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Understanding Frontotemporal Dementia – which disproportionately affects Black people – through Wendy Williams’ diagnosis

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The recent news of Wendy Williams’ diagnosis with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), the identical disease that actor Bruce Willis suffers from, is sending shockwaves throughout the Black community.

Williams, 59, best known for her profession as a radio and tv host, revealed her diagnosis on the Lifetime series “Where’s Wendy Williams?” a two-part documentary about her physical and mental health.

The former host of “The Wendy Williams Show” has an extended history of health problems, from cocaine addiction to cocaine-related Graves’ disease and hyperthyroidism. In 2017, she passed out on set during a live Halloween taping, and in 2019, she admitted to living in a sober house after being found unconscious in her New York apartment months earlier, requiring emergency hospitalization and two blood transfusions. But for a lot of, the FTD diagnosis was a bombshell and a reminder of the impact of dementia on the Black community.

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) disproportionately affects the Black community in comparison with others, and the causes remain unclear. Although research into FTD in black populations has advanced significantly over the past 20 years, the complex nature of the disease makes it difficult to pinpoint a single definitive cause.

Worryingly, the incidence of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is increasing amongst black Americans over the age of 70. This is especially concerning because FTD is each early-onset and rapidly progressive, affecting a big proportion – greater than 1 / 4 – of this population who’re already living with some type of dementia, with essentially the most common being Alzheimer’s disease. According to the study, Black Americans are less more likely to receive a diagnosis in a timely manner and usually tend to see 4 or more physicians before a diagnosis is made. Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) Associate.

Moreover, in line with a 2023 study, FTD symptoms are inclined to be more severe in Black people Research on the University of PennsylvaniaBlack study participants reported higher dementia severity on the Clinical Dementia Rating Dementia Staging in comparison with white and Hispanic participants.

Frontotemporal dementia was discovered

The exact explanation for FTD just isn’t known, nevertheless it involves progressive damage to neurons within the areas of the brain liable for language production, often affecting people under the age of 65. As the disease progresses, the brain shrinks, further affecting areas that control behavior and personality.

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Although symptoms vary from individual to individual, early symptoms of FTD (which can appear as early as age 45) may include talking less, having trouble sleeping, and personality changes equivalent to lacking empathy or displaying socially inappropriate behavior equivalent to swearing or stealing . Other symptoms include:

  • Impaired judgment
  • Apathy
  • Decreased self-awareness
  • Loss of interest in normal every day activities
  • Emotional withdrawal from others
  • Loss of energy and motivation
  • Language difficulties or delays, including trouble naming objects, expressing words, understanding the meaning of words, or hesitation when speaking
  • Loss of concentration
  • Problems with planning and organization
  • Frequent mood changes
  • Excitement

Although the small print of Williams’ symptoms and her family’s observations are unknown, frontotemporal dementia often presents with subtle symptoms that might be easily missed within the early stages. This is further complicated by diagnosing FTD, which is difficult. It requires an in depth description of symptoms, family and medicine history, in addition to brain scans and blood tests. Often, FTD is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning it is simply reached after other potential causes have been ruled out.

There is currently no cure for frontotemporal dementia. However, supportive care strategies equivalent to therapy, behavior modification, and medications can assist patients adjust to their recent reality and deal with the continued mental and physical changes related to the disease. No cure has been found to stop or reverse the progression of frontotemporal dementia, but cholinesterase inhibitors (drugs used to treat Parkinson’s disease), antidepressants and antipsychotics equivalent to trazadone may help relieve symptoms of agitation, aggression and insomnia in some people. People.

Living with frontotemporal dementia

Wendy Williams’ recent diagnosis has understandably led to speculation a couple of connection to her past struggles with substance abuse. However, there’s currently no evidence to suggest a link between the 2.

Experts acknowledge the numerous challenges faced by people within the early stages of FTD, including fear, frustration and even embarrassment. One of essentially the most disturbing elements of FTD is the progressive lack of independence. While the specifics of Williams’ situation are unknown, the disease often requires a big level of care, requiring a mixture of medicines, home care, potential nursing home placement, and various therapies equivalent to speech and mental health support, which could make treatment harder. a big financial burden on her family.

Advanced planning reduces this burden and helps the patient and their family make a smooth transition into the longer term.

More research is required

The path to unraveling the complexities of FTD may result in earlier diagnosis and increased research efforts, with a selected concentrate on increasing participation from the Black community. While increased participation from the Black community is critical to advancing FTD research and developing higher treatments, a concerted effort is required to make sure equitable access to research opportunities and health care resources.


 

This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Health and Wellness

Is TikTok right? Does eating sea moss have health advantages?

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Sea moss is the newest “superfood” that influencers are raving about. They claim that sea moss products – often in gel form – have many health advantages. These include supporting brain and immune function or protecting against viruses and other microbes.

But do these health claims overlap? Let’s have a look.

What is sea moss?

Sea moss is made out of a kind of seaweed – particularly red algae – that grows in various places around the globe. There are three major species utilized in sea moss products:

  • (often known as Irish moss or carrageenan moss)

  • (seamoss or seabird nest)

  • (Irish moss or ogonori).

Some products also contain brown algae (commonly often known as bladderwrack, black wrack, rockweed, sea grape, bladderwrack, sea oak, cutweed, dye wrack, red wrack or wrack).

Most sea moss products are sold in gel form, which may be added to recipes, utilized in smoothies, frozen in ice cubes, or consumed by itself. The products are also available in the shape of capsules or you may buy them “raw” and use them to organize your individual gels at home.

Several kinds of red algae are utilized in commercially available sea moss products.
Nancy Ann Bowe/Shutterstock

What is the evidence?

Sea moss products have many potential health advantages, from supporting immunity, to promoting skin health and improving mood and focus, and way more.

But is there any evidence to support these claims?

Recent studies have reviewed the biological properties of the major sea moss species (, i).

They suggest that these species may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic and probiotic properties.

However, the overwhelming majority of research related to , and – like all research on – comes from studies conducted in test tubes or using cell and animal models. We shouldn’t assume that the observed health effects will probably be the identical in humans.

In cell and animal studies, researchers typically administer algae within the laboratory and use specific extracts wealthy in bioactive compounds, fairly than commercially available sea moss products.

They also use very different – ​​often relatively larger – amounts in comparison with what someone would typically eat when eating sea moss products.

This implies that existing research cannot tell us in regards to the processes that occur within the human body when eating and digesting sea moss.

Sea moss may have similar effects on humans. However, to this point there could be very little evidence that individuals who eat sea moss will experience any of the claimed health advantages.

Nutritional value

Eating sea moss doesn’t replace the necessity to eat a balanced eating regimen that features a wide range of fruit and veggies.

and, like many seaweeds, they’re a wealthy source of nutrients corresponding to fatty acids, amino acids, vitamin C and minerals. These nutrients are also more likely to be present in sea moss, although some could also be lost during preparation of the product (for instance, soaking may reduce vitamin C content), and people who remain could also be present in relatively small amounts.

There are claims that sea moss could also be harmful to people affected by thyroid problems. This refers back to the relationship between thyroid function and iodine. The algae used to supply sea moss are a major source of iodine, and excessive iodine intake may contribute to thyroid problems, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions. That’s why these products often contain caveats related to iodine sensitivity or thyroid health.

Is it value it?

So you could be wondering if sea moss is value trying. Here are some things to contemplate before you choose whether to begin adding sea moss to your smoothies.

A 375ml jar costs around A$25-30 and can last for around seven to 10 days for those who follow the really helpful dose of two tablespoons a day. This makes it a comparatively expensive source of nutrients.

Two glass jars filled with dark pink gel.
Sea moss is often sold in gel form that may be eaten on the kitchen table.
April Sims/Shutterstock

There is sea moss often overrated since it comprises 92 different minerals. Although there could also be 92 minerals present, the quantity of minerals in algae will probably be differ depending on the place of cultivation and conditions.

The efficiency with which algae minerals may be absorbed and utilized by the body also varies between minerals. For example, sodium absorbs wellalthough only about 50% iodine is absorbed.

But sea moss does it has also been shown to contain lead, mercury and other heavy metals – in addition to radioactive elements (corresponding to radon) that may be harmful to humans. Seaweed is understood for its properties ability to build up minerals from their environment, whether helpful or harmful to human nutrition. Remember that more doesn’t at all times mean higher.

What else do I eat?

While you will not discover a full dietary breakdown on the jar, it is usually sensible to examine what other ingredients you could be consuming. Sea moss products may contain plenty of other ingredients corresponding to lime, monk fruit powder, spirulina and ginger, amongst others.

These ingredients vary by brand and product, so pay attention to your needs and at all times check.

Despite health claims, most sea moss products also contain disclaimers indicating that these products aren’t intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

If you have any concerns about your health, at all times seek the advice of a healthcare skilled for accurate and personalized medical advice.

This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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Health and Wellness

Telling Our Stories: How StoryCorps and the Jordan Brand Will Amplify Black Voices with the Brightness in Black Initiative – Essence

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StorCorps

StoryCorpsa national nonprofit organization dedicated to elevating the voices of on a regular basis people has launched a groundbreaking latest initiative, “Brightness in Black.” This three-yr project, in partnership with Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand’s Black Community Commitment, goals to spotlight Black stories in a way that shifts the narrative and celebrates the joy and diverse richness of Black life.

To dig deeper into this multi-yr initiative, ESSENCE sat down StoryCorps CEO Sandra Clark. She emphasized that Brightness in Black goes beyond traditional storytelling and seeks to alter the way black stories are told and received. Launched in September, the project launched in Philadelphia and Atlanta – two cities deeply rooted in black culture and history.

Clark began by emphasizing that Light in the Black is rooted in StoryCorps’ core mission – empowering people to inform their very own stories in their very own voices. “StoryCorps has traveled across the country over the last 20 years, collecting stories from everyday people. And what we know about these stories is that when people can tell their own stories in their own voices about what is most important to them… they become a legacy,” Clark said. “These stories combined together constitute the true history of America.”

As Clark explained, this initiative will not be nearly documenting experiences; it’s about addressing oversimplified and often negative narratives about Black life. “Our stories are often oversimplified. The narratives about our lives are often very limited,” she said, reflecting on how Black communities are typically portrayed in the media. Brightness in Black is a probability to flip the script – to give attention to the nuances, joys and aspirations that are not all the time at the focus.

Brightness in Black officially premiered in Philadelphia and Atlanta in September, and Clark explained that the alternative wasn’t nearly demographics; it was about history, community strength and local partnerships. “These cities have such a rich Black history, and the people here are no strangers to working to change the narrative,” Clark said.

Telling Our Stories: How StoryCorps and the Jordan Brand will amplify Black voices through the Brightness in Black initiative

StoryCorps doesn’t just parachute in and ask people to inform their stories. Clark explained that the project relies heavily on collaboration with community organizations, creators and educators in these cities. “We work with local partners — organizations and educators who have been doing this work for a long time. They understand the power of storytelling and the importance of capturing the full scope of Black life,” she said.

Through partnerships with HBCUs, community organizations and local creators, Brightness in Black will launch with storytelling events, recording sessions and workshops designed to have interaction each individuals and larger communities. “It’s not just about coming in, recording a story and leaving,” Clark explained. “We are creating connections by working with local leaders to ensure this initiative is deeply rooted in communities.”

One of the key pillars of the initiative is changing the typical narrative specializing in combat. Clark said that while difficult elements of the Black experience can’t be ignored, there may be also way more that needs attention.

“We as Black people are used to telling our stories, starting with trauma, hardship and hardship. And while these experiences are certainly part of our lives, there is much more to our story. Brightness in Black gives us a space to talk about our dreams, aspirations and the joys of everyday life. We want to focus on the greatness of Black life in all its forms,” Clark said.

Telling Our Stories: How StoryCorps and the Jordan Brand will amplify Black voices through the Brightness in Black initiative

The initiative includes in-person and virtual opportunities to share your stories through the StoryCorps app, community storytelling sessions, and StoryCorps Connect, which allows friends and family to record conversations from anywhere.

Black Joy and Black Fatherhood are examples of the stories Clark desires to amplify through this initiative. So what happens to all these powerful stories once they’re shared? The recordings collected during the three-yr initiative shall be archived at the Library of Congress, making these stories a part of the historical record. Additionally, the stories shall be shared widely – through radio, podcasts and local events that bring these narratives to life in their communities.

“Changing the narrative works best when everyone can hear the stories,” Clark said. “It’s not just about sharing our stories in Black communities – it’s about the wider world hearing these stories. This is how we change the perspective.”

Each city involved in Brightness in Black can have the opportunity to present these stories locally, allowing residents of Philadelphia, Atlanta and other future cities to listen to reflections on their very own community in a meaningful way. As “Brightness in Black” develops over the next three years, Clark is worked up about the project’s potential impact. “This is not just a collection of stories – it is a movement to change the way we view and value Black lives,” she said.

“We want to ensure that at the end of this initiative, we have created a lasting legacy that future generations can look back on and see the full picture of Black life in America.”

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Health and Wellness

Why Monday is the most dangerous day on a construction site

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The Australian construction industry employs over 1.3 million employees. That’s about 9% of the workforce.

But there could also be construction sites dangerous workplaces. There are also more accidents on the street Monday than every other weekday, as we see on this pattern many countries.

Many aspects give us this “The Monday effect“. We can address these and other issues to scale back avoidable workplace accidents on Mondays and other weekdays.

Construction is dangerous

The construction sector has higher rates accidents at work than the national average.

The industry reported that in 2023 45 employees diedwhich is a rise from the five-year average of 33.

Construction employees most often die from being hit by moving objects. The next most common causes are deaths resulting from falls, trips and slips.

Financial yr 2022-23 There were over 16,600 serious employees’ compensation claims in the construction sector. The median salary is now A$18,479 and the median lost work time is 8.5 weeks – each higher than in previous years.

“The Monday Effect”

Various studies conducted in numerous regions confirm that “The Monday effect”in construction. For example, a Chinese study found that fatal accidents occurred 12.6% more often on Mondays in comparison with other weekdays. There was a similar trend in Spain AND Hong Kong.

We also see “The Monday effect” IN other industries, akin to agriculture, forestry, mining and manufacturing.

A Spanish study that checked out records almost 3 million accidents at workincluding construction, confirmed the Monday effect across industries, firms of all sizes, every kind of employees, and every kind of injuries.

Linked data from all workplace accidents in Queensland also confirms Monday’s impact.

Why Mondays?

Construction accidents are more likely on Monday many reasons.

For example, staying up late on Sunday night and getting a poor night’s rest the night before the work week starts contributes to “cognitive failures” and mistakes at work on Monday.

Mondays often involve starting recent tasks or projects. This may cause unknown risks.

Construction site conditions, including weather, may change over the weekend, causing unexpected hazards. For example, strong winds over the weekend could cause scaffolding or unsecured materials to maneuver, increasing the risk of accidents on Monday.

We need to handle the root causes

AND test chargeable for the safety and efficiency of the Australian construction industry, stressed the have to proactively anticipate and stop accidents somewhat than taking motion after they occur – on Mondays or other days of the week.

The study used in-depth interviews with 30 industry professionals at 14 firms to discover several aspects contributing to construction accidents:

  • unrealistic deadlineswhich might prompt employees to rush and cut corners to get the job done on time

  • shortage of expert laborwhich suggests some employees could also be doing work for which they aren’t qualified

  • employees are afraid to talk out about safety concernswhich can result in failure to report and address potential threats

  • complicated and unknown custom structureswhich can involve unique risks and challenges that employees may not have encountered before

  • insufficient human factor risk assessmentwhich include fatigue, stress or cognitive overload and might result in errors and unsafe decisions on the spot

  • rushed training programsparticularly for safety reasons, which can leave employees unprepared to cope with risks or follow proper procedures.

What can we do to forestall accidents?

Part of the solution to a few of these problems is supporting a workplace culture during which security it is perceived as a core value and shared responsibility of employers, superiors and employees.

In construction firms, where safety is treated as “psychological contract” – unwritten but mutual obligations of employees and superiors – employees are higher equipped identifying and eliminating security threats.

Awareness campaigns highlighting issues akin to the “Monday effect” can even encourage adjustments to workflows to scale back the risk of accidents. This may include scheduling less dangerous or less complex tasks for Mondays to present employees time to return to their every day duties.

What else can we do?

Technology it will possibly also help prevent accidents.

For example, wearable sensors on a wristband or smartphone can discover, track and monitor employees body posture. These sensors can detect unsafe lifting practices, excessive bending, or prolonged exposure to a static or uncomfortable position. These are aspects that may contribute to ergonomic risks and injuries.

Augmented reality could be used to simulate tasks to assist employees practice techniques safely.

Artificial intelligence could analyze the image from the camera Down monitor workplaces in case of dangerous activities and signaling threats.

But cost concernsprivacy and industry belief that these investments are worthwhile are amongst the barriers to the adoption of those technologies.

Talking about money

Raising awareness of the economic costs of workplace accidents can change attitudes and priorities.

2019 Australian study found that the average cost of a construction accident ranges from $2,040 to $6,024,517. This depends on whether the accident resulted in brief or long absence from work, whether someone is partially or completely unable to work, or whether someone dies.

Elements of this estimate include compensation, lack of income or earnings, costs of coaching and retraining of staff, social welfare advantages, in addition to costs of treatment, tests and care.

Goal: zero deaths

Deaths and injuries at work on construction sites mustn’t be dismissed as accidents. They are a symptom of many systemic aspects that should be addressed through thoughtful motion and a commitment to safety.

Just as road safety initiatives aim to realize zero fatalities, the construction industry should focus on achieving zero workplace fatalities.

This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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