CONTINUED- Called to Medicine..... Called to Community An Intimate Chat with Dr. Jelisa Timmons
DZ – What forms of cancer are being discovered in black women at later stages in the disease? Why do you think that is? Are we ignoring our bodies?
JT – Breast, cervical, endometrial, colon cancers – they all tend to be diagnosed later in black women and tend to me more aggressive. This can be attributed to less access to care and lower screening rates. We cannot overlook systemic mistrust as black women are more likely to have their symptoms minimized or dismissed. There also tends to be a lot of fear and stigma around cancer, so we seek evaluation later and less often.
Get your regular screenings.
If you are worried about your symptoms, keep advocating for your health. We must have a voice in this fight because we are suffering as a whole.
Also, if you ever experience any bleeding after you have entered menopause( 12 months without a period), go see your doctor! That is never normal.
DZ – Do you recommend multivitamins are part of wellness?
JT – Post-menopause, having enough calcium and vitamin D is important to promote bone health. The recommendation is 1200mg of calcium and vitamin D 800 international units. During childbearing years, a multivitamin with at least 400mcg of folic acid to promote normal development if you become pregnant. Otherwise, I think a daily multivitamin is fine. But if you eat a good, varied diet you can get a lot of the nutrients you need from your diet. Talk to your doctor about what is best for you, especially based on your needs.
DZ – How do you balance a thriving practice and your family life?
JT – A little grace and a lot of Jesus! It is challenging finding balance sometimes. I think that building routines and setting boundaries has probably been the most helpful in maintaining balance. I feel really blessed to have a husband who partners with me to find the best balance for our family, while also taking time out for ourselves.
DZ – What advise can you share with young ladies who have the dream of becoming doctors?
JT – If you want to be a doctor, go be a doctor! I am a living testimony that the Lord can bring you further than you ever imagined. The journey is hard at times and requires a lot of sacrifice, but it has allowed me so many opportunities and a fulfilling career. If I could have them remember one thing it would be these two words – delayed gratification. The process to becoming a doctor is not quick or easy, it is a long windy road but such a good, rich journey.
DZ – Are you accepting new clients? If so, how can women make an appointment to see you? 20