Salud Talks

Last week, we discussed how high levels of stress could influence the development of cancer. This week, we explore another risk factor in cancer development — genetics. A person’s family or place of origin, even dating back years and years, can influence that individual’s risk for certain types of cancers.

Stress can lead to serious health complications, according to Cathy Samayoa, an adjunct assistant professor at San Francisco State University. She and Dr. Daniel C Hughes with the Institute for Health Promotions Research join Salud Talks to discuss their research concerning connections between stress and cancer development.

Statistically, Latinos and people of color are vastly underrepresented in these kinds of exploratory efforts. This matters as the knowledge gained and disseminated in these studies could influence whether or not a patient receives adequate care.

As the coronavirus pandemic sweeps throughout the US, one personal and political issue is taking center stage for most: the cost of and access to quality healthcare. Statistically, Latinos and other disadvantaged groups experience some of the worst outcomes of those concerns. Moreover, experts say it will only get worse as this outbreak endures.

Unique stressors, such as sheltering in place the time or experiencing new financial struggles, are causing issues in most homes throughout the U.S. While these problems might not be resolved in the near future, as civic and business leaders deal with the consequences of the outbreak, it is essential that Latinos and all Americans find ways to battle back against these mental health complications.

The coronavirus outbreak has caused severe changes to the fabric of our society. One issue that is at the forefront of many healthcare providers’ minds is something most might not have considered being an issue before: mental health.

Amid a global pandemic, most find themselves inside their homes more than ever. While this is tough for some and easier for others, one thing is apparent: Many are asking some tough questions, including, are the systems that are currently in place operating in the best interest of everyone? In January, we sat down with government officials from ReWorks San Antonio, an agency of the city’s Solid Waste Management Department, that aims to connect businesses to cost-effective recycling solutions and promote those businesses among consumers who value social responsibility.

As COVID-19 continues to dominate headlines, all of us are experiencing new levels of stress and anxiety. With that in mind, public health workers from the Institute for Health Promotion Research share their best practices in how—in the words of another global crisis— they are keeping calm and carrying on.

Have you ever encountered a child in need? While most might think no, experts say that’s likely not the case. Dr. Kathy Fletcher, the President and CEO of Voices for Children of San Antonio, and State Representative of Texas’ 124 district, Ina Minjarez, join Salud Talks to discuss their work with children in crisis, and, what we all can do to provide our community’s children with a brighter future.

Food insecurity is an issue gripping American families—including those in the Latino community—across the country. Dwayne Wharton, an Independent Consultant with Dwayne Wharton & Partners and the former Director Of External Affairs at The Food Trust, joins Salud Talks to discuss this issue and what progress is needed to ensure Latinos and all Americans have access to healthy foods.