Myths Can Have a Happy Ending

One of the main reasons I have continued Closing the Gap in Health Care is to decrease the myths and untruths in the African American and underserved communities. 

One myth that I do not often hear is placing moss in your shoes to control hypertension. 

The lady who introduced me to this myth is alive, very well, and in her late 70s. Several years ago, after a stay in intensive care, she longer requires medications for hypertension.  We had a great laugh as we discussed when we met and how she listened to friends and family about the best way to take care of her hypertension.

I am still amazed at the myths to which black people adhere regarding health care. 

Recently, it was reported that many patients are augmenting their chemotherapy for cancer with vitamins and herbal medications.  These are unproven and have been shown to decrease the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation.