April 2025 Health Tip

by J. Renee Livsey |  April 1, 2025

 
There are still health conditions that affect us more than other races. Sometimes health education can seem redundant, but continuing to educate ourselves can help improve our overall health.
 
There are five major health issues in the Black community:
Hypertension, Diabetes, kidney failure, cancers especially breast and prostate, Obesity, and mental health issues are very prevalent in our community.

Psalm 139:14 highlights the intentional design of the human body and encourages us to appreciate it.  We must be vigilant about our health. Preventive self-care is one way to stay healthier.  We must get to know our bodies by being in tuned to changes that alert us that something is wrong. A new pain, swelling, rash, change in stool or urine appearance – all of these symptoms must be addressed without delay. Early detection allows timely intervention, and this can improve chances for a successful outcome, especially with conditions like cancer.
 
Fitness, along with proper nutrition, is essential in manifesting lifestyle changes. Nowadays, you might hear doctors recommending exercise as part of treatment. For something like hypertension, a good doctor will include exercise in the plan, not just medication. Years ago, it was all about the meds, but now it’s more holistic - with physical, mental, and nutritional health all working together.
 
So, let’s be an active participant in our health. Write it down; seeing our goals on paper makes a huge difference. Keep a food diary and track your body measurements. This helps us understand where changes need to be made and whether your habits align with your goals. Start small, like losing 2 to 5 pounds instead of aiming for 30 in two months. Just like our prayer life or spiritual growth, daily engagement builds consistency. We can take charge of our health journey with small steps, consistency, and the right mindset.