Health Matters Podcast is a series created in collaboration with WVUA-23 and Alabama Public Radio that features University Medical Center physicians and providers who bring awareness of important health issues and relevant and timely health information to the public.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects about 5 million women of reproductive age in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that can lead to the formation of cysts in the ovaries. Dr. John McDonald, an ob/gyn with University Medical Center, explains more about this condition.
UMC-Northport provides quality health care to the Northport community with services in family medicine, internal medicine, prenatal care, sports medicine, neurology and obstetrics. The clinic, located at 6205 Jemison Lane, also offers social work, nutrition, ultrasound, lab and x-ray services. Dr. Stacy Horsley, a family medicine physician at UMC-Northport, says new patients are welcome and appointments can be made by calling (205) 348-6700.
Measles cases are in the rise in the United States. Dr. Jane Weida, a family medicine physician with University Medical Center. Weida explains why in this Health Matters podcast.
In March, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued new guidance for COVID-19. The changes were made after health officials determined the current virus is milder, mostly because the vast majority of the U.S. population has been vaccinated against or has had COVID-19. Dr. Tom Weida, University Medical Center’s chief medical officer, talks about the changes in this Health Matters television segment podcast.
On Feb. 16, the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that embryos created through the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process are considered children. Dr. Tom Weida, chief medical officer at University Medical Center, explains more about the impact of this ruling. (Note: Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed into law March 6 a bill intended to give legal protection to IVF clinics in the state.)
The Capstone Hospitalist Group, operated by University Medical Center, includes physicians and nurse practitioners who care for hospitalized patients at DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa and Northport Medical Center. Dr. Lisa Gillespie, medical director of the Capstone Hospitalist Group, explains.
Since 2020, approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), according to the CDC. Dr. Lea Yerby, associate professor with CCHS who researches health disparities in children, describes ASD as a development condition that impacts how people learn, interact with others, and behave and communicate. In addition to her research, Yerby partners with Cynthia Ellis and Tammy Barkey from the UA Regional Autism Network, helping individuals with ASD and their families connect with resources and services.
As people age, their health needs change. For family members caring for an elderly loved one, coordinating a care plan with that person’s doctor can ensure they receive the health-care services and resources they need. Dr. Bob McKinney, director of the Department of Case Management and Social Services at University Medical Center, explains.
An estimated 37 million people in the U.S. have Chronic Kidney Disease, a condition that damages the kidneys and prevents the filtering of blood through the body, according to the CDC. Dr. Pamela Payne-Foster, a preventive medicine physician and professor of community medicine and population health at UA’s College of Community Health Sciences, studies Chronic Kidney Disease. She is currently working to develop an app, in collaboration with Drs. Felecia Wood and JoAnn Oliver, faculty with UA’s Capstone College of Nursing, to help primary care physicians determine the stage of Chronic Kidney Disease in their patients.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 4.4% of U.S. adults will experience bipolar disorder at some time in their lives, and this disorder can even affect youth and adolescents. Dr. James Reeves, a psychiatrist with University Medical Center, describes bipolar disorder and explains how the condition can best be treated.
Each year in the United States, 97% of children 5 years of age or younger are diagnosed with RSV, a respiratory virus that commonly affects young children, and about 300 die from the illness, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Shawn Cecil, a pediatrician at University Medical Center, discusses ways to detect and help protect children from RSV.
Motor vehicle injuries are a leading cause of death among children in the US, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but the risk of serious injuries and deaths can be reduced with car seats. Dr. Shawn Cecil, a pediatrician at University Medical Center, gives tips about how car seats should be used for children up to 11 years of age.
University Medical Center provides quality primary care from six locations in West Alabama—Tuscaloosa, Northport, Demopolis, Fayette, Carrollton and Livingston. Dr. Richard Friend, dean of The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences, which operates UMC, said improving health in Alabama communities, particularly its rural communities, is the College’s mission.
Obesity in adolescents has been on the rise for the past several decades. In the 1960s, only 5% of adolescents were obese. As of 2019, that number had risen to nearly 20%. Dr. Shawn Cecil is a pediatrician at University Medical Center. He encourages parents to focus on their adolescent’s overall health, including healthy eating options and exercise, and said that often small changes can be very helpful.
COVID-19 cases have ticked up recently. Dr. Tom Weida, chief medical officer for University Medical Center, said this is likely the result of a new Omicron variant that, while not as severe as previous variants, is proving to be a bit more contagious. He recommends everyone six months of age and older get a COVID-19 vaccine as protection against the variant.
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a respiratory virus that affects both children and adults. But for the first time, there is an RSV vaccine available for those ages 65 and older. Dr. Tom Weida, chief medical officer of University Medical Center and a family medicine physician, explains.
Flu season is here and the best time to get vaccinated is during September and October to help protect your body during most of flu season. Dr. Tom Weida, chief medical officer of University Medical Center, said it takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to build the antibodies needed for protection against the flu.
Alzheimer’s is a common type of brain disorder, progressing from mild memory loss to possibly an inability to carry on a conversation and respond to the environment. Dr. Anne Halli-Tierney, a geriatrician at University Medical Center, talks about a U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved drug called Leqembi that can be used to slow down the progression of early Alzheimer’s disease.
Incorporating mind-body practices such as yoga and meditation could help improve a child’s social and emotional mindset. Dr. Caroline Boxmeyer, professor of psychiatry and behavioral medicine and associate dean for academic affairs with UA’s College of Community Health Sciences, talks about a University of Alabama research prevention program called Mindful Coping Power that seeks to reduce mental health issues in children.
Gun violence is a leading cause of premature death in the United States and firearm-related fatalities reached a new peak of 45,222 in 2020, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Dr. Pamela Payne-Foster is a preventive medicine physician and professor of community medicine and population health at The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences. She explains that while gun violence is currently a public a health crisis, there are solutions.
HPV (human papilloma virus) is a common virus that approximately 90% of sexually active adults will deal with in their lifetimes. But there is an effective vaccine for nine different strains of HPV, including high-risk strains that can lead to cervical and other cancers. Dr. Mallory Scogin, an obstetrician-gynecologist at University Medical Center, explains.
The scorching summer heat has settled in Alabama but there are ways to protect yourself and keep cool. Dr. Anne-Laura Cook, an internal medicine physician with University Medical Center, said the best thing to do is prepare – stay well hydrated, avoid wearing heavy clothing and limit outdoor activities to early morning and late evening. She said if you experience cramps or exhaustion, move to a cool place and drink water. Seek medical help if you experience nausea and feel weak and lethargic.
Residents in rural communities often have limited access to health care. Dr. Pamela Payne-Foster, a preventive medicine physician with UA’s College of Community Health Sciences, explains in a WVUA-23 Health Matters segment that a shortage of physicians and a lack of transportation are among the reasons why.
As people age and require more care, that work often falls to their loved ones. And that can be challenging, especially if caregivers are still working. Dr. Martha Crowther, a clinical psychologist at University Medical Center, encourages families to plan in advance – before care is even needed – and come up with a playbook for how to help handle their loved one’s health, finances, daily needs and other matters. Consider a geriatrician, whose medical practices are specifically designed to care for older adults. Crowther says it’s also important for caregivers to take care of their own health.
Mental health issues often aren’t talked about in minority communities, but the needs are there. Dr. Martha Crowther, a clinical psychologist at University Medical Center, said she sees a lot of depression and anxiety in her minority patients and that contributors can include a lack of income and other resources. She also said suicide rates among African Americans, and African American males in particular, are increasing.
COVID-19 was a major global crisis and concerns remain about its impact on mental health. Dr. John Burkhardt, a clinical psychologist at University Medical Center, said people who had COVID-19 continue to worry about the virus’s impact on memory and other cognitive functions. And while it is hard to explicitly quantify its effect on mental health, Burkhardt likens COVID-19 to a traumatic experience because it was a major pandemic that shut down the world.
Anxiety involves feelings of worry and fear that are not temporary, and it is probably the most common mental health disorder. But anxiety is treatable. Dr. Jamie Reeves, a psychiatrist with University Medical Center, said medications and therapy can help, and he explains that there are things people can do on their own to help manage their anxiety – exercise, eat healthy and get enough sleep.
Changes in mental health and mental health care delivery changed significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Marisa Giggie, a psychiatrist with University Medical Center, said mental health care providers saw considerably more patients struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction issues and suicidal thoughts and attempts during the pandemic. She also said a substantial amount of mental health care was provided via telehealth.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and encourages us to seek support and help when needed. Dr. John Burkhardt is a clinical psychologist at University Medical Center. In the first of a series of Health Matters to highlight Mental Health Awareness Month, Burkhardt explains that mental health is a broad category, including depression, anxiety and trauma, as well as ADHD, autism and intellectual and cognitive disabilities.
Supplements are common these days and include vitamins, minerals and herbal products. Many people take supplements to ensure that they are getting enough nutrients to improve or maintain their health. Cherie Simpson, a registered dietitian with the UA Student Health Center and Pharmacy, says supplements can cause side effects if taken at high doses. She also says supplements shouldn’t take the place of the variety of foods important to healthy eating.
Anyone who engages in unsafe sex could be exposed to HIV infection. Dr. Pamela Payne-Foster, a preventive medicine physician with UA’s College of Community Health Sciences, says people concerned about possible exposure to HIV should get tested right away and, if positive, start taking HIV medicine. She says the medication reduces the body’s HIV viral load, which keeps the immune system working and prevents illness – and an undetectable viral load can prevent transmission of HIV to others.
Most cervical cancers are associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. Immunization with the HPV vaccine can help prevent cervical cancer and other cancers caused by the virus. Dr. Mallory Scogin, an obstetrician-gynecologist with University Medical Center, tells us what we need to know about HPV and the HPV vaccine.
University Medical Center provides primary care and other health care services from six locations in West Alabama – Tuscaloosa, Northport, Demopolis, Fayette, Carrollton and Livingston. Dr. Richard Friend, dean of The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences, which operates UMC, said clinics in Demopolis, Fayette, Carrollton and Livingston were opened to provide needed health care to these rural communities.
Coroners in rural Alabama communities often lack the resources they need to conduct death investigations. The University of Alabama is working to help, with a new National Center on Forensics. Dr. John Higginbotham, a professor of community medicine and population health with UA’s College of Community Health Sciences and who is leading the center’s efforts, explains.
Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash and it can occur anywhere on the body. It isn’t life-threatening, but it can be very painful. Dr. Jane Weida, a family medicine physician at University Medical Center, says getting the shingles vaccine can help lower your risk of getting shingles.
Long-acting reversible contraception is an effective form of reversible birth control that can prevent pregnancy for several years, and that can be removed by a physician if you decide to become pregnant. Dr. Mallory Scogin, an obstetrician-gynecologist at University Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, said there are two types of LARCs – IUDs and implants – and she explains how they work. She also stresses the importance of getting vaccinated against HPV to help prevent cervical and other cancers caused by the human papillomavirus.
Fad diets are appealing because they promise quick weight loss and better health. But there is often a lack of scientific evidence to support these claims. And because some fad diets cut out key foods and food groups, they can cause dehydration, weakness and fatigue, and nausea and headaches. Cherie Simpson, a registered dietitian at The University of Alabama Student Health Center and Pharmacy, explains.
Childhood obesity is a serious medical condition. It is particularly troubling because those extra pounds can put children on a path to health problems once considered adult problems – diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Dr. Shawn Cecil, a pediatrician at University Medical Center, talks about childhood obesity and explains that treating and preventing this condition can help protect your child’s health now and in the future.
Social workers often practice in medical and other health-care facilities. University Medical Center has provided social work services to patients for more than two decades. Dr. Robert McKinney, assistant professor of social work and director of UMC’s Office of Case Management and Social Services, talks about the services that UMC social workers provide.
Athletes are often seen by the public as fierce competitors who push past adversity in the pursuit of victory. But they are also people and as such are not immune to the pressures and stresses of life. Dr. Ray Stewart, a sports medicine physician with University Medical Center and a team physician with The University of Alabama Athletic Department, talks about athletes and mental health.
Digital devices can help provide better care to patients because they monitor vital signs and other factors in real-time. These devices can help patients manage diabetes, high blood pressure and other chronic conditions. University Medical Center in Tuscaloosa has partnered with Ceras Health and will soon make digital devices available to patients recently released from the hospital. Dr. Richard Friend, dean of The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences, which operates University Medical Center, explains.
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event, like an accident, crime or natural disaster. Initial reactions can include exhaustion, sadness and anxiety. Trauma can also make people more vulnerable to developing mental health problems. Dr. Jamie Reeves, a psychiatrist with University Medical Center, explains more about trauma.
Sports medicine physicians provide comprehensive medical care for athletes, sports teams and active individuals looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. University Medical Center provides sports medicine care at its Dr. Bill deShazo Sports Medicine Center in Tuscaloosa, and the physicians who practice there also care for University of Alabama athletes. Dr. Ray Stewart, director of the Sports Medicine Center, talks about the work of sports medicine physicians.
Too often, health care is one size fits all. But treatments for the “average” patient may not work well for individuals. Dr. John C. Higginbotham, professor of community medicine and population health with the UA College of Community Health Sciences and director of UA’s Institute for Rural Health Research, says the national All of Us Research project is working to change that. He explains that All of Us is collecting health information from one million people across the U.S. to build a diverse database and create opportunities to learn which treatments work best for people of different backgrounds.
Eating disorders can affect people of all ages, genders, body weights and racial and ethnic backgrounds. They are serious and can sometimes be fatal. Researchers are finding that eating disorders are caused by a complex interaction of biological, behavioral and social factors. Cherie Simpson, a registered dietitian who cares for patients at The University of Alabama Student Health Center and Pharmacy, explains.
Hospitalists are doctors who practice in hospitals, providing comprehensive medical care to hospitalized patients. University Medical Center operates Capstone Hospitalist Group, whose physicians care for patients at DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa and Northport Medical Center. Dr. Richard Friend, dean of The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences, which operates UMC, talks about the work hospitalists do and how they can improve care for hospitalized patients.
More than 6 million adults in the United States suffer from Alzeheimer’s disease. Dr. John Burkhardt, a clinical psychologist at University Medical Center, talks about some of the early symptoms.
University Medical Center has relocated and expanded its Northport clinic. Dr. Richard Friend, dean of UA’s College of Community Health Sciences, which operates UMC, says the larger clinic will provide more health-care services and access to residents of Northport and neighboring communities.
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. Too much glucose in your bloodstream can damage your body’s tissues and organs and can be life-threatening over time. Suzanne Henson, a registered dietitian who cares for patients at University Medical Center, talks about ways to recognize – and mitigate – diabetes.
Until recently, COVID-19 vaccines have targeted the original COVID-19 strain, but the relatively new bivalent vaccine provides protection against both the original strain and the newer Omicron. Dr. Tom Weida, chief medical officer of University Medical Center, explains.
The holiday season is filled with images of people being with family and friends and having fun at parties and celebrations. But for some, holidays can bring depression. Dr. John Burkhardt, a clinical psychologist at University Medical Center, explains that disagreements with family members, or missing a deceased loved one, are common themes among patients he treats for depression during the holidays.
The College of Community Health Sciences celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2022. CCHS operates University Medical Center, which opened just a few years after the College’s founding. Dr. Richard Friend, dean of CCHS, says UMC has grown to six locations in West Alabama and more than 150,000 annual patient visits.
Flu cases are high in Alabama, but there are precautions you can take to protect yourself and your family. Dr. Tom Weida, a family medicine physician at University Medical Center and UMC’s chief medical officer, explains.
Rural hospitals provide essential health care to rural communities. When they close, residents have to travel farther for health care. Dr. Catherine Lavender is a family medicine physician and obstetrician at University Medical Center who also cares for patients at the center’s new clinic in Carrollton, Alabama. She explains why this access to care is so important.
Every year, thousands of people in the U.S. get sick with the flu. But flu is not just a bad cold; it can be deadly. Dr. Tom Weida, chief medical officer of University Medical Center, says now is the time to get a flu shot.
Prenatal care is important for expectant mothers, but in some rural communities, that care can be hard to find. University Medical Center opened a clinic in Fayette, Alabama, to bring more prenatal care service to patients there.
Stress. Boredom. Loneliness. These emotions can sometimes cause people to eat, even when they’re not hungry. They’re called food triggers. Suzanne Henson, a registered dietitian at University Medical Center, talks about food triggers and ways to overcome them.
At the beginning of COVID-19, one-third of U.S. adults reported that the pandemic was impacting their mental health. By the end of 2020, more than 50% did. Contracting COVID, fear of family members getting sick and home schooling children topped the list. Increased rates of anxiety, depression and loneliness were also factors. Dr. Marisa Giggie, a psychiatrist at University Medical Center, talks about the impact COVID has had on adult mental health.
One of the groups suffering most from the COVID pandemic is millennials. Many were just coming of age when the 2008 Great Recession hit, entering a tight job market and burdened with student debt. Now, COVID is proving to be another setback. Studies show millennials are anxious about jobs, paying the rent and their future, and they miss social interactions. Dr. James Reeves, a psychiatrist at University Medical Center, talks about the tough spot millennials are in.
COVID has certainly had an impact on children’s mental health. Predictability is a stabilizing force for children, but that’s been disrupted during the pandemic. Dr. Marisa Giggie, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at University Medical Center, explains that the isolation and uncertainty caused by COVID has left children with a tough time coping emotionally.
Today we are talking about the importance of exercise with Dr. Raheem Paxton associate professor of community medicine and population health. Let’s listen as Dr. Paxton discusses the benefits of regular exercise and how it can improve your quality of life.
As we age our fitness routines should change. Younger adults might focus on strength and endurance, but older adults need to consider exercises that improves their ability to do daily activities and to prevent falls.
Dr. Joy Bradley assistant professor of community medicine and population health says sex education can provide adolescents with knowledge about avoiding sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancy, but she says it’s important that these classes are taught by qualified instructors.
Expectant black mothers are more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women, levels of education and income are not necessarily protective factors. Today we hear from Dr. Joy Bradley assistant professor of community medicine and population health.
Nutrition is important for pregnant women. Unfortunately, many expectant mothers live in food deserts.
COVID-19 has significantly impacted the elderly, from the risk of severe illness to isolation from family and friends. University Medical Center Psychiatrist Dr. James Reeves said those older than 65 are proving resilient amid the pandemic. “When you talk to seniors, when you do these studies you find that they have dealt with much more stress than any other age group combined,” Reeves said. “If you think about the wars and recessions this country has been through in the last 70 years, plus their own personal crises dealing with health issues, family issues or things.”
Now that COVID-19 vaccines are more widely available, it’s important that you understand more about them. University Medical Center Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tom Weida said each of the vaccines available have their own safety guidelines, effectiveness and potential side effects. “I would say most who are gonna get the vaccine don’t really have any side effects,” Weida said. “Some folks may feel flu-like symptoms, maybe get a headache or just aches.”
University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences Professor of Community Medicine and Population Health Dr. Pamela Payne-Foster studies minority health and health disparities. Here, she discusses those disparities and their impact on Alabama’s minority communities. “Even just recognizing that there are racial disparities, we even use the term ‘inequities’ because we want people to think a little deeper than just Black and white differences,” Payne-Foster said. “When I say inequities I want people to think about systems that make people different in this country, so inequities around history, the context of history for African Americans in this country.”
Endometriosis is an often-painful condition in women that occurs when the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. Let’s listen to Dr. John McDonald, an OB/GYN at University Medical Center, as he explains the symptoms and causes of endometriosis.
COVID-19 has impacted almost every aspect of our lives, and pregnancy is no exception. Expecting mothers are wondering if they should get a COVID-19 vaccine. University Medical Center OBGYN Dr. John McDonald said there’s a reason it’s recommended. “It will definitely help if you were exposed to the virus,” McDonald said. “You do not want to be in a situation where you get extremely sick with COVID and you are pregnant.”
We have all been dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic since March of last year. Today we’ll hear from Dr. Tom Weida, Chief Medical Officer of University Medical Center. He will give us an update on where we are now in regard to COVID-19, and what we might expect in the coming months.
Screening tests can prevent illness and disease even before you have symptoms. Some screenings for women’s health include mammograms and PAP smears are done regularly, and University Medical Center OBGYN Dr. John McDonald said he urges women not put off these screenings because of COVID-19. “When COVID first came about in March of this year, we saw a reduction in our clinic of up to 60% to 70% no-show,” he said. “Those rates have primarily gone away now and people are also becoming more comfortable with engaging the health care system.”
Much has changed for those living with acquired immune deficiency syndrome since the first case was reported 30 years ago. Today, those with these syndrome are living longer, healthier lives thanks to medications available and medications that treat the disease. But, there are still too many people getting acquired immune deficiency syndrome and not getting treatment, particularly in the rural, deep south.
If you have Medicare as your insurer, there’s an exciting new opportunity for you to stay healthy. It’s called a Medicare Annual Wellness Exam. University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tom Weida said the exam is a great service for Medicare patients wanting to keep an eye on their health and prevent issues down the road. “(The exam) doesn’t really involve an invasive physical,” Weida said. “It’s really more about the interview process. It’s important to tell (your doctor) about those little things that may be troubling you or bothering you because they may lead to something bigger.”
We’ve all been dealing with COVID-19 since last March. University Medical Center Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tom Weida said things are getting better, but the pandemic is far from over. “We’re going to need to watch the variations, watch for responses to the vaccine,” Weida said. “I’ve seen a few patients who actually get COVID more than once.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly been stressful. Fear and anxiety about the virus, and the future, can be overwhelming. And social distancing can make people feel isolated and lonely. Today we’ll hear from Dr. Marth Crowther, a psychologist at University Medical Center. She talks about a new service for faculty and staff of The University of Alabama – and their families – that can help.
Women strive for optimal health during pregnancy, but it’s important that they’re healthy even before they get pregnant. University Medical Center Family Medicine Obstetrician Dr. Connie Leeper said a considerable amount of development takes place in the first weeks of pregnancy, often before women even know they’re pregnant. “I usually recommend that if they are even thinking about having a baby they should just go ahead and be on a vitamin that has folic acid,” Leeper said.
Breast cancer is common among American women, but is often easily treatable if discovered early. University Medical Center OB/GYN Dr. John McDonald said it’s important to stay aware of breast cancer risk factors and symptoms, as well as keeping up with the necessary screenings. “By the time you reach age 50 you have a one in eight chance of developing breast cancer if you are a woman,” McDonald said. “However, in the past 20 to 30 years our treatments and detection rates have gotten way better.”
Family medicine physicians often choose to incorporate obstetrics into their practice to better serve their patients. This is particularly helpful for patients in rural and underserved areas, where the nearest obstetrician might be counties away. Dr. Connie Leeper is a family medicine obstetrician at University Medical Center. She says family medicine obstetricians can also provide continuity of care by caring for women before they are mothers, during their pregnancies and deliveries, and can care for their babies.
If you’re like many people, you’ve had the same doctor for years. But what do you do when that doctor you’ve formed a meaningful bond with announces their retirement? University Medical Center Family Medicine Physician Dr. Jane Weida said finding a new doctor can be tough, but usually you won’t have to look far.
The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected many people’s mental health. As the pandemic wears on, it’s likely those mental health burdens will increase as measures taken to slow the virus’ spread such as social distancing and business and school closures lead to greatrer isolation. Dr. Martha Crowther, a practicing psychologist at University Medical Center said it’s important to be aware of the impact to mental health as COVID-19 continues. “People are feeling very anxious often, stressed out and uncertain,” Crowther said. “I was trying to find the right word to describe this, but initially when the pandemic first happened, people were just caught off guard.”
You may not be familiar with hospitalists, but these medical professionals help ensure your health is top priority as you or a loved one transitions from a primary care doctor into a hospital setting. Dr. Robert Shepard from the University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences said a hospitalist is a physician who’s dedicated to taking care of patients who are in a hospital. “In other words they don’t tend to have an office practice,” Shepard said.
High blood pressure is a common health condition with nearly half of adults diagnosed with hypertension. High blood pressure puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke. University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences Associate Professor of Community medicine Dr. Louanne Friend conducts research into high blood pressure. Her work has spawned the Hype app patients can use to track their blood pressure and other health indicators.
Eating vegetables is an important part of maintaining good health. They’re low in fat and calories, and a a great source of nutrients including vitamins, fiber and potassium. With the rise of farmers markets, it’s easier than ever to find locally grown fresh vegetables. But have you ever wondered about the best way to clean all that fresh produce?
More and more people are buying frozen foods with the coronavirus keeping families at home and shopping trips at a minimum. Recent surveys show consumers are relying more on frozen food because of a longer shelf life and the ability to stock up. University Medical Center Registered Dietician Susanne Hansen said frozen foods are always great because they’re easy to prepare, inexpensive and usually healthy.
Meat is an important source of protein and iron, but there have been times during the COVID-19 pandemic where meat processing plants were temporarily closed and meat may not have been as readily available. University Medical Center Registered Dietician Suzanne Hansen said there are easy ways you can incorporate protein and iron into your diet without meat. “One of my favorite meals is to take black beans and put them into a quesadilla with some leftover veggies,” she said.
Summer is a brilliant time for outdoor picnics and barbecues, but it also brings a potential for food poisoning if those outdoor treats aren’t kept at a safe temperature. University Medical Center Dietician Suzanne Henson said there are several ways you can keep potential problems at bay. “Typically it’s the proteins,” Henson said. “So your poultry, your meat, things like fish are certainly concerns.”
Every year, thousands of adults in the U.S. become seriously ill and are hospitalized because of preventable diseases. Shingles, pneumonia and the flu are some of the top illnesses that can be prevented with vaccines. University Medical Center Family Physician Dr. Jane Weida said vaccines are some of the most convenient and safest preventive care measures available.
As we get closer to the start of the school year, children and their parents might be thinking about sports even in the midst of COVID-19. How can youth sports organizations protect players from the virus and what can players do to protect themselves and their teammates? University Medical Center Sports Medicine Physician Dr. Brett Bentley said you can cut down on the chances of spreading or catching COVID-19 with some simple tips. “If you’re unwell, stay home,” Bentley said. “Secondly, wash your hands frequently and throughout the day.”
Does social media influence what we eat? Recent research on the subject shows our online social circles may implicitly influence our eating habits. One study found that college students ate more fruits and vegetables, or indulged in more junk food, if they perceived that their social media peers did. Let’s hear more about this from Suzanne Henson, a registered dietitian at University Medical Center.
Poor sleep is a common problem, with 25% of adults saying they often don’t get a good night’s rest. But sleep is critical for good health, and not getting enough puts you at risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes. Dr. Brittany Anderson is a family medicine physician at University Medical Center who regularly talks with her patients about sleep.
There are plenty of social media experiences out there today, but studies show apps like Instagram and TikTok can take a toll on the mental health of teens. Social media can make people feel insecure about their status, and it’s also been linked to body image concerns. University Medical Center Psychiatrist Dr. Marissa Gigi specializes in adolescents, and says that while social media can be fun, many teens are too invested.
For many women, the menstrual cycle is something to dread because of the pain and discomfort. University Medical Center OBGYN Dr. Cecily Collins said women should be aware in any potential changes in those patterns. “I would not really say it’s a pain threshold tolerance issue for most women,” Collins said. “It’s different or it’s worsening. Menstrual cramps are there. They’re present and they’re real even if you don’t have any issues. But if it’s to the point that you have to come see me as your physician it’s probably not just something in your head.”
For many young folks, going to the doctor is something you only do when you’re sick. Dr. Tiffany Thomas, a faculty member at University Medical Center, said it’s important everyone get regular checkups. “High blood pressure is one that we commonly think of, diabetes is also another,” Thomas said. “It’s important to get treatments early. That really helps prevent complications.”
People are carrying a good bit of stress with them these days, and that can cause real health concerns. University Medical Center Director of Case Management and Social Services Dr. Bob McKinney offered some tips for coping with all the stressful news coming in each and every day. “One thing that I would encourage people to do is actively seek out sources for good news, not just whatever somebody is feeding you,” McKinney said. “But in addition to that, a lot of national news in the United States is very divisive. Distance gives perspective, so I would encourage people to at least explore international news sources.”
ou’ve likely heard of lupus, but did you know it’s a difficult disease to diagnose? University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences Department of Community Medicine and Population Health Faculty Member Dr. Pamela Payne Foster said lupus is something many people suffer with for some time before they’re properly diagnosed. Women of color are often worst affected by a delayed diagnoses, she said.
The U.S. Census Bureau tells us that by the year 2030, we’ll have more patients over 65 than we do children. Dr. Anne Hallie-Tierney is the geriatrician at University Medical Center. Here’s what happens at your first visit to a geriatrician. “A geriatrician is, in the simplest terms, someone who takes care of older adults,” Hallie-Tierney said. “What I usually tell people is that there are two ways to be old.”
Eating a healthy diet doesn’t always have to be expensive. University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences faculty member and Registered Dietician Suzanne Henson said it’s not complicated to live healthy within a budget. “There are foods on those shelves that are cost effective, and so hopefully we can fight that myth that eating healthy is expensive,” Henson said.
At one time or another we’ve all wanted to shed a few pounds. University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences faculty member and registered dietician Suzanne Henson discusses how you can avoid fad diets and stay on track with your weight loss goals. “In the two decades I’ve been working in this field, the thing that will always work is balance and not eliminating any one food group,” Henson said. Some people may need to shift their eating habits a little more toward new food groups, like eating more vegetables.
If you receive medical care through Medicare, you’ll want to know about an opportunity that is available to you: a Medicare wellness visit. These visits are different from regular physicals but are equally useful. University Medical Center Chief Medical Officer Dr. Tom Weida said Medicare wellness visits are important for your health. “For Medicare patients, there’s something known as an annual wellness visit,” Weida said. “Basically, when you first get into Medicare that first year, you can get a ‘Welcome to Medicare’ visit, and then after that an annual Medicare wellness visit. The purpose of that is to really sort of develop a preventative care plan for each individual so that they stay healthy, stay out of the hospital and be as healthy as they can.”
We’re all too hard on ourselves regarding our weight, height and appearance sometimes. Registerd Dietician and Univerisity of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences Faculty Member Suzanne Henson said body shaming can ruin someone’s self-esteem, but it can lead to lifelong problems for children. “I truly get concerned working with families, whether there’s a parent and a child or a caregiver who is taking care of children who criticize that child’s weight,” Henson said. “They may not have poor intentions, but my fear is that you can set up a lifelong feeling of shame about your body and preoccupation with dieting that will follow you lifelong.”
Yoga has been around for centuries but researchers were never sure of its benefits. Dr. Bob McKinney with the University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences said the benefits all depend on how you’re using yoga. “You can have a very aggressive, active class in which you’re working and sweating and really changing some things about your body or you can have a nice mellow relaxing class,” McKinney said. “That’s still a yoga experience, and it gives you a very different awareness of yourself.
Endocrinologists are doctors who specialize in glands and the hormones they make, meaning they most commonly treat diseases like diabetes, high cholesterol or blood pressure, thyroid diseases or hormonal issues. Dr. Robert Osburn is an endocrinologist who recently joined the University of Alabama’s College of Community Health Sciences, and he says his specialty gets more important for potential patients as they age. “An endocrine organ is a gland in the body that secretes a substance into the blood that affects something somewhere else in the body,” Osburn said.
A hospitalist is a doctor who practices in the hospital, caring for patients from the time they are admitted to the time they’re discharged. Hospitalist services are common across the country, and hospital medicine is now one of the country’s larges medical specialties. Univesrsity Hospitalist Group was established by University Medical Center in partnership with DCH Regional Medical Center.
Yoga isn’t just for people looking for relaxation in their life, it’s also beneficial for anyone suffering from physical or mental ailments. Dr. Bob McKinney with the University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences said evidence supports the idea that yoga may be beneficial for people with arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome or chronic back pain, along with other illnesses like irritable bowel syndrome. “There’s plenty of evidence to suggest that yoga is beneficial for those folks,” he said. “But it can also be beneficial for people who are dealing with various mental health diagnoses.”
Patients aren’t one size fits all. That’s why the National Institute of Health is conducting a large research project that will hopefully accelerate precision medicine. Dr. John Higgenbotham, an epidemiologist and the chair of the University of Alabama’s College of Community Health Sciences said precision medicine helps focus on a person’s individual health needs, and the college is recruiting patients into the study by using their mobile outreach units. “We work with the University Medical Center to help us recruit people to participate, but we also have a mobile unit that we’re really excited about,” Higgenbotham said. “This is a 40-foot bus that has two exam rooms, so we can actually take our clinic out into rural areas and recruit people there to participate.”
In the United States, there are more than 13,000 cases of cervical cancer every year. Most people don’t know that cervical cancer can be prevented. University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences Interim Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology Dr. John McDonald said cervical cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in the world. “It is not the most common cancer in the United States because we have an effective screening test called the Pap smear that was developed many years ago,” McDonald said. “The rates of cervical cancer in the United States have dropped dramatically since the implementation of the annual Pap smear.”
One of the biggest challenges we have in rural Alabama is good access to maternal prenatal care. Barbara Jurnegon is a nurse practitioner who is working with University of Alabama researchers on delivering that care in the home. “Our initial plan will actually be visiting moms in their third trimester in the last part of their pregnancy, and we will come in and develop a plan with the nurse, which is me, the obstetrician and the mom,” she said.
One of the most challenging problems in rural Alabama today is the lack of access for maternal care, particularly for those living in under-served areas. Dr. Mercedes Morales is an assistant professor at the University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences. She said there’s an innovative research project that involves telemedicine and team-based care to ensure the best outcomes for women in under-served locations.
Every year, millions of people in the U.S. wind up sick from the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that last year, 34,000 Americans died from the flu. This year, health experts worry about an overlap of flu and COVID-19, and the potential burden to people and our health care system. University Medical Center Family Medicine Physician Dr. Jennifer Clem said protecting yourself from the flu has never been more important.
Dr. Brittney Anderson is a family medicine physician at University Medical Center in Demopolis, where she cares for patients in a region of the state known as the Black Belt. She has cared for patients with COVID-19 who, because of their underlying health conditions, often experience more adverse outcomes from the virus. Those underlying conditions are the result of a critical shortage of health care in the Black Belt.
Dr. Thad Ulzen is a child and adolescent psychiatrist at University Medical Center. He is also working to enhance care and services provided by Brewer-Porch Children’s Center in Tuscaloosa, which became part of The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences in October 2020. Brewer-Porch provides behavioral health care for children and adolescents locally and from across Alabama. Ulzen talks about the care currently provided at Brewer-Porch and how care and other services will be expanded in the future.
