Learning Hub
🌟 Connecting Generations: Family History and Uterine Fibroids in Black and African American Women
📊 A recent study on Black and African American women found that having a mother with fibroids, especially if diagnosed at a younger age, significantly increases the risk of developing fibroids. This large, ultrasonography-based study also showed that fibroid growth 📈 was faster for those with a maternal history, regardless of the mother’s age at diagnosis.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
🔴 Higher Risk: Women with a mother who had fibroids are more likely to develop them. 👩👧
🔴 Faster Growth: Fibroids tend to grow faster in women whose mothers had fibroids, no matter when their mother was diagnosed. ⏳
🔴 Important Note: When doctors ask about family history of fibroids, it can help them provide better care and support for their patients. 💬❤️
Read more HERE: https://lnkd.in/gW5-HngE
🌟 Exploring the Connection Between Fibroids and Diabetes
A recent study examined how certain health factors might influence the development of uterine fibroids in women as they reach midlife. Researchers followed nearly 2,600 women over 13 years and looked at factors like blood sugar, insulin levels, and diabetes.
Key findings included:
📈 Women with higher insulin levels were more likely to develop fibroids before menopause.
💊 Interestingly, women with diabetes who were on medication (especially metformin) had a lower chance of being diagnosed with fibroids, particularly during perimenopause.
🔑 Key Takeaway: This study suggests that managing insulin resistance might increase the risk of fibroids, while effective diabetes treatment could help lower that risk. Understanding these connections is essential for women’s health as they navigate midlife changes.
Jessica Pettway age 36, Dies of Cervical Cancer After Misdiagnosis
The world has lost a beloved beauty influencer, Jessica Pettway, at the young age of 36. With over 16 million views on YouTube, Jessica touched the lives of many with her infectious personality and genuine warmth.
The news of Jessica's passing comes nearly nine months after she bravely shared her battle with stage 3 cervical cancer in a raw and vulnerable Instagram post. It was a post that shook her followers to the core, revealing the harsh reality of her diagnosis and the uphill battle she faced.
Jessica's journey with cancer began with a misdiagnosis of uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are incredibly common, often causing symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain. Studies have shown that Black women are disproportionately affected by fibroids compared to women of other racial or ethnic groups. Research suggests that by age 35, about 60% of Black women will have fibroids, and by age 50, that number increases to 80%. This misdiagnosis delayed her access to proper treatment and underscored the importance of accurate diagnosis in the face of reproductive health issues.
Despite the challenges she faced, Jessica's spirit remained unbroken. She tackled each day with courage and resilience, never losing sight of the love and support of her family.
In her Instagram posts, Jessica offered glimpses into the harsh realities of her medical journey, from countless hospital stays to the financial strain of treatment. Yet, amidst the hardships, there was an unwavering determination to keep fighting, to hold onto hope even in the darkest of times.
Cervical cancer is a serious health concern, but early detection through regular screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests, can significantly improve outcomes. It is essential for individuals to advocate for themselves and prioritize their reproductive health by seeking medical attention for concerning symptoms and advocating for proper healthcare. If you feel as though your voice is not being heard, I strongly urge you to find another physician who will listen and care for you.
Unfortunately, Jessica’s story is quite common. Although I do not have cervical cancer, I too experienced heavy menstrual bleeding and was diagnosed with many fibroids. I too, like Jessica, had to undergo numerous blood transfusions and almost bled to death. I was lucky enough, after nine months of bleeding, to receive an open myomectomy to remove the fibroids.
This is why I founded Jurnni Health — to prioritize education, raise awareness, and offer support to women navigating similar challenges. Through accessible information, supportive communities, and the sharing of patient stories, we strive to tackle health issues such as uterine fibroids. Jessica's story serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for one another, shedding light on often-overlooked health issues, and cherishing every moment with our loved ones and ourselves.
As we mourn the loss of Jessica Pettway, let us remember her not for the battle she fought, but for the light she brought into the world. Her courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire us all to cling to hope, even in the face of adversity. Rest in peace, Jessica. Your legacy will endure in the hearts of those who loved you.
Canadian Partnership Against Cancer Summit to drive action on elimination of Cervical Cancer
Jurnni Health had the opportunity to attend the Pan-Canadian Summit on the Elimination of Cervical Cancer.
Here are some of our key takeaways:
• Each year over 1,300 people in Canada are diagnosed with cervical cancer and more than 400 die from this largely preventable disease.
• Cervical cancer is nearly always caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection that is preventable through immunization. Cervical cancer can be prevented and more effectively treated if it is caught early enough, and HPV primary screening is more effective than the Pap test in doing so.
• November 17 marks the Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action and the third anniversary of the launch of the World Health Organization’s goal to eliminate cervical cancer worldwide this century. Canada has committed to reaching that goal by 2040, and the Action Plan for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer outlines the priorities, targets and actions needed to get there.
• Data and research play critical roles in advancing the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control. When healthcare professionals, researchers and policymakers have access to high-quality information, they can work together to improve cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment and the patient experience – and ultimately reduce the burden of this disease.
January is not only the beginning of a new year but also a significant month dedicated to raising awareness about cervical health. Cervical Health Awareness Month aims to educate individuals about the importance of cervical health, encourage regular screenings, and empower women to take control of their well-being.
Cervical Health Awareness Month is a crucial time to reflect on the significance of maintaining cervical health and taking proactive steps toward well-being. By understanding the importance of regular screenings, embracing healthy habits, and advocating for HPV vaccination, individuals can play an active role in preventing and addressing cervical health issues. Let us use this month as a reminder to prioritize our health and empower others to do the same, contributing to a healthier and more informed community.
Read more about the Action Plan for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer HERE
