Dr. Bell explains that the diagnostic threshold for hypertension has changed to 120/80, and both the systolic (top number) and diastolic (bottom number) readings are crucial.
For Men
Health advice tailored for men, addressing specific concerns and promoting overall well-being.
Salt Substitute
Hypertension is a major health problem that affects young as well as older African-Americans. New studies show that salt substitute is much better than using salt. You can decrease your risk of developing high blood pressure if you use substitute salt.
Young African Americans Pay Attention!
I was recently informed of the passing away of a young fraternity brother from Colorectal Cancer. I don't know details but I am saddened because most of the time these deaths can be prevented yet it is consistent with what medical research is telling about the...
The Annihilation of African American Males
The infractions that the black male is currently experiencing with law enforcement reflect symptoms of a long standing, social phenomenon that has been characteristic in our culture over a hundred years. The annihilation of these males is the new health...
Strokes in Black Men
It was recently reported that Oscar nominated, director John Singleton, experienced a stroke that resulted in hospitalization. The CDC reports that strokes occur two times more frequently in African American men than in Caucasian men. My experiences with...
Holiday Illnesses
During the Christmas season, overindulgence of alcoholic beverages is possible. These drinks can wreak havoc on your health and can cause a trip to the ER, result in being admitted to the hospital, and possibly death. The intake of excessive alcohol can cause...
Changing Social Determinants Can Stop Strokes
It is well documented that the social determinants of health play a major role in the health outcome of African Americans and the underserved. Recently, I witnessed this with a young, African American woman, who at age 33, had experienced a massive stroke that...
Move Every Day
It is a heartbreaking experience to see someone, you love, with dementia. I have seen, as a physician, this phenomenon occurs among many patients and recently, personal friends. I am not convinced that black people understand, in many cases, vascular dementia...
You Love Medicine if You Love Life
It is not unusual for some African Americans to fail to seek medical care in a timely fashion, even when needed. Some people continue not to believe in modern medicine and do not get appropriate screening for cancer, take medications as directed, get...
Family Medical History Has New Meaning
Several days ago, one of my loyal patients requested to be seen, urgently, because she was upset that family members would not reveal the cause of death of a middle age family member. A lifelong friend who is battling four different types of cancer told me...
Stress Is Deadly
The medical literature has documented a plethora of information regarding deadly stress affecting our bodies. Many of my patients are telling me about the perils of stress and how it affects their health with headaches, diarrhea, and fatigue. Stress affects...
Facing the End of Life
A reality not discussed by physicians and pastors is how to help people facing and dealing with end of life issues. You may not be aware, but physicians and pastors are not trained to talk with patients as they face death. I gained some insight into this issue...