Oneeka Williams MD, MPH’s Post

Since we recognized World IBD Day over the weekend and we’re now into Digestive Disease Week here in the U.S., I wanted to take the time to recognize all the patients suffering with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as the scientists, providers, and caregivers working hard each day to innovate and develop new solutions for irritable bowel diseases (IBD).   There has been significant progress made for people living with IBD, but there is still so much more work to be done to support this patient population. Beyond the need for continued research and development of new therapies, it is important to note that many patients lack immediate access to the innovative medicines already available. This is a huge problem, not only affecting patients and their caregivers, but also our local economies and the stability of health care systems around the world.   Doctors and patients should be empowered to make their own medical decisions, without having to overcome unnecessary hurdles that delay or prevent care. Ready access to treatment choices could help people better manage their health and reduce stress, which can often exacerbate conditions like IBD.   I hope patients know that despite the barriers, at #mycompany, we are committed to continuing to learn about these diseases and providing people with more choices that could improve their lives. We hear you; we see you; and we believe science will win. #WorldIBDDay #DDW2024

If you told a physician 30 years ago that one day 60% of Americans would have cardiovascular heart disease, he/she would tell you that you were 🤥 🤪 This should frighten all of us. The costs to our society will be catastrophic. 🤯 The impact on our families and loved ones will be heart-breaking (literally). 💔 We all know the root causes. We've known for years. And we're not being aggressive enough nor intelligent about treating/preventing these risk factors. Especially . . . 💊 Hypertension - It isn't just a number. It's a silent killer. If your blood pressure is not <130/80 you should be frightened. Would you let a cancer slowly kill you? Didn't think so. 🍔 Obesity - Why are we normalizing the #1 threat to our health? I'm all for being kind to people and "body positivity" but at the cost of our health? Nope. 🍩 Type 2 Diabetes - Why do we continue to treat insulin resistant diabetes with more insulin? Caloric restriction should be treatments #1 - #10 we discuss with patients. Medications should be off the table upon diagnosis. It's not difficult stuff we're talking about. As a urologist, I'm discussing these issues with patients on a daily basis. Physicians, stop telling me that you don't have time or patients don't want to listen. They do. Because if you don't have time to prevent cardiovascular disease, then the whole system is going to be bankrupt. It's akin to watching your house burn down but sitting idle because you're a gardener and it's only your job to prune the bushes. Grab the damn fire hose! 👩🚒 💦 In the end, we can all take personal responsibility of our health. Every one of us can choose to be a beacon of health for our patients and loved ones. And if we don't . . . one day . . . either you or someone you love is going to develop acute chest pain . . . and run to an understaffed ER with no physician to provide care . . . because they are all burned out and now sell real estate. #truthbomb #sadbuttrue #diseaseprevention #hearthealthmatters #patientsfirst #foodasmedicine #physicians #healthcare

Last week, our journey through the cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic system began with World Obesity Day on March 4th, and we have showcased through this week how important the interconnectivity of these organs and systems is for our health. As we come to the end of our week of discovery, we turn our focus towards a related crucial health issue – chronic kidney disease (#CKD). Today, on #WorldKidneyDay, we are embracing the theme of 'Kidney Health for All - Advancing Equitable Access to Care and Optimal Medication Practice'. We celebrate the medical advances that have helped slow CKD progression, but we also acknowledge the need to do so much more. Equitable access to the best treatment and care available is not just a goal, but a necessity.   This World Kidney Day, we at Boehringer Ingelheim are emphasizing the importance of improving the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of CKD. We are committed to embracing a multidisciplinary approach towards care and focusing our resources on filling treatment gaps. The connection between obesity and kidney disease is clear, and our mission to address these interconnected health issues remains steadfast. As we close the loop on these two awareness days, we reaffirm our dedication to advancing health for all.

🔍 Just completed an insightful CME on a pressing issue in diabetes care: "The T2DM patient with kidney disease – What is going wrong? How can we do better?" 📚 With the prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) on the rise, it's crucial to address the intricate interplay between diabetes and kidney health. This CME shed light on the complexities, challenges, and innovative approaches in managing patients at this critical intersection. Key takeaways: 🔹 Understanding the underlying mechanisms contributing to kidney disease in T2DM patients. 🔹 Exploring proactive strategies for early detection and intervention. 🔹 Harnessing the latest research and therapeutic advancements to optimize patient outcomes. Grateful for the opportunity to expand my knowledge and improve patient care. Let's continue striving for excellence in diabetes management! 💡 #DiabetesCare #KidneyHealth #ContinuousLearning

Did you know that Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects a third of the population? It's challenging to diagnose because its symptoms overlap with other digestive conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Dr. Barry is looking into new markers for IBS diagnosis. By studying enzymes (proteins that chop up molecules) in poo samples, she aims to develop specific tests that can tell the difference between IBS and other conditions. This means fewer unnecessary tests, discomfort for patients, and less strain on healthcare systems. Imagine a world where a diagnosis was reached quicker. With less invasive testing. This research could lead to a world where we don’t have to imagine. The reality could be fewer tests, less discomfort for patients, and less strain on healthcare. Thank you, our INCREDIBLE community, for helping us shape the future of IBS research. For your support and appreciation for the researchers working tirelessly to make a difference. Your voices matter and together, we can make a difference.💚 You can view the top 10 research priorities for IBS on our website via the link here - https://lnkd.in/gH3KavZ2 #IrritableBowelSyndrome #IBS #IBSAwareness #IBSAwarenessMonth #GutsUK #GutsUKCharity #Research #Grants

🌟 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗣𝗗𝗣𝗔 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝗔𝗴𝗲-𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁? 🌟 Placenta-Derived Protein Array (PDPA)—a cutting-edge technology that may open new doors in the management and prevention of age-related diseases like arthritis, Alzheimer’s, and osteoporosis. 🧬💡 Imagine a world where seniors could reduce chronic pain, protect their memory, and strengthen their bones! PDPA has the potential to: 🦴 Support joint health by reducing inflammation in conditions like arthritis. 🧠 Promote cognitive health, potentially delaying Alzheimer’s progression. 💪 Strengthen bones, lowering the risk of fractures in osteoporosis patients. Why is this important? As the population ages, the need for innovative treatments grows. PDPA could offer a new frontier in geriatric medicine, giving hope to millions of older adults battling these chronic conditions. 🌟 What do you think? Could PDPA help reshape the future of age-related disease management? We’d love to hear your thoughts! 💬👇 #PDPA #AgeRelatedDiseases #HealthyAging #ArthritisCare #AlzheimersResearch #OsteoporosisAwareness #GeriatricMedicine #MedicalInnovation #ChronicIllnessCare #AmericanArthritisFoundation #HealthCareAdvances #ElderCare

At Ten we spend a lot of time talking about Women's Health, and rightly so as it can be so over looked. However with Men's Health week approaching we are going to be focusing on another area of Pelvic Health we feel can also be overlooked. Did you know that Erectile dysfunction can be one of the first signs of cardiovascular disease? Cardiovascular disease is the biggest killer of both men and women worldwide. It’s responsible for over 170,000 deaths in the UK each year. That’s one person every 3 minutes (British Heart Foundation).  Erectile dysfunction is often one of the first signs of cardiovascular disease in men and can precede a cardiovascular event by up to 5 years. This critical window of opportunity for early intervention and preventative treatment could mean the difference between life and death. The penile arteries are smaller in diameter compared to coronary arteries, which makes them more susceptible to obstruction from fatty deposits (atherosclerosis). Unfortunately, erectile dysfunction is often treated as a stand-alone symptom and opportunities for life-saving interventions can be frequently missed.  The recent licencing of some over the counter medications means that men are even less likely than before to see their GP about erectile dysfunction. This leaves a vast gap in early diagnosis and screening. One could argue that the responsibility now falls to other healthcare providers that men come into contact with, to pick up early signs and symptoms.  Check back in on Friday for Part 2. Angela Shott Leanne O'Brien Daniel Hanscombe Joanne Mathews #erectiledysfunction #menspelvichealth #physiotherapy

🌍 Today is World Diabetes Day – a day dedicated to raising awareness about one of the most widespread and challenging health conditions affecting millions worldwide. 💙 Diabetes is more than just a diagnosis—it’s a lifelong journey that demands resilience, education, and ongoing support. In my work within the clinical trials space, I’ve seen firsthand how innovative research and collaborative efforts can make a real difference. It’s inspiring to witness the advancements in metabolic diseases, as research teams continue pushing the boundaries to bring new, effective therapies to patients. 🔬 Clinical trials are a crucial piece of the puzzle, driving the discovery of new treatments and prevention strategies that can improve quality of life for those affected by diabetes. Each trial conducted is a step toward a deeper understanding of the disease and a brighter future for patients. 💡 On this day, let’s remember: • Over 537 million adults are living with diabetes worldwide, with numbers expected to rise. • Clinical research plays a vital role in developing better treatments and, ultimately, working toward a cure. • Small lifestyle changes—like regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and routine check-ups—can make a big difference. Today, let’s take a moment to reflect, educate, and support ongoing efforts to combat diabetes. Whether through research, advocacy, or personal support, we all have a role in making a difference. #NationalDiabetesDay #DiabetesAwareness #ClinicalTrials #MetabolicHealth #ResearchMatters #DiabetesSupport

🌟 November is American Diabetes Month! 🌟 At Montefiore Einstein, we’re committed to raising awareness, promoting prevention, and empowering our communities with the tools they need for better diabetes management. This year’s theme, "Empowering Connections," emphasizes the importance of fostering meaningful relationships to support people affected by diabetes. 🤝💙 Our month-long series of events and initiatives are designed to provide education, resources, and support. From interactive tabling events 🏥 to expert-led educational panels 🎓, we’re engaging the Bronx and New York community to make a difference. 💡 Did you know? More than 37 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, and 1 in 5 don’t know they have it. 🚨 In New York, 1.7 million adults have diabetes, with the Bronx having the highest prevalence in NYC. 🏙️ Montefiore Health System Albert Einstein College of Medicine Montefiore Einstein Department of Medicine has comprehensive programs, like our PROMISED Diabetes Education and Community Health Initiatives, are dedicated to improving health outcomes for our patients and community. 🌱✨ #ADMMontefiore #DiabetesMonth #NovemberDiabetesAwareness #MontefioreEinstein #AmericanDiabetesMonth #EmpoweringConnections #MontefioreEinstein #DiabetesAwareness

Diabetes often goes undiagnosed until it's too late, leading to severe complications like amputations and increased mortality. Early detection is crucial, especially as untreated diabetes can double the risk of death and complications. Empowering pharmacists with POCT and prescribing rights can dramatically improve access to early diagnosis and care. Let's prioritize early screening to save lives and limbs! Read this CBC article to learn more about the importance of early screening for diabetes: https://bit.ly/3L5fAHH