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…
Breast Cancer Awareness: Early Detection Saves Lives
Breast Cancer Awareness: Early Detection Saves Lives October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting those affected by the disease. Regular screenings can save lives, especially in underserved communities where access to care may be limited. Join us this month in spreading knowledge and advocating for life-saving resources and support. 8 Quick Facts About Breast Cancer 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime.297,000+ new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected in 2024.Men can get breast cancer too—around 2,400 cases diagnosed yearly.5-year survival rate is 90%, higher with early detection.Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in U.S. women.Black women have a higher mortality rate despite similar diagnosis…
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month Together, We Can Make Our Community a Safer Place October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a crucial time for community health centers to come together in solidarity with survivors and raise awareness about the ongoing fight to end domestic violence. Domestic violence affects individuals across all demographics and is a public health crisis that extends beyond physical harm to impact mental, emotional, and social well-being. Underserved communities face significant challenges when it comes to addressing domestic violence, making them especially vulnerable to abuse while having limited access to crucial care and resources. Factors such as poverty, lack of affordable healthcare, language barriers, and geographic isolation often compound the difficulties that survivors in these communities experience. Economic barriers: Many survivors in underserved communities…
Suicide: Raising Awareness, Breaking the Stigma, Offering Hope
Suicide: Raising Awareness, Breaking the Stigma, Offering Hope Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month is observed every September to encourage open conversations about mental health, educate the public on the warning signs of suicide, and highlight the importance of reaching out to those who may be struggling. The month is an opportunity to remind everyone that help is available, and that suicide is preventable with the right support and intervention. Underserved Communities Disproportionately Affected Suicide rates and mental health challenges disproportionately affect underserved communities, including racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, low-income populations, and those living in rural areas. Given the populations Marin City Health and Wellness treats, it’s important to know that suicide rates among Black youth have been increasing at a faster rate than among other…
September is the Perfect Time to Focus on Self-Care
September is the Perfect Time to Focus on Self-Care September is Self-Care Awareness Month, a time where we are reminded of the importance of taking care of our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. MCHWC encourages its patients to make self-care a priority by engaging in activities that promote relaxation, health, and overall happiness. Self-Care for Women’s Well-Being Women often prioritize the needs of their families, communities, and workplaces over their own, leading to a cycle of neglecting personal health and well-being. This self-sacrificing behavior can result in increased stress, burnout, and health problems, as they continuously serve others without allocating time or resources for their self-care. At our MCHWC San Rafael Women’s Health Center, we offer treatment and special events specifically for women, emphasizing the importance…