Health and Wellness
Meet the scientist conducting inclusive genetic research to transform healthcare in the Caribbean – Essence

Photo source: CariGenetics
In a world where scientific progress often overlooks diversity, Dr. Carika Weldon stands out as a pioneer determined to revolutionize genetic research in the Caribbean. As the founder and CEO of the company CariGenetics— the first-ever women-founded genomics company based in the Caribbean — Dr. Weldon has spearheaded a movement to be sure that the advantages of precision medicine reach Caribbean communities and the diaspora. Its mission is to fill the gap in health care by tailoring advances to the unique genetic makeup of individuals of Caribbean descent. “The genetic diversity of the Caribbean is a treasure trove of information,” Dr. Weldon explained.
“Our goal at Carigenetics is to understand how our unique genetic makeup influences health outcomes and to use this knowledge to improve the well-being of Caribbean communities.” Founded in 2022, the Bermuda-based company specializes in genomic research to address common health issues in the Caribbean, including sickle cell, breast and prostate cancer. Weldon’s goal is to harness the power of precision medicine, which emphasizes tailoring health care to individual patients based on their unique genetic profiles, lifestyle and other aspects. This approach contrasts with the traditional, one-size-matches-all model, which goals to provide more targeted and effective therapies.
Dr. Weldon explains: “Precision medicine focuses on understanding an individual’s specific needs, which allows us to save time, optimize resources and solve problems faster. This not only leads to better patient outcomes, but also translates into savings for the healthcare system.” One of the most groundbreaking CariGenetic initiatives, the so-called A genome-wide pilot study of breast cancer in the Caribbean, is the first of its kind in the Caribbean. The study focused on understanding the genetic aspects contributing to higher cancer mortality rates in the region. It could pave the way for targeted, personalized therapies that would save countless lives.

This landmark study successfully recruited 102 participants, performed whole-genome sequencing locally, analyzed all 102 samples and started to discover latest genetic trends in breast cancer, marking 4 major milestones for the broader Caribbean community. Dr. Weldon, a Bermuda native, said she founded CariGenetics with the mission of empowering local scientists, reducing dependence on outside labs and constructing trust in the community for genetic testing. “The first problem, therefore, is that all the medicines currently on the market have been designed based on European genetic data covering only 15% of the world’s population. This means that 85% of the world, including us in the Caribbean, has no access to medicines,” she added.
The second point she explained is the history of exploitation and misuse of Black people in the name of science. For example, in the Tuskegee Experiment, which began in 1932, black men were secretly denied treatment for syphilis in order to monitor the progression of the disease. They “died, went blind, went mad, or experienced other serious health problems” due to the untreated disease. Similarly, in 1951, Henrietta Lacks’ cells were collected without her consent, which contributed to quite a few breakthroughs in medicine, including methods of treating cancer. However, her contributions weren’t appreciated during her lifetime.
These abuses have deepened long-standing deep mistrust between Black communities and the medical community, underscoring the urgent need for ethical reforms and inclusive research practices. “A history of abuse, like that of Henrietta Lacks and Tuskegee, has led to a lack of trust. If we had more black scientists and doctors, we could prevent such injustices,” Dr. Weldon said.
CariGenetics goals to increase the representation of individuals of African descent in genetic research by specializing in the wealthy genetic diversity of the Black Caribbean population. The organization also strives to empower local Black scientists and community members to actively participate in this work. Addressing the historical distrust resulting from the unethical treatment of Black communities in science, CariGenetics is working to change this narrative and rebuild trust through inclusive and ethical research practices.
This focus began with Dr. Weldon’s journey from emerging neuroscientist to CEO of CariGenetics. Dr. Weldon stated that from an early age she was fascinated by the intricacies of the human brain. She initially dreamed of becoming a neuroscientist, but her passion ultimately led her in a special direction. Dr. Weldon’s path took a decisive turn when she pursued a level in medical biochemistry in the UK, where she faced setbacks, including rejection from Oxford University. But her determination never wavered. She obtained her Ph.D. in Biochemistry, fueled by a deep curiosity about the “why” behind medical testing and genetic mechanisms, laying the foundation for her future work.
The turning point got here when Dr. Weldon learned of Iceland’s pioneering efforts in population genetics. Iceland’s success in sequencing the genetic material of its population inspired it to ask: “Why cannot we do something like this in Bermuda and the Caribbean? “We are genetically diverse and can provide unique insights,” shared Dr. Weldon with ESSENCE. This spark of inspiration later guided her scientific work and fueled her vision for CariGenetics.
This spark of inspiration later guided her work as a researcher at Oxford, where a groundbreaking study on African genetic material was published in 2019 found that individuals of African descent had 10% more genetic variability than the standard human reference genome, which was mainly Eurocentric. This highlighted the urgent need for more inclusive genetic testing.

Dr. Weldon’s commitment to the Caribbean region deepened during the COVID-19 pandemic when she returned to Bermuda to lead research efforts in the country as a scientific advisor to the Prime Minister and Laboratory Director of the Government COVID-19 Laboratory.
Her experience highlighted glaring gaps in the scientific infrastructure in the Caribbean, further fueling her desire to bring cutting-edge genomic research home. “With the pandemic, I noticed that we’d like more scientists and genetic research in the Caribbean. We were to this point behind that we had to send samples to one lab in Trinidad for the entire region. I wanted to create something sustainable, so I founded CariGenetics to give attention to the genetic makeup of the Caribbean,” he says
One of CariGenetics’ most progressive approaches involves the use of bio-NFTs (non-fungible tokens) to provide participants with ownership of their genetic data. This cutting-edge technology gives individuals control over their information and the ability to monetize it.
Dr. Weldon is prepared to make a difference through her work at CariGenetics. Her immediate goal is to expand research beyond the initial breast cancer study to include prostate cancer and expand that research to the Caribbean. By identifying latest genetic markers related to breast cancer and other cancers common in Caribbean populations, Dr. Weldon goals to facilitate earlier and more accurate diagnosis.
Her vision is to use these discoveries to tailor medical therapies specifically for Caribbean communities. This approach reflects successful models akin to a recent study in England that identified a novel genetic mutation in the local population, leading to the development of targeted screening protocols. Dr. Weldon wants to replicate this model in the Caribbean by improving preventive care and treatment. The initiative also goals to expand its reach, with plans to establish partnerships and conduct research in Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Saint Lucia, in addition to other Caribbean countries.
The goal of this expansion is to construct a sturdy network of clinicians and researchers dedicated to improving health care outcomes for the Caribbean population. “Genetic testing may also help us move away from a one-size-matches-all approach to medicine, but we also need to engage and construct trust in our communities. That’s what CariGenetics is for,” Dr. Weldon said.
Health and Wellness
The flu season in the United States is the most intense in at least 15 years

The season of the winter American virus is fully strength, and in one measure it is the most intense in 15 years.
One of the influenza activity indicators is the percentage of visits to the medical office powered by flu symptoms. Last week, this number was clearly higher than the peak of every influenza season from 2009-2010, when the pandemic of the pig flu hit the nation data Published on Friday morning by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Of course, other viral infections could be mistaken for flu. But Covid-19 seems to fall, in response to hospital data and CDC modeling forecasts. Available data He also suggests that one other respiratory disease, RSV, disappears at national level.
Flu forced schools to shut in some states. The Independent School District Godley, a 3,200-high-cycle system near Fort Worth in Texas, was closed last week for 3 days after 650 students and 60 employees who left on Tuesday.
Jeff Meador, a spokesman for the district, said that the overwhelming majority of diseases were flu and in addition a throat zone. He called it the worst flu season he remembered.
Until now, this season, he estimates CDC, there have been at least 24 million influenza diseases, 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths – including at least 57 children. Traditionally, the flu season boasts around February.
Generally, 43 states reported high or very high activity of flu last week. The flu was the most intense in the Southern, South -Western and Western states.
In Rochester, New York, the flu season was intense, but not necessarily worse than in the peak of other years, said Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatric rescue doctor at the University of Rochester Medical Center.
She said that there is plenty of flu, but there is still plenty of RSV and a surprising number of youngsters from Covid-19.
“All respiratory diseases are nearby, with revenge,” Murray added.
CDC refused to permit the Associated Press reporter to confer with an agency fluke expert on recent trends. Trump’s administration ordered temporary “pause” on the communication of the health agency and still refuses to use for an interview, which were routinely awarded in the past.
In the late Friday afternoon, the CDC spokesman admitted that recent data show “the highest absolute value” of influenza -like disease in comparison with other seasons, but added that the statistics are complicated: this value refers to the basic estimation of visits to the doctor’s office, but the final analysis is again calculated annually. At the end of January, CDC described the season as “moderate” of the seasons.
US health officials recommend that every one 6 months and elders receive Annual flu vaccination.
About 44% of adults have influenza shots this winter, similar to last winter. But the range of youngsters is FarAbout 45% of this winter. Usually it is about 50%, in response to the CDC data.
About 23% of adults in the USA have been up to this point in their vaccinations Covid-19 since the end of January, in comparison with about 20% at the same time of the previous yr. Covid-19 vaccination indicators for youngsters were roughly the same, about 12%.
The government has not yet informed about the estimates how well the flu vaccine works this season.
The results of patient tests indicate that two strains of seasonal flu that cause most diseases – type H1N1 type A and H3N2 type A. Health officials rigorously observe the third strain – A bird flu Known as H5N1 type A – which has sick tens of hundreds of thousands of animals, however it is known that he only infects 67 people in the USA
To avoid seasonal virusesDoctors say that you need to avoid touching your eyes, nose and lips, because germs can spread in this fashion. You must also wash your hands with soap and water, clean often touching surfaces and avoid close contact with sick people.

(Tagstotranslat) flu
Health and Wellness
Health of cases: Why is the intermittent post so popular? Here’s how to do it

Ghettos
Emergency diets are inaccessible, intentionally eating a intermittent post, it is inside. But what is the intermittent post?
The intermittent form is a weight-reduction plan that mixes periods of food and fast, which normally involves eating repeatedly on some days and fasting on others or eating in a limited time every day.
According to the registered dietitian Nicole, a brief, most diets concentrate on the types of eaten foods. The intermittent post is focused on meals. It focuses on dietary windows specific to time, which might include gaps during a meal, akin to post for 16 hours and eating just for eight hours of the day. There is also a 5: 2 method that limits calories just for two days of the week. “The intermittent post allows people to determine the times when they want to start and stop eating. This can lead to consuming smaller portions, calorie restrictions and limiting unhealthy snacks at certain hours of night. This diet has gained popularity over the years because it was associated with weight management, “he shares.
The registered dietitian, Noble, believes that the noise around the intermittent post results from potential health advantages, including improvement in weight management, reduced inflammation, and even protection against chronic diseases, akin to type 2 diabetes and heart disease. However, the post is not for everybody, and its success depends largely on a well -balanced weight-reduction plan.
“To make the best use of fast windows, focus on products with a high fiber content, such as vegetables and legumes, healthy fats, such as avocado and nuts, slim proteins to satiety and complex carbohydrates, such as rice queen for energy. Maintaining hydration with water and herbal teas is equally crucial, “suggests noble.
For anyone who is concerned about trying a intermittent post, it is crucial to work with a registered dietitian. The dietitian can adapt the plan to meet individual health needs, ensure satisfying the requirements of nutrients and solve any fears, especially for individuals with diseases or unique dietary needs.
Remember that starting a gradual hydration and specializing in foods large from nutrients, akin to slim proteins, healthy fats and high fiber options during food periods, are the key to success. Always a priority is quality over the quantity when selecting what to eat.
Although it is usually a beneficial tool for some, it is essential to listen to your body and search for skilled suggestions to ensure secure and effective fasting.
What should I eat if I would like to do a intermittent post?
According to short, the key to intermittent post is the selection of nutritious dishes and listening to your body. It is essential to concentrate on the well -balanced density of nutrients. Some of the best dishes that joined the intermittent travel on an empty stomach are lean proteins akin to chicken, turkey and fish. Also incorporating proteins wealthy in vegetable fiber, akin to legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans). Without losing complex carbohydrates, akin to sweet potatoes, quinoa, Farro, oats and ensuring you eat fruit and vegetables! Also, including healthy fats, akin to avocado, olive oil, walnuts, chia and salmon seeds, are essential to maintain a well -balanced weight-reduction plan. Making water a priority during fasting and eating periods is also the key to intermittent post!
However, it ought to be noted that this is just one approach to reducing calorie intake. There are some populations which can be exposed to a high risk of intermittent post, akin to diabetics, pregnant women, children and folks with chronic diseases. Athletes must also watch out in the event that they resolve sporadically quickly, because it is essential to refuel after exercise. They at all times refer to a health care provider and a registered dietitian before starting a brand new weight-reduction plan scheme.
According to a registered dietitian, Carlie Saint-Laurent Beauce, there are several ways to practice post: Carlie Saint-Laurent:
Extended post at night: this features a post for 14 hours or longer overnight.
Fasting weight-reduction plan (FMD): This includes compliance with a low -limited protein and sugar -sugar weight-reduction plan, in addition to unsaturated fat for five consecutive days a month.
5: 2 Diet: This includes eating a traditional, healthy weight-reduction plan for five days and limiting calories to 500-600 kcal for two days inconsistent.
8-hour food window: this involves consuming all meals inside 8 hours and fasting for the remaining 16 hours.
Regardless of the chosen method, these dietitians strongly recommend cooperation with a registered dietitian dietitian to be certain you eat your body and meet the needs of personal calories, macronutrous and microelements.
Health and Wellness
American Heart Association increases CPR awareness using Kendrick’s “Not Like Us”

The American Heart Association uses Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé songs to assist save lives.
Grammy Awards were broadcast on February 2, and plenty of black artists took home one of the best awards at night. Kendrick Lamar was nominated for five awards for his hit “Not Like Us”. The American Heart Association took the chance to advertise practical CPR techniques.
The organization went to its Instagram to look to shout DJ Mustard, producer “not like us” and Launch consciousness.
“Mustard on the rhythm. And it can help you save your life with the help of CPR. If you see the collapse of a teenager or adults, call 911 and firmly and quickly in the middle of your chest to the rhythm “not like us”.
The organization followed one other song “Texas Hold ‘Em” won by Grammy.
According to the organization, the pace of the song can be ideal for resuscitation only in practice, at 110 beats per minute. After congratulating Beyoncé his first Grammy album, the signature called readers to “Crank Up” “Texas Hold ‘Em” to save lots of their lives.
“Park your Lexus and reject the keys, because Beyoncé finally won the album of the year. So the fall of “Texas Hold them” and remember that if you see the fall of a teenager or adults, CPR is just the best chance to save their lives. ”
The decision of the American Heart Association to pair details about saving life with the historical victories of Grammy Black Artists is valid.
Heart disease is The fundamental explanation for death For all adult Americans. Black accounts for 22% of all deaths as a consequence of heart disease, impacts, hypertension and heart attacks, based on CDC. Only 10% of patients with heartbeat are experiencing if the event occurs outside the hospital. The possibilities of survival improve because of effective CPR techniques.
Find out learn how to pass the CPC effectively only Here.
(Tagstranslate) Grammy
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