Like many, each time I start the new year with certain health goals and plan. And after a year of stress and having a less active lifestyle, which led to weight gain, I was ready for my annual visit to my medical center.

Note: This post is part of a sponsored campaign for Take Action for Health. However, any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

Being a woman in my 40's means I need to keep on top of my health to avoid medical problems as I get older. But visiting my medical doctor can sometimes come with it's own problems. Like dealing with a doctor who doesn't always understand "African American" health and our unique needs.

This year I had a few "moments" with my doctor when I asked about mental health resources, what I need to know about heart issues at my age and how to manage my weight gain.

What was the issue?

My doctor seemed more focused about checking off certain things on the chart that she felt were important, versus what my current concerns were. Some issues she didn't focus on. But because I know the statics of African American and Black women and certain medical conditions, I wanted her focus.

Which was an issue for me, in more ways then one. Sometimes I feel that doctors lack cultural sensitivity. Our health can be affected by our cultural influences, and real talk, by just being of a certain ethic population. Doctors need to understand that, because it could help greatly in our care.


Thankfully I don't have to just rely on one doctor. I have choices and can seek medical resources in other places, including an online site like "Take Action for Health".

The first thing that stood out for me about the site is that it's exclusively developed for African American/Black community. Which means the site aims to reduce some of the greatest health risks facing the African American community today including:

• Emotional Health
• Cancer
• Heart Health
• Prediabetes
• Kidney Health

While you do need to register for the site, the site itself is FREE to use.

So if you're looking for a resource to help you with your medical goals, then make sure to register on the "Take Action for Health" website and use the resources found there.

Like you, I want to be in charge of my medical health so I can enjoy living my life.

Learn more - www.takeactionforhealth.org