Dr. Animalu, Infectious Disease Specialist interviews Dr. Michelle Kitson, Internal Medicine Physician in Memphis, TN focused on the devastating statistics of health inequities in Shelby County, TN.

Health disparities in Shelby County, TN, highlight significant inequalities affecting various populations.

Shelby County scores 0.909 out of 1.0 on the BlueCross Health Index, slightly above the statewide average of 0.907. This index indicates overall health quality, where higher scores reflect better health outcomes.

Health outcomes vary notably by race and ethnicity, with certain groups experiencing higher rates of chronic diseases and lower access to healthcare focused on disparities related to domestic violence and racial and ethnic inequities.

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Dr Chinelo Animalu, Infectious Disease and HIV Specialist, host a masterclass in a series of podcast focused on Sexually Transmitted Diseases affecting at large our younger vunerable population. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection, also called sexually transmitted disease, caused my bacteria.

Gonorrhea bacteria can infect the urethra, rectum, female reproductive tract, mouth, throat or eyes. Gonorrhea is commonly spread during vaginal, oral or anal sexualal activity.

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Herpes is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus. This infection is primarily spread through contact with genitals or bodily fluids. STIs, also known as STDs or venereal diseases, can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Genital herpes can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. It's important to note that some individuals infected with the virus may experience very mild symptoms or none at all, yet they can still transmit the virus. Others may suffer from pain, itching, and sores around the genitals, anus, or mouth.

Currently, there is no cure for genital herpes. Symptoms often recur after the initial outbreak. However, medication can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission to others. Additionally, using condoms can aid in preventing the spread of genital herpes.

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Infectious Diseases Specialist, Dr Chinelo Animalu, MD, host of Medical Class 901 had a conversation with Let's Talk 901 host Betty Lamarr, regarding HIV in the Mid-South region, particularly in Memphis. HIV and other STD's present a significant public health concern for our younger population. This area has experienced various infectious diseases, influenced by factors such as climate, population density, and healthcare access.

The Mid-South has a notable prevalence of HIV, with specialized clinics like Midsouth Infectious Disease Associates focusing on treatment and prevention.

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HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is the virus responsible for HIV infection. This acronym can refer to either the virus itself or the infection it causes.

AIDS, which stands for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, represents the most advanced stage of HIV infection.

HIV specifically targets and destroys CD4 cells (CD4 T lymphocytes), which are crucial for a healthy immune system. The depletion of these cells hampers the body's ability to fend off infections, illnesses, and certain cancers.

Without treatment, HIV can progressively weaken the immune system, leading to a decline in health and potentially advancing to AIDS. This progression increases the risk of contracting other infections, such as hepatitis, tuberculosis, and some sexually transmitted infections.

However, with appropriate treatment, it is possible to prevent HIV from damaging CD4 cells, allowing the immune system to recover and maintain its defense against other infections.

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Dr Chinelo Animalu, MD, Infectious Disease Specialist had a candid conversation with Mr. Denford Galloway. Mr. Galloway was diagnosed in 2003 with HIV during a routine visit to the doctor. Many people do not know that they have been infected with HIV so it is important to get tested. Mr. Galloway works with the Ryan White Program bringing awareness to young people in the community who are at risk for contracting HIV. Memphis is #2 in the nation for newly diagnosed cases of HIV among our younger population starting at age 14. The conversation took a deep dive into the negative stigma of HIV in the black community which is devastating and many people do not seek help or they keep their positive status a secret and therefore continue the spread of HIV.

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Dr. Chinelo Animalu, MD, is hosting a Q&A session to discuss essential information about Chlamydia, a common STI affecting both men and women. This infection can lead to permanent damage to a woman's reproductive system, potentially making it difficult or impossible to conceive in the future. Additionally, Chlamydia can result in a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy, where the pregnancy occurs outside the womb. To prevent STIs, using protection during intimate encounters is crucial.

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