What is a PAP Smear? The PAP smear is a simple test that takes only a few minutes to perform. It is a life-saving evaluation that detects early changes in the cervix long before symptoms appear. For women of all ages, understanding the purpose of Pap smears and staying up to date on screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer. A Pap smear examines cells from the cervix to identify abnormalities that could signal future problems, including precancero

Five practical ways to protect yourself against Influenza A.

There’s something powerful about the first days of a new year. It is an opportunity to reset. We pause, breathe, and look ahead with a rare blend of honesty and hope. It’s a moment that invites us to ask questions and make bold proclamations. This year, let’s refuse to shrink our dreams to fit our comfort zones. Let’s stop waiting for the “right time,” the “perfect plan,” or the “ideal circumstances.” Progress has never required perfection—only intention, courage, and the wil

The holiday season is a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness. For Black women, it’s an opportunity to celebrate our rich heritage, create lasting memories, and strengthen the bonds with our loved ones. Here’s how to create meaningful holiday traditions that honor your culture and bring your family closer together. 1. Embrace Cultural Heritage Incorporate elements of African and African American culture into your holiday celebrations. This may include traditional foods, m

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? As the days grow shorter and the weather becomes colder, many people experience mood changes that can affect their daily lives. Seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a form of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months. While it's common to feel a bit down during the darker months, SAD is more than just the “winter blues”—it can significantly impact your emotional and physica

The weather is colder, and our days are shorter. It is officially flu season. While self-care often means cozy blankets, warm drinks, and a good book, it’s also about making proactive decisions that protect ourselves and our communities.

December is Learn a New Language Month! It’s the perfect opportunity to embark on a journey that extends far beyond vocabulary and grammar. Learning a new language is a form of self-care that nurtures your mind, boosts your confidence, and opens doors to new worlds. Challenging your brain with new sounds, structures, and expressions enhances memory, sharpens cognitive skills, and can even delay age-related mental decline. The process encourages mindfulness by drawing your att

Antibiotics are powerful medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. They work by either killing bacteria or stopping them from multiplying, which helps your body’s natural defenses eliminate the infection. Common bacterial infections that antibiotics can treat include strep throat, urinary tract infections, and certain types of pneumonia. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses such as the common cold, flu, or most sore throats. Using antibiotics when they a

What is COPD? Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that makes breathing increasingly difficult. It is most often caused by long-term exposure to irritants, especially cigarette smoke, which is the leading risk factor. COPD is a significant public health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide, and it often goes undiagnosed until symptoms become severe. The main symptoms of COPD include persistent cough (often with mucus producti

Carbohydrates are a primary source of energy in our diets, but not all carbs are created equally. Consuming too many can have significant health consequences—particularly regarding diabetes.

In today’s fast-paced world, self-care is often perceived as indulging in bubble baths or spa days. While relaxing, true self-care goes deeper, centering on emotional wellness. Emotional wellness underpins health and well-being, enabling us to manage stress, foster meaningful relationships, and live with resilience and joy. Emotional wellness means understanding, managing, and expressing emotions in healthy ways. It involves recognizing feelings, accepting them without judgme

Health literacy is the ability to obtain, understand, and use health information to make informed decisions about one’s well-being.

Breast cancer is a significant health concern for women in the United States, but the impact is especially severe for Black women.

Domestic violence is a widespread issue affecting millions across the United States; however, African American women experience it at disproportionately higher rates

What is Cholesterol? Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of the body. It is essential for producing hormones,...

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition that affects the prostate gland in men as they age.

Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month September is Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month. As a Black woman, I know firsthand the strength,...

Suicide Awareness Resources and the importance of self-care.

The most meaningful experiences often come not from monumental milestones but from the small moments that fill our days—a shared laugh, a favorite song, or a call from an old friend.

The benefits of eye exams include detecting early signs of eye diseases and maintaining both clear vision and long-term eye health.