Most Recent Blog Posts

• Sheding New Light on Bipolar D Sheding New Light on Bipolar Disorder

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    Editor's Note: Dr. Janet Taylor sets the record straight and tackles some of the popular misconceptions of bipolar disease in an article for Parade magazine. Read it here if you missed it.
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  • 1 month ago
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• The Link Between Chronic Racis The Link Between Chronic Racism & Pre-Term Births

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    A few days ago, the March of Dimes issued a report card for the United States preterm (babies born before 37 weeks) birth rate. The US got a “D”. More than 540,000 babies are born too early. According to the Institute of Medicine, preterm births and complications (breathing problems, cerebral palsy, mental retardation) account for health care expenses in excess of 26 billion dollars /year.
    
    African-American women at every socio-economic level have higher rates of pre-term birth and infant mortality. Incredibly, these rates exceed those of white women who have not even finished high school and/or Black women who immigrated to the US from other countries. For example, infant mortality in white women with a college degree or higher is 4 per 1000, while for similarly educated African-American women, the rate is 12 per 1000 births. Infant mortality is too high in both of these groups. It is shameful that the US infant mortality rate is one of the highest in the industrialized world.
    
    Why has this disparity persisted in African-American women?
    
    The answer may surprise you, but probably not.
    
    Being black in America is bad for a woman’s health. Why? Chronic Racism over the lifetime of African-American women affects their birth outcomes. Not just living in poverty, the frequency of prenatal visits (still important), level of education or income. In the acclaimed documentary, Unnatural Causes, a critical examination of health care disparities in the US, Dr. Richard Davis states, “there’s something about growing up as a Black female in the United States that’s not good for your childbearing health”.
    
    True words.
    
    Researchers have found physiologic pathways may increase premature risk. One way is related to a hyperactivation of the neuroendocrine system (related to pregnancy) and the second is an immune/inflammatory pathway. Maternal stress increases both. The exposure of stress to chronic racism has been listed as a very possible and plausible risk factor in African-American women.
    
    Also, there is another notion that may explain worse outcomes. The ‘Weathering” hypothesis was first described by Dr. Arlene Geronimus to explain how the poor health consequences and potential health deterioration that African-American Women experience is secondary to the cumulative impact of repeated experiences with social or economic adversity or political marginalization. Dr. Camara Jones also seen on the documentary says that the chronic stress of racism is like “gunning the engine of a car, never letting up.” The bottom line…we cannot continue to explain away health care disparities because of socio-economic status or poverty.
    
    Historically, the medical community has downplayed the long-term medical effects of chronic racism, because of its subjective nature and an inability to accurately measure it’s occurrence. Since the 1990’s the relationship between maternal chronic stress and pregnancy outcomes have been studied with documented associations. Advances in stress markers and the ability to measure them can provide health care providers concrete assessments to address and measure stress circumstances in expectant African-American women.
    
    Clearly, African-American women can’t go back in time to eliminate past exposures to racism or perceived racism. Thankfully, every woman exposed to chronic stress does not deliver a preterm infant.
    
    If you are pregnant, take steps now to monitor stress in your life. Establish the causes of the stressors and focus on healthy coping responses. Know what situations are in your control what situations are out of your control. Eliminate unhealthy relationships, people or ideas that do not make you better. Learn to say No and mean it. We need healthy mothers and healthy families.
    
    African-American women can ‘weather’ chronic stress from racism, by supporting each other, understanding where our strength comes from and utilizing faith and spirituality by honoring our health and ourselves.

    Editor's Note: This blog was also posted on thegrio.com.

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  • 3 months ago
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• Stressed? Overwhelmed? Pick Up Stressed? Overwhelmed? Pick Up the Phone, Not a Weapon

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    Enough already. This senseless, horrific, deliberate violence against innocent citizens and soldiers has got to stop. The rampage in Texas by an Army Psychiatrist, a 'healer' no less, is a reminder of how dangerous the combination of stress, fear, and frustration can express itself by individuals who want to externally make others feel their pain.

    In Fort Hood, Texas, our nation's bravest young men and women were simply doing their jobs. Selflessly, they were waiting to get medically cleared in preparation for active duty. One hundred rounds later, thirteen were dead and 31 wounded. The motive of the mass shooting is unclear. Was he depressed, suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, psychotic, or carrying out religious extremism? These are all questions that will be answered in the days and weeks to come.

    One day later, a worker in Orlando, Florida took a gun into his former place of employment and unloaded on innocent workers. He was reportedly upset over losing his job many months ago and subsequently having to file for bankruptcy. His response was another example of a troubling pattern emerging in response to situations of extreme emotional duress.

    What can we learn from these two terrifying incidents?

    Many folks in this great nation report being more stressed and worried than last year. Most folks don't hurt innocent people as they are hurting themselves. Instead they huddle for support, they pray, they help others, and re-evaluate their priorities, values and beliefs. Thank goodness.

    Symptoms of  stress can include anxiety, heart palpitations, nausea, dizziness, headache,insomnia, irritability, and changes in appetite among others. It is not unusual to feel stressed over various events in your life. How you cope with stress can be detrimental. For example, some people cope by drinking alcohol or using drugs, over-eating, risky behavior, or by socially isolating. Unhealthy coping responses can worsen situations.

    Violence is never an answer.

    Deal with your feelings by talking to a health professional. If you feel overwhelmed and desperate, call 911 and get assistance. Pay attention to how you are feeling, your ability to cope, and your thoughts. Any thoughts of hurting yourself or anyone else is a medical and psychiatric emergency. Call the police and get help.

    We have to stop this pattern of internal angst ballooning into external terror for innocent citizens. They don't deserve it.

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  • 3 months ago
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• Choose the Most Inspiring Bipo Choose the Most Inspiring Bipolar Depression Success Story

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    What do you consider a success story? For those people trying to manage bipolar depression, the depressive phase of bipolar disorder, “success” can be measured in simple ways: from being able to maintain relationships with family and friends, to finishing up a degree, to feeling well enough to get out of bed. For some, the ultimate success is being able to share that story, and be a role model for others. This has been made possible through the SPEAK and Be Heard...Living With Bipolar Depression campaign. Now you have the opportunity to support these role models, too, by participating in the campaign and helping to choose the most inspirational story of success!

    Earlier this year, the campaign accepted stories from bipolar depression patients and caregivers of patients who are successfully managing their symptoms. Now I encourage you to visit www.SpeakAboutBipolarDepression.com from August 17 through August 21, 2009, to choose the story that most inspires you. The person selected will be invited to SPEAK Out on Capitol Hill and share his/her success story at the 2009 PRISM Awards Capitol Hill Showcase, which will be held on September 15, 2009 in Washington, DC.

    The PRISM Awards, presented by the Entertainment Industries Council Inc. (EIC) in collaboration with FX Network, honor the accurate depiction of mental health issues, substance abuse, treatment, and recovery in television, movies, music, and other forms of entertainment.

    The SPEAK and Be Heard… Living With Bipolar Depression campaign, which I first wrote about in June, is sponsored by AstraZeneca, and designed to raise awareness about mental illness, inspire hope, show the importance of seeking an accurate diagnosis, and developing an appropriate treatment plan with a health care provider to successfully manage bipolar depression.

    I encourage you to visit www.SpeakAboutBipolarDepression.com to learn more about the campaign and to help choose the patient advocate who will attend the 2009 PRISM Awards Capitol Hill Showcase. Together, we can bring greater awareness to this disease and help share the stories of those individuals that are successfully managing bipolar depression.

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  • 6 months ago
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• Farewell, Farrah and Michael: Farewell, Farrah and Michael: How Celebrities Impact Our Lives

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    Yesterday while at work I got an e-mail news alert that Farrah Fawcett had bravely succumbed to cancer. I took a quiet pause and then gently told a colleague (because you really don't know who's a fan).
    
    Farrah's health struggles have been well documented and, frankly, not unexpected. Still, rarely are you prepared to deal with death. The announcement of her passing made me think about the attachment that we have to celebrities and our ability to sometimes over-identify with their life comings and goings to the point where we truly can feel their pain. That pain, unfortunately, also includes grief.
    
    Later that afternoon while walking down 57th Street in Manhattan, my daughter called me (rare in these text-message days) and I immediately wondered what was wrong. When she told me Michael Jackson had died, I was speechless. I poked my head into a restaurant, where his death was confirmed on TV by a national news network. It truly was a New York moment, as everyone simultaneously exhaled and said, 'I loved Michael.'
    
    The murmur of favorite stories and songs began spewing out like hot steam from a tea kettle. For a few minutes, we were all one in sadness and shock listening to 'Got To Be There' and ' I Want You Back.' I actually felt better -- a little less sad -- and smiled to myself thinking of how much I too love listening to Michael Jackson’s music. One distinct memory I have is watching his video 'Thriller' over and over. Once when I was much younger, I was actually backstage at a Jackson concert and caught a fleeting glimpse of his apple green shirt and 'fro. My heart was beating so fast, but I actually never saw him. Despite our lack of a personal meeting, he was my first crush --evidenced by photos from Tiger Beat and Right On magazine that covered my bedroom. However, as he grew up, he changed…I changed…and life moved on.
    
    Familiarity with a face and seemingly predictable personality patterns can make you feel like you really know someone. Whether it's a Charlie's Angel or an incredibly gifted musical performer. The personal meanings you attach to other people’s lives come from your own memories. Music is a powerful stirrer of emotions and memories. Visual images and theme songs can take you right back to childhood, for instance, when life was good simply eating an after school snack while sitting in front of the television.
    
    Today, our grief comes from losing what feels like old, old friends. Most of us have dealt with loss in our lives and understand how loss can impact life in so many ways. You don't have to know someone personally to have an attachment. All you need are memories, emotional connectedness, and that pang in your chest tapping into your heartfelt emotions.
    
    Our pain, like grief, can be a good thing. It reminds us all of our humanity and the importance of cherishing moments, memories, and, yes, old friends that we will miss. Farewell, Farrah and Michael. Thank you for helping us add meaning to the memories.

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  • 8 months ago
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• Happy Father's Day: Now Let's Happy Father's Day: Now Let's Talk About Health Screening

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    In honor of our brothers, uncles, sons, dads and other great men who are fathers, let's encourage an out of the box conversation with them.

    The talk would go something like this, ' ____, I love you, and because I want you around, we need to talk. When was your last health check-up or screening?' Whaddya think? Will it go over? I think so. To guide you, here are some suggestions for screenings that are arranged by age group. Feel free to use these as a guideline or create your own. Just get the conversation going. Talk about...

    20's-Testicular Cancer Testicular cancer, although rare is a leading killer of young men between 20 and 34 from a cancer-related death. It typically presents as a painless lump or mass, scrotal enlargement or a sensation of abdominal heaviness. Risk factors are being a young age, having a history of undescended testes, and is more common in white males. Ask your doctor to teach you how to perform a self-exam.

    30's-Skin Cancer Exposure to midday sun, and poor UV protection are risks factors for melanoma. Melanomas are twenty times more common in whites than blacks and four times more common in whites than Hispanics. Still, everyone is at risk. Wearing sunscreen daily and clothes that protect UV rays can help prevent skin cancer. Be aware of moles that have irregular borders or change their shape or color.

    40's-Prostate Cancer Being a black male is associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer. Other risk factors are increased alcohol usage, a diet that is high in fats and a family history of prostate cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men. Talk to your health care provider about screening tests and your individual risks in your forties.

    50's- Colon Cancer Eighty percent of colon cancer comes from polyps. These polyps can be seen and treated with a colonoscopy. Individuals with a first-degree relative who developed colon cancer prior to age 60 may be at an increased risk for colon cancer. It is very important that you discuss your risk factors and what age you should have your first colonoscopy. Some may recommend a colonoscopy prior to age 50.

    60's-Bladder Cancer Bladder cancer is two to three times more common in men than women. It is unusual to develop before the age of 50. Good screening involves regular doctor's appointments, and routine urine tests and a bladder tumor antigen. Smoking cigarettes increases the risk of bladder cancer.

    70's-Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Risk factors are being older than 65 and male, smoking, hypertension, increased cholesterol and diabetes. Males have an increased risk. An abdominal ultrasound is a good screening tool, and in some cases a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may be indicated.

    80's- Major Depression Getting depressed is not a normal part of aging. It is important to identify and treat older men who are depressed. Men, 85 and older have a higher risk of suicide than the general population. Two simple questions can serve as a screening tool. They are asking these questions, (1) under the past two weeks, have your felt down, depressed to hopeless, (2) under the past tow weeks, have you little interest in doing things that bring you pleasure.

    So, under your loving signature, add a screening tip as part of your father's day wishes.

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  • 8 months ago
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• Living With Bipolar Depression Living With Bipolar Depression? Share Your Stories of Success

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    Have you ever thought about how you define success? Success can mean different things to different people, and this is especially true for people living with bipolar depression because the disease affects each person differently.

    For people successfully managing the depressive episodes of bipolar disorder or caring for someone that is, success can be measured in many different ways. For some, being able to maintain relationships with family and friends is a sign of success. For others, finishing a college degree or just feeling well enough to get out of bed may also be a measure of success. The point is, each person with bipolar depression may take a different path to achieve his/her measure of success.

    As a physician who works with people living with bipolar disorder, I think it's important that people with bipolar depression know that their journey to successfully managing the disease may be different from the next person's, which is why I'm excited to be involved with a new campaign: SPEAK and Be Heard... Living With Bipolar Depression.

    The campaign, sponsored by AstraZeneca, is designed to raise awareness about mental illness, inspire hope, show the importance of seeking an accurate diagnosis, and developing an appropriate treatment plan with a health care provider to successfully manage bipolar disorder. Through this program, patients and caregivers can tell others about the struggles they have overcome or the challenges their loved ones faced before adopting an appropriate treatment plan and learning to successfully manage symptoms.

    People with bipolar depression and caregivers of loved ones diagnosed with bipolar depression can log onto http://www.speakaboutbipolardepression.com to submit their stories. Then, they may have the opportunity to travel to New York City in the fall to act as a role model and further share their story with media and the mental health advocacy community. Submissions are being accepted until Wednesday, June 24, 2009.

    I encourage all patients and their caregivers to visit http://www.speakaboutbipolardepression.com to learn more about the campaign and how they can SPEAK out and share their success stories to help others living with the disease. Together, we can bring greater awareness to this disease and help share the stories of those individuals that are successfully managing it.

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  • 8 months ago
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• Lions and Tigers and Swine Flu Lions and Tigers and Swine Flu...Oh My!

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    Swine flu is all that anyone with electricity is talking about. I have to admit, the unsettling images of  people wearing masks and printed 'we're closed' signs in front of schools and businesses combine to create low-level anxiety. On top of that, reports of deaths from the flu (go figure) really can make that sinking feeling in your stomach feel like the Grand Canyon. The news reports and snatches of random conversation, make you ask yourself, 'Should I be worried?'
    
    Let's look at the facts. Influenza kills 36,000 Americans every year. Last year over 200,000 people were hospitalized for complications from the flu. Approximately 5-20% of the population gets the 'flu' every year. Swine flu is thought to come from a mutation of a pig virus and human virus. It's spread through respiratory droplets -- like coughing and sneezing -- and is passed along hand to hand or by coming into contact with an infected person. There has been one recent death in the U.S., and possibly more to come. The virus is Swine Influenza A (H1N1) and can be treated with antiviral drugs like osetamivir and zanamivir (started within 48 hours of symptom onset).
    
    Use common sense by washing your hands frequently, cough into your elbow (not your hands), and stay home if you feel ill. If you find yourself overly concerned or making yourself sick with worry (and, frankly, paranoia) yet you have absolutely no symptoms, try these tips:
    
    1.  Limit your network or newspaper coverage about the pandemic. Update yourself once or twice daily by going to a reliable source like www.cdc.gov.
    
    2.  Focus on what's under your control.
    
    3.  Maintain healthy habits. Exercise regularly and be mindful of  what you eat. Try to eat whole grains and fresh fruits.
    
    4.  Breathe. Take ten deep breaths regularly through your nose with your mouth closed. Find a deep center of calm within.
    
    5.  Avoid feeling panicky by having a plan. Educate yourself on the symptoms of swine flu, keep your doctor's number handy, and remember that this is a treatable illness. However, if you are have a young child,  are pregnant, or have an existing condition that makes you immunocompromised, you should check in with your doctor at the first sign of flu symptoms because your risk is higher.

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  • 10 months ago
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• Lessons from Farrah's Brave Ba Lessons from Farrah's Brave Battle

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    Farrah Fawcett, the television actress bravely dealing with anal cancer, now has a new cancer-related challenge: While previous reports had indicated that she was 'stable' and gearing up for a reality TV show to document her life and medical treatment experience, she now reportedly has been re-hospitalized from a complication from a routine treatment. There are also indications that her cancer has spread to the liver. No matter the news, I am sure that Ms. Fawcett will continue her courageous and determined fight.
     
    Also, I don't know how many of you saw the recent reports about Jade Goody, the British reality TV star who tragically died after a very public battle with cervical cancer. In her final month she managed to get married and say very meaningful and poignant goodbyes to her young sons while under a constant media glare.
     
    The public nature of Ms. Fawcett's and Ms. Goody's medical struggles serve as a reminder that cancer does not care about celebrity status and that the 'cancer experience' has commonalities we can all relate to. When cancer strikes an individual, it fans out to families, friends, and even social media communities. There is nothing entertaining or easy about being a patient or a caregiver for a loved one battling with cancer. That being said, perhaps there can still be a silver lining of hope -- even after devastating news -- and the will to live life to the fullest.
     
    If you have been diagnosed with cancer, the first step is to deal with the uncertainty around the diagnosis, its staging, and/or treatment. Denial can be a powerful defense against distressing events, but you need relevant information to help guide important decisions. Stay engaged and be prepared to ask the hard questions to your healthcare provider and family members. Secondly, gather friends and family just for the heck of it. Celebrate your life to the fullest every day -- and in a way that makes you feel wonderful and allows you to share your stories and your values. Next, assemble your S-Team ('S' for support). A positive support system can be a tremendous mental boost. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Let your faith or beliefs in a higher power (if that applies to you) order your steps in your quest for healthy attitudes. Lastly, think positively. Recognize negative or fearful thoughts, but don't allow yourself to dwell on them. Reframe your thinking by asking yourself, 'Okay, what's another way to look at this.' 
     
    Examples of hope and strength can come from surprising sources. I see them in the remarkable ways Ms. Fawcett is continuing to live and savor her life.
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  • 10 months ago
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• Eye-Q Eye-Q

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    When was the last time that you had bought a new pair of cool sunglasses? Okay, how about the last time you talked to your healthcare provider about your vision, and how to protect and keep your eyes healthy? Thought so. If you had been at the recent Transitions Golf Tourney at the lovely Innisbrook Resort and Spa in Palm Harbour, Florida last month then your Eye-Q would be up. The weekend focus was highlighting superior athletes who rely on their peripheral vision and hand-eye coordination for a great game. However, because of the commitment to healthy eyes, Transitions Eyecare made sure that everyone attending left more informed about their vision and good eye heatlh.
    
    Eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration account for blindness in millions of Americans. Most people rate their eyesight as extremely important to their quality of living, yet almost 10% don't realize that their are no early warning signs of glaucoma or cataracts. The same preventable behaviors like smoking , obesity, a lack of regular exercise, poor nutrition and high uv exposure that contributes to chronic medical conditions like hypertension, heart disease, cancers and diabetes also cause eye disease.
    
    Hispanics and African-Americans continue to lead Americans in health care disparities related to eye-diseases. Raise your Eye-Q by becoming aware of your individual and family risk factors for eye-disease. Know your family history. Request that your pupils are dilated and blood vessels examined on eye visits. Have yearly eye exams. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays. Exposure to high uv light increase your risk for cataracts. Eat a diet that is rich in antioxidants with supplements as needed. Manage your weight with regular exercise. Stop smoking cigarettes, and know your bp, cholesterol and bmi numbers.
    
    Make eye health a part of your total health. Now is the time!
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  • 10 months ago
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• Smoke Signals: Is the Tobacco Smoke Signals: Is the Tobacco Tax Enough?

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    On April 1 -- and this is no joke -- the per-pack tax on cigarettes jumps from 39 cents to $1.01. President Barack Obama recently signed an initiative that will use the estimated $33 billion dollars raised over the next four years from this increase to pay for the expansion of health insurance. Earmarking the tobacco tax for such a critical need makes it very difficult for anyone -- smoker or non-smoker -- to quibble with the new policy. But is it enough?

    In the United States, cigarette smoking kills more people than AIDS, alcohol, cocaine, heroin, homicide, suicide, car crashes, and fires...combined. The economic burden to our country approximates almost $140 billion dollars annually. Cigarette smoking is a preventable cause of many chronic diseases that are straining our health system. If you add in the harm to non-smokers from exposure to second- and even thirdhand smoke, then the health and economic impact of tobacco is even more far reaching.

    Historical economic analysis has shown that tobacco-control polices work by regulation (laws) and finance (taxation). It is expected that the increased prices will help deter young people from smoking and may contribute to an overall decrease of at least six or seven percent among this population. Great! If young men and women are forced to quit early, they may lose their desire for nicotine sticks altogether. But for poor people who choose to smoke, the extra money that they will now spend for cigarettes could be significant and will represent a bigger portion of their total income. That means less money for groceries and rent. Don't get me wrong, I am not trying to rally any sympathy for smokers, but poor smokers who cannot and don't quit despite this stark financial reality are at risk for not only worsening their health but also emptying their modest piggy banks.

    Indeed, cigarette smoking is an awful, dirty habit. And there's no question that the tax increase will work as intended and force some smokers to quit. Lives will be saved in the process, as smoking cessation has been shown to cut the risk of heart attack in half and to reduce strokes by two-thirds. Significant stuff. My concern is the reality that you can't legislate motivation and self-care. If this tax hits the young and the poor the hardest -- and it will -- what else can we do to help them develop a stronger health IQ within their own networks? How can we help instill a lasting sense of health and well-being? How can we reach them with continued messages of hope and health engagement? The young and poor are more likely to be uninsured or underinsured, and these individuals may not have access to resources like quit lines or nicotine-substitute therapy under the guidance of a professional health care provider. How do we compensate for this disparity and lack of resources?

    Being healthy is more than the absence of disease or illness. By focusing on just one aspect of what contributes to smoking cessation (cost), we may be misreading the big picture.

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  • 10 months ago
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• ARRA and Your Health ARRA and Your Health

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    Okay , I admit it, although I consider myself relatively intelligent and certainly literate, understanding the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act ( or stimulus bill) was a challenge. So I decided to break it down and focus on what aspect of the bill was important to me. I started with Health Care. Here is what I found and will share with you.
    
    Over the next two years, our government will direct 150 billion dollars in NEW funds to focus on health information technology, protecting health care coverage for millions of Americans for millions of Americans who have lost jobs and/ or are in danger of losing healthcare coverage, investing in evidence-based care for Americans, strengthening the Health workforce and in particular for community health workers and in public health, investing in the National Institutes of Health to fund projects that have been on hold that can improve our health via research, improving the Indian Health Service, and health technology security. Another focus in Prevention & Wellness.
    
    Improving our health must be attacked from multi-fronts, government support, timely access to doctors, clinics and hospitals, health insurance and payors but most importantly understanding our own role in staying healthy and plugged in.
    
    Do these three things NOW so that you can be a part of your own stimulus plan.
    
    1) Gather all of your medical records, lab tests, medications and future appointments. Research online medical records (like Google or Microsoft) and start your own personal health record online. Electronic medical records that are up to date, can save time, money and possibly your life.
    
    2) Pick on activity that you can do more of (exercise) or less of (smoking) to improve your health. Prevention can work with healthy habits, and determination to feel better. We all know what we need and can do for ourselves.
    
    3) Examine your existing health coverage. You may quality for a reduction at work by participating in a workshop or survey. Take advantage of work-related seminars. If you are uninsured, see if you quality for Medicaid or Medicare (if over 65). Call your local health department to inquire about Community Health Centers that can provide you with quality treatment.
    
    Your health is critical, be involved and educated.
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  • 11 months ago
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• Big Hearts in Go Red Women Big Hearts in Go Red Women

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    Diabetes, hypertension, obesity leading to three vessel heart blockage... and you are only 16. That was the experience that 27 year old Stephanie shared. Her mission is to spread the word that 'healthy choices now can have amazing results later'. She should know, as a Go Red Woman. Her vibrance, motivation and brightness shines through as she shares her message of the importance of being healthier to a younger generation. Stephanie was one of seven incredible, brave, honest survivors and supporters who were chosen as ambassadors of the American Heart Association's campaign Go Red campaign.
    
    Cardiovascular disease kills 450,000 women every year, one woman is dying as you are reading this blog. Sobering as that is, another reality is that 64% of women who die suddenly had no previous symptoms. Patriicia, another Go Red Woman is a grandmother who almost fell into that category. She was clinically dead for one hour, thankfully brought back to life and now is considered a miiracle. I am glad that she survived to tell her story. Today, she appreciates her life day by day and enjoys every minute.
    
    I urge you to visit GoRedForWomen.org and get informed. Find a casting call in your area so that you can share your story. We have to continue the fight against heart disease.
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  • 1 year ago
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• Go Red for Women Go Red for Women

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    The voice of Johnny Gill, 'put on your red dress'... will be echoing across America as women proudly put on their red dresses tomorrow to bring attention to a major killer - coronary heart disease (CHD) . CHD is the leading cause of death for all Americans, both men and women. If you look at life expectancy between black and whites, cardiovascular disease , including hypertension or high blood pressure and diabetes plays a significant role in the higher death rates of blacks in America. In fact, it accounts for more third of the differences in death rates between blacks and whites.
    
    We commonly talk about the risks factors for CHD, smoking, poor diet with excess salt intake and fatty foods, and not exercising. A new risk factor is Depression. That's right, how you feel, and what your mood is like can affect your heart. Having a chronic medical illness and being depressed can worsen every outcome. Depressed people are more likely to miss medical appointments, less likely to take their medication as prescribed and overuse hospital visits.
    
    A recent article in American Heart Journal, (January, 2009) concluded that blacks with CHD who screen positive for depression are less likely to be treated with anti-depressants despite having similar levels of depression as whites. This disparity occurred in hospitals and outpatient visits and indicated that black men were very likely to be untreated or undertreated.
    
    Many people with chronic diseases feel sad or depressed. If you or a family member is being treated for CHD, ask your doctor or health care provider about being screened for depression. Depression is treatable and like CHD is an equal opportunity illness. Let's bring awareness to both conditions.
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  • 1 year ago
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• Group Hug Anyone? Group Hug Anyone?

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    A recent article in the British Medical Journal examined the dynamic spread of happiness in a large social network. Essentially, the authors wrote that 'people's happiness depends on the happiness of others with whom they are connected'. In other words, choose your friends wisely and with a big heart.
    
    I get truly get it. My recent experience for the Inauguration of our 44th President was a giant lovefest, and you know what IT FELT WONDERFUL. Imagine two million plus people engaged in a giant group hug. I have never been around so many happy and kind people in my life.
    
    For instance, I was a lucky winner of tickets to the purple section via my Senator's (shout-out to Chuck Schumer) lottery of a pair of swearing-in tickets. My husband I enjoyed the process of going to the Senate office building on the hill. We were humbled walking the austere hallways , it was more emotional than we both expected. The building was full of families of every ethnicity who were proudly claiming the buildings as their own. I witnessed spontaneous acts of patriotism evidenced by loud singing and picture taking of any walking person in a uniform. Truly heart-tugging.
    
    The next morning we were one of many excitedly walking to the Purple gate only to be stopped by a human mass of other purple ticket holders with no where to go. Frustrated but still happy, we waited anxiously. Finally, we moved, people were very kind and we excused our way out of line to a small, small gate. We were one of the lucky purple ticket holders who made it in onto the capitol grounds. Getting in evidently was a huge disaster for many disapointed ticket holders.
    
    I really think that the overall happiness felt throughout the whole weekend beamed from individuals and families who came to Washington with the deliberate purpose of witnessing change in America will stay with me forever. The good will was contagious via abundant smiles, sincere greetings to strangers and a strong connection just because of a presence. Ticket holders were patient because they trusted and believed in the process. Powerful stuff. Let's continue to spread the love.
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  • 1 year ago
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• Lessons from a Floating Plane Lessons from a Floating Plane

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    Words can barely describe the emotion that I felt watching the relieved yet tense faces of the survivors of the downed but not doomed US Airways flight. Despite landing in the cold, frigid water, and terror that must have felt like a lifetime - you could sense the awe with every breath of the passengers and hear indebtedness to the fearless Captain Sully.
    
    So , now what. What can we learn from the recent events.
    
    Help others. All of the passengers talked about the comraderie that existed. Despite the chaos there was a spirt of helping one another. Lesson: You alway have time to reach out and lend a hand.

    • Be thankful. Even when bad things happen, instead of wondering why?, think about why not? Lesson: Appreciate the tough times with an attitude of gratitude.
    • Practice. From Sully to Vince (the lead rescuer), the fact that they constantly trained and anticipated situations proved invaluable. Lesson: Keep working hard.
    • Love often and loudly. Tell your friends and families how much you love and appreciate them. Lesson: Leave no time for regrets.
    • Stay in the moment. Enjoy every second and minute of your life. Lesson: Find joy in the little things.
    • Faith and Spirituality. The belief in a higher power is amazingly centering and fulfilling. Many passengers felt like their prayers were answered by being alive. Lesson: Be grateful and aware of the power of a strong spiritual belief.
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  • 1 year ago
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• Love & Money Love & Money

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:

    I had the great fortune of working with two amazing writers on national television last week, including Hilary Black, the editor of an amazing book, The Secret Currency of Love. If you missed the show, ask yourself, 'What is the secret currency of love?' Well, I can tell you it's not sex, good communication, or gifts, as most would guess. It's money.

    Some of you probably grew up with mothers, aunts, or sisters that would say, 'It's just as easy to marry a rich man as a poor one.' The role of money in relationships is long, complicated, and all too frequently too silent. Conflicts over money or financial issues are the number one cause of marital distress. Yet when most couples get married, they never talk about the debt they are bringing to the relationship, their spending habits, or attitudes about money. It's no wonder that tensions run high in relationships over finances. 

    Money touches more emotional feelings than you can imagine. Currency, dinero or dollars can confer power, freedom, love, and/or security. Many of us confuse financial security with emotional security and fulfillment. But it is hard to get a good hug from a bankroll. 

    Let's try and understand the role that money plays in our relationships. Talk about it without feeling guillty or envious, depressed or angry, and start an open dialogue with  your spouse.

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  • 1 year ago
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• Keep on Pushing Keep on Pushing

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    There are few times of the year that remind us more about self-reflection, fresh starts and the simple message of just hope than January 1. But rather than focusing on goals, lists and the like that usually come to mind, i would like to talk about what it takes to make the changes that we need to get and keep ourselves healthier. Like you, I have a check-list of things that I want to be new and different. Honestly, by mid-January, I have lost the momentum. It takes effort, not just baby steps but super-effort. Kinda like when you are depleted, bone-tired , could just drop if you took one more step and you know what, you keep pushing on. Tiredness is more of a mental frame of mind, we always have a little more. I am not speaking of digging deep to find more to give others, dig, find it and give it to yourself. Find the time, to work-out, take a bath, go for a walk, see a movie, make love, call someone you really want to talk to, breathe, read a great book , prepare, eat and enjoy a meal...do you see the trend?. Make this year all about you. There is only one hook, focus on a healthier you. You know what you need to do. Just do it. Do something good for yourself because you deserve it. Stop putting time and energy into activities that do not serve you or make your life better. Make 2009 your year, your time and all about a more energized, healthier, fulfilled self. I know that I am.
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  • 1 year ago
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• Holiday Stress Holiday Stress

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    Yesterday I gave 37 interviews, (both radio and television) over a span of 6 hours. It was exhausting, and also exhilarating. The topic was Holiday Stress and Bipolar Depression. The goals of the interviews were to highlight the debilitating effect of the depressive symptoms of Bipolar Disorder. Most of the interviewers were terrific. What I found the most interesting was their ongoing interest in how to handle the stress of the Holiday Season.
    
    Here is what I said over and over, and because it bears repeating will say it again. Although the holidays should be joyous and full of positive emotions, the Holiday season can be extremely STRESSFUL!!.
    
    The most common reasons for Holiday stress are financial, we over-extend, get bogged down with credit card debt, and often shop without regard to a budget. Another factor is that of family stress, there are some folks in our families who we just don't get along with and really don't care to be around. We also over-schedule ourselves during the holiday season. Sound familiar??
    So, make this Holiday reality based. Don't aim for the perfect holiday gathering, dinner or party. Do an un-holiday. Begin by asking for help from family and friends or organize a pot-luck for your meal. If people can't bring food, they can volunteer for clean-up or preparation. Instead of buying presents for everyone, draw names and have a dollar maximum. Think about it, how much do you really need? Get your family together and volunteer at a homeless shelter or food pantry. Giving is giving, it doesn't have to be wrapped in a bow. Try not to drink too much alcohol or over-indulge in fatty foods. The operative word is try. Don't give up your exercise routine or if you need to , start one. Exercise is a great stress-buster. Focus on getting enough sleep.
    
    The holiday season rolls around at the same time every year, a little mental preparation will go a long way to beating Holiday Stress.
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  • 2 years ago
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• Do You Know Your Status? Do You Know Your Status?

  • From: JanetETaylorMD
  • Description:
    Despite the joyous anticipation of the holiday season and hopefully a feast-filled Thanksgiving, we must face the facts of HIV/AIDs in people of color. Today is World AIDS Day and the reality is sobering. I remember being a young medical student when AIDS was a death sentence. Local hospitals and community clinics ostracized and shunned patients who were HIV sentence. Uninformed hospital personnel would 'gown and glove' for routine procedures like a X-ray. Some folks thought that the virus was airborne or could be spread on toilet seats or a casual peck on the cheek. An infant who tested positive then( in the late 1980's) was projected to not survive past the age of 3. Medical testing and information has improved drastically since then. We are now sucessfully treating individuals who are infected with the HIV virus. That's great news, but in the United States of America, black americans who make up 13% of the US population are overwhelmingly burdened by the virus. AIDS is the leading cause of death for black women between the ages of 18-44, 63% of pediatric AIDs cases are black. Today on the 20th Anniversary of World AIDS day, we need to change our mindset and sexual behavior. Make a commitment to not have unprotected sex without knowing your and your partner's status. Talk to your daughters' and sons' about responsible sexual behavior. Get tested for HIV on a regular basis. Understand the difference between being lonely versus alone, so that you don't settle for any warm body, but choose to wait for the right partner. If you are positive, practice safe sex, and inform your partner. Maybe then in twenty years, we can talk about the eradication of AIDS.
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  • 2 years ago
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