Know Your Numbers DC
A Black Men's Health Project in partnership with the Anacostia Coordinating Council and Martha's Table
Empowering Black Men's Health
April is National Minority Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of improving the health of racial and ethnic minority communities and reducing health disparities. The National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS) presents a ...
Today, as I celebrate my 69th birthday, I am filled with gratitude and reflection. Back in April 2023, I was confronted with a life-changing diagnosis: stage 3 prostate cancer, with a PSA of 27 and a Gleason score of 4+3. Faced with this challenge, I ...
By Dave Davies
In 2020, the overall life expectancy in the U.S. dropped by 1.5 years, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But the reduction wasn't shared equally among the general population; Native American people lost an ...
By Matthew McClure August 7, 2024
What is prostate cancer? In men, the prostate is a gland located underneath the bladder and in front of the seminal vesicles. The urethra passes through the prostate, which adds fluid to ejaculate and helps move it out ...
Embark on a transformative journey with Know Your Numbers DC, your trusted partner in men's health. Our mission goes beyond routine screenings; we are dedicated to empowering individuals with knowledge, fostering community engagement, and celebrating health victories.
It's time to prioritize your health, and we invite you to explore the wealth of resources and support available at Know Your Numbers DC.
EVENTS
KYNDC TIMES
LAMONT'S THOUGHTS
Exercise plays a crucial role in the recovery and management of prostate cancer. Here are some key points on the importance of exercise in prostate cancer recovery:
1. Improved physical fitness: Regular exercise can help improve physical fitness, strength, and endurance, which are important for overall health and well-being, especially during and aCer cancer treatment.
2. Managing side effects: Prostate cancer treatments such as surgery, radiaHon therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy can cause side effects like faHgue, muscle weakness,
weight gain, and decreased bone density. Exercise can help manage these side effects by improving energy levels, muscle strength, and bone health.
3. BoosHng immune funcHon: Exercise has been shown to boost the immune system, which can be helpful for individuals recovering from cancer treatment by reducing the risk of infecHons and promoHng overall health.
4. Mental health benefits: Prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment can be emoHonally challenging. Exercise has been shown to improve mood, reduce
anxiety and depression, and enhance overall quality of life.
5. Weight management: Many prostate cancer survivors may experience weight gain during treatment due to various factors. Regular exercise can help manage weight, reduce body fat, and improve overall body composiHon.
6. Reducing the risk of cancer recurrence: Some studies suggest that regular physical acHvity may help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence in prostate cancer survivors. Exercise may have anH-inflammatory and anH-
cancer effects that can potenHally lower the risk of cancer returning.
7. Social support: ParHcipaHng in group exercise programs or physical acHvity with others can provide social support and a sense of community, which can be beneficial for mental and emoHonal well-being during the recovery process.
It is important for individuals with prostate cancer to consult their healthcare team before starHng an exercise program to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for their individual situaHon. A qualified exercise specialist or physical therapist
may also help develop a personalized exercise plan tailored to the individual's needs and abiliHes.
starting a men’s health group in your church or civic organization
KYNDC sample curriculum outline for a men's health support group focusing
on prostate cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and other relevant health issues
affecting African American men:
Session 1: Introduction to Men's Health and Disparities
- Overview of men's health issues in the African American community
- Discussion on the disparities in health outcomes among African American
men
- Importance of early detection and prevention strategies
Session 2: Understanding Prostate Cancer
- Overview of prostate cancer, risk factors, and symptoms
- Screening guidelines and the importance of early detection
- Treatment options for prostate cancer, including surgery, radiation, and
hormone therapy
Session 3: Managing Diabetes
- Overview of diabetes and its impact on African American men
- Importance of blood sugar control and lifestyle modifications
- Strategies for managing diabetes through diet, exercise, and medication
Session 4: Heart Health and Cardiovascular Disease
- Understanding heart disease risk factors and symptoms
- Importance of maintaining a healthy heart through diet, exercise, and
stress management- Overview of treatment options for heart disease, including medications and
surgical interventions
Session 5: Mental Health and Well-Being
- Discussion on the impact of mental health on overall well-being
- Strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression
- Importance of seeking help and support for mental health concerns
Session 6: Nutrition and Healthy Eating
- Importance of a healthy diet in preventing chronic diseases
- Overview of recommended dietary guidelines for African American men
- Tips for incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean
proteins into daily meals
Session 7: Physical Activity and Exercise
- Benefits of regular physical activity for overall health
- Types of exercises recommended for African American men
- Strategies for incorporating exercise into a busy lifestyle
Session 8: Substance Abuse and Tobacco Cessation
- Discussion on the impact of substance abuse and tobacco use on health
- Importance of quitting smoking and seeking help for addiction
- Resources and support available for individuals looking to quit smoking or
substance abuse
Session 9: Preventive Health Screenings
- Overview of recommended health screenings for African American men
- Importance of regular check-ups and early detection of health conditions
- Discussion on barriers to accessing healthcare and how to overcome them
Session 10: Wrap-Up and Action Planning
- Review of key learnings from the support group sessions
- Development of individual action plans for maintaining good health- Resources and support available for ongoing health management and
education
This sample curriculum provides a comprehensive overview of key men's
health issues affecting African American men, emphasizing prevention, early
detection, treatment options, and lifestyle changes to promote overall well-
being and reduce health disparities within the community. Feel free to use it
and make changes to fit your particular needs.
for more information contact KYNdc.com or call Lamont Mitchell at 2023902517