers as to why. Too often, when it comes to medical research, Black women have been discussed, compared, or referenced, but not meaningfully included.

Florida A&M University’s (FAMU) School of Nursing (SON) is advancing healthcare delivery across the state and the nation with the latest graduation of 26 Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) students—the largest cohort in recent program history. The graduating class includes 13 Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners (WHNP) and 13 Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioners (AGPCNP), reflecting the school’s strategic focus on workforce areas experiencing critical shortages.

       It’s a problem with not nearly enough attention. Prostate cancer hits men hard all over the world—it’s one of the biggest threats out there. But lately, something very concerning has been showing up in the numbers: Black men are getting hit with this diagnosis at younger ages than ever, and the stats are brutal and clear as day.

        Research shows that Blacks may develop multiple sclerosis more often than previously thought. Additionally, the symptoms of the disease can progress more quickly or have a higher severity. Still, there are a few general principles that hold true when it comes to the stages of the disease. If you know what to expect with each stage, you’ll be able to identify the difference between when your multiple sclerosis is progressing and when your symptoms need to be managed more effectively.

       Chances are, your New Year’s resolutions include things like “get back in the gym” or “eat healthier.” But what about “schedule a diabetes screening” or “get up to date on my routine vaccinations”? If those didn’t make the list, don’t worry. You’re not alone, and we’ve got you covered.