Protecting Lives: Cervical Cancer Awareness and Prevention January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month—a time to educate, empower, and take action to prevent this highly treatable disease. While cervical cancer is preventable through vaccination and routine screenings, disparities in access to care mean that not everyone benefits equally. At Marin City Health and Wellness Center, we’re committed to raising awareness, providing resources, and ensuring that life-saving screenings are accessible to those who otherwise lack access. Understanding Cervical Cancer: National and Local Perspectives In 2024, cervical cancer affected close to 14,000 people in the United States, with over 4,000 deaths each year. In California, nearly 1,400 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer annually, and in the Bay Area, we see disparities in access to preventative care. In…
The Importance of National Poverty Awareness Month
The Importance of National Poverty Awareness Month January marks National Poverty Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the pervasive issue of poverty in America and to take actionable steps toward change. Poverty affects millions of Americans, limiting access to essential resources like housing, education, and healthcare. For many, community health centers (CHCs) serve as a vital lifeline, offering affordable, quality care to those who might otherwise go without. At Marin City Health and Wellness Center (MCHWC), we are part of a network of nearly 4,000 community health centers across the United States dedicated to bridging the gap in healthcare access for underserved populations. Through grassroots efforts and a commitment to African American health equity, MCHWC is helping to address the health disparities that disproportionately affect…
HIV/AIDS in Focus: Progress, Challenges, and Community Care
HIV/AIDS in Focus: Progress, Challenges, and Community Care Every December, National HIV/AIDS Awareness Month provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in fighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic and renew efforts to address ongoing challenges. For community health centers, particularly in areas like the San Francisco Bay Area and Marin City, this month is a time to focus on outreach, education, and expanding access to essential testing and treatment services. The State of HIV/AIDS in the United States The United States has made significant strides in combating HIV/AIDS, yet the epidemic remains a public health challenge. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1.2 million people in the U.S. are living with HIV. Despite progress in treatment, about 13% of those…
Men’s Health Matters: Steps Toward a Healthier Future
Prioritizing Black and Hispanic Men’s Well-Being for Longer, Healthier Lives On average, men die nearly five years earlier than women—a disparity partly due to men’s lower likelihood of visiting the doctor regularly or seeking medical attention when health concerns arise. This issue is even more pronounced for Black and Hispanic men, who face unique challenges and health disparities that require specific attention and action. Community health centers are essential in addressing these unequal health outcomes, encouraging regular check-ups and fostering a culture of proactive health management. Movember, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health, also plays a vital role in promoting this message, motivating men to take charge of their health for both themselves and their loved ones. Health Disparities Among Black and…
Combating Diabetes for Health Equity
Combating Diabetes for Health Equity November is American Diabetes Month, a time to reflect on the impact of diabetes and unite efforts toward managing, preventing, and ultimately ending this disease. Diabetes impacts over 37 million people across the United States, with underserved communities, especially African American populations, disproportionately affected. In areas where systemic barriers often stand between residents and the resources they need for health, community health centers, like Marin City Health and Wellness Center (MCHWC), are committed to addressing these disparities. Let’s explore the specific challenges our community faces in combating diabetes and what MCHWC is doing to support prevention, education, and effective management as we work together for a healthier Marin City. American Diabetes Month: Why It Matters American Diabetes Month serves as a national…
New CMO: 30+ Years’ Experience, Deep Commitment to Community
New CMO: 30+ Years’ Experience, Deep Commitment to Community Marin City, CA – October 25, 2024 – The Marin City Health and Wellness Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Donald Golden as its new Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Golden brings over 30 years of extensive healthcare experience, a deep commitment to community service, and a passion for mentoring future generations of medical professionals. Born and raised in Berkeley, California, Dr. Golden began his medical journey with a solid foundation at the University of California, Berkeley, followed by his medical training at UCLA. As a first-generation medical doctor, he has paved the way for future generations, inspiring relatives to follow in his footsteps and pursue careers in healthcare. Throughout his career, Dr. Golden has been…