It is a wonderful blessing to see a new year. We have made it to 2005 and it is time for a new beginning. A new year brings about many challenges and new declarations. For example, we vow to be a better: wife/husband, parent, employee, and the list goes on. The most famous goal is to shed those unwanted pounds. As a whole, society is so invigorated by this wish that memberships to local gyms skyrocket after New Years. Unfortunately, by the months end most of us have fallen into our bad redundant habits. In order to break this vicious detrimental cycle, we must begin to view our health as not a popular commodity or accessory (i.e. good health equals looking good in hip hugger jeans). We must take the time to look in the mirror and first realize that, “this is the only you, that you get…so you better take care of yourself.” And if we have this perspective, about our body, what we do with our bodies, and what we expose our bodies to-we can not help but put our bodies best interest at heart at all times. This may be old news to some, but it is always good to reiterate the importance of the beauty that God has given us in our bodies.

The purpose of this article is to focus on “taking charge of your health”. Optimizing our health, deserves to be more than just a new years resolution, it must be a daily choice. There are a multitude of health issues facing us today: heart disease, breast cancer, stroke, diabetes, obesity, and the list goes on. Even if you feel that you are dealing with your medical issues successfully, there are ways that you can optimize your current health. There are three key points to take home from this article; understanding your diagnosis and medical history; understanding the treatment for your medical conditions; and being compliant with your physician’s recommendations.

First, lets talk about understanding your medical conditions. It is important to become acquainted with all of the medical issues that you are facing. For example, knowing if you have high blood pressure (hypertension) or high blood sugar (diabetes mellitus). And once you have identified your medical conditions, you have the power to ask questions regarding your health status. Therefore, you and your doctor can establish health goals.

Second, it is important to understand the treatment for your medical condition (s). For example, in regards to your hypertension, are you treating it with diet and exercise. Or are you treating it with an anti-hypertensive (blood pressure medicine). If you are started on medication, make sure you know and understand which medications are for what condition. Also, it is important to know what dose of the medication you are on and the frequency in which you take the medication (i.e. do you take the medicine once or twice daily).

Finally, most important is to be compliant by following the recommendations of your doctor. For example, if your doctor starts you on a new medicine, your doctor will most likely want to see you back for a follow up visit to determine if the medicine worked for you. The only way to see if the medicine is working is by taking it as recommended by your doctor. Therefore, at the follow-up visit, you and your doctor will be able to determine if that particular medication is suitable for you or if there needs to be a different treatment regimen.

I challenge each reader to become more empowered regarding his or her health. The next time you stop by a mirror, take a few extra minutes to appreciate the miracle of God-you. Understand, that beyond the shadow of a doubt, “God did not make any junk.” And most importantly, “you are the only you, you get”, so cherish yourself. One of the most direct ways to cherish yourself is to take charge of your health. Remember, that you must understand your diagnosis; know what treatment plans you are on for your health issues; and follow your doctors advice. God bless and strive for hiyaah health.

Disclaimer: The medical views represented above are strictly the opinions of

Dr. Teresa M. Wesley, a.k.a.”Dr. T”, and are for health education purposes only. Each persons medical illness and health issues cannot be generalized. All readers are advised to consult with their personal primary care physicians before implementing any of the above recommendations