BODY AND MIND
Local pastor prayers PENILE IMPLANThas LEAVES ‘PERMANENT answered thanksFACE to SMILE’ ON PASTOR’S bionic manhood
By JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
By JEFFARAH GIBSON SINCE undergoing the Tribune Features Writer first bionic penile implant jgibson@tribunemedia.net surgery in The Bahamas, a local pastor’s life has been PHILLIP*, a member completely turned around clergy, spent –of notthe onlylocal has his manhood thousand of dollars been restored, but also and his years trying toand achieve an self-confidence his joy erection, all to no avail. in life. Impotence penile “We have drugs, happy adebates pump and injections did as to whether there can be nothing his deflated too muchtoofhelp a great thing,” manhood the pastorto rise toldagain. Tribune But about after his a and lot his of Health research, Phillip came wife’s now vibrant and freacross Dr Greggory Pinto quent love making. at the Urology Care BahaPastor Philip*, whose real mas here in Nassau. It was identity has been concealed Dr Pinto who was finally to protect his privacy, able to solve Phillip’s probspent thousands of dollars lem through the first bionic and many years trying to penile implant surgery to be achieve an erection, all to performed in the country. no avail. Impotence drugs, The surgery took place on a penile pump, and injecDecember 28 and marked tions did nothing to help the commencement of a with his dilemma. new partnership between But after a lot of research, Boston Scientific and UrolPhilip came across Dr ogy Care Bahamas to offer Greggory Pinto at Urology a new facet of world-class Care Bahamas in Nassau. medical tourism at DocIt was Dr Pinto who was tors Hospital: cutting edge finally able to solve Philip’s penile implant procedures. problem through the first “I think a lot of people bionic penile implant surhave the misconception gery to be performed in the that this is for old men who country. have lived their lives and I The surgery took place am just trying to give them on December 28, 2019, a second life. But this is for and marked the start of a men who are married and new between have partnership despair in their lives Boston Scientific and because a medical Urolillness ogy Care Bahamas to offer has been robbing them of atheir new erections,” facet of world-class Dr Pinto medical tourism at Doctold Tribune Health. torsPhillip Hospital: cutting edge considers the penile implant procedures. penile implant an answer to It’sprayers. now been three his months since of the “The experience ED
life-changing surgery. So far, things have been going extremely well for him and his wife. He said they are both reaching new levels of pleasure he didn’t know existed. “Dr Pinto reassured me that I would be the stud of lifegreatest of depression. my dreamsMy anderecmy tile dysfunction was as Ia wife’s wildest fantasies. result of radical was getting zero prostatecerections tomy surgery,” the pastor for many years before the explained. implant surgery, but now penile myAwife lovesprosthesis to tease surme gerycall is an in severe and me option her young marcases man. of erectile dysfuncathon I have been able to attain heights of pleasure tion when all other options that I truly never thought of treatment have been possible. I am 110 percent exhausted. satisfied livefrom my Men and whoI now suffer life with a permanent smile. diabetes, hypertension and “My wife has disease, been overcardiovascular as joyed well as and those completely with sickle satisfied by often our love cell disease, have making. The love of making is high incidences erectile completely dysfunction.natural feeling andThe the implant allowspenile us to advanced be spontaneous and advenprosthesis is a highly effecturous. The with size of my male tive device a very high member is larger than has rate of satisfaction foritboth ever been inand my the entire life,” the patient patient’s he told Tribune partner. The Health. implantable A penile prosthesis surdevice consists of two inflatgery an option in severe able is cylinders placed within cases of erectile the shaft of thedysfunction penis, and when other options theseallcylinders are have conbeen exhausted. nected to a fluid reservoir Men who suffer implanted in the groinfrom with diabetes, hypertension and a small, easily palpable acticardiovascular disease, as vating device within the well as sac. those with sickle scrotal cellHaving disease, often a studiedhavethe high incidence of erectile nature of the surgery and dysfunction. its success rate, Phillip came advanced toThe believe this route penile would prosthesis is to be a finally offer asaid remedy to his highly effectivecomplaint. device with long-standing a very high rate ofand satisfac“I am married, based tion for both the patient and on numerous conversations the withpatient’s my wife,partner. I guess The you implantable device consists can say she had mixed emotions (about the surgery). She was a little apprehensive, but at the same time a little excited, because while the fear was real, the surgery could return a
of two inflatable cylinders placed within the shaft of the penis, and these cylinders are connected to a fluid reservoir implanted in the groin with a small, easily palpable activating device within the scrotal sac. “The device itself has significant part ofofmy thebody intibecome a part macytruly in our love life,” he and undetectable in said.daily life, but when the my With hope his always heart, moment arises,in I can Phillip left occasion his manhood in rise to the for as the hands of Dr IPinto, who long as I want. am truly blessed. handled Iithave with had careabsoand lutely caution.no discomfort and zero regrets. wife looks “There is My no such thing at and remarks as me a simple surgerythat in she my can’t that I evenone had that the mind,tellespecially penile involvesimplant generalsurgery,” anaessaid Philip. thesia. However, I had the Philip confidence struggled in with utmost the achieving erections after medical abilities and expeundergoing a radical rience of Dr Pinto; prothat tectorate several provided asurgery level of comfort years ago. procedure Ever since would then, that the things were never be successful,” he the said.same. He“Iteven struggled is essential to with note depression due his consistthat my faith in Jesus Christ, ent inability God, to become the Almighty has proerect in greatest those intimate vided the level of moments withthe his success wife. of comfort for “The penile implant outhas the surgery. A positive given me placed a newinlease on come was His care life, it has offilled me that and the hands the surwith joywould and fulfillment,” geons be guided he by said. wasthe in the midst proof a Him “Iand healing very chapter in my life cess dark would also be guided prior the bionic penile by thetosame.” implant, as I had essence Following the in successful been robbed of my procedure, Phillip has manexpehood self-confidence. riencedandsome slight pain, Ibut was ablefeels to blessed physihe not said he cally express love with to once again be ablemy to wife and that tragedy had experience erections. me“From depressed feeling all and indications hopeless. and the reports from the “I am now new man surgeons, the asurgery was and I feel incredible a success. Now wehappiwait ness every single day. I now for the healing process to have greater sexual be completed and prowess for the bionic penis to be deployed (for active duty),” said Phillip. Dr Pinto added: “The device works immediately. Even for the first 24 hours
BAHAMAS’ FIRST PENILE IMPLANT SURGERY DEEMED A SUCCESS
DR Greggory Pinto with the highly advanced AMS 700 inflatable penile prosthesis.
DR Greggory Pinto with the highly advanced AMS 700 inflatable penile prosthesis. than even in the best days a natural erection and pro- multiple times. I have and by providing and length the patient’s wemy leave the Ipatient with a vides of youth. am thankful full ofrigidity when curvature had no complaints at all necessary full rigidity penis by and up toa 25 percent. full the erection, so these are inflated, for kindness and selfnatural, flac- the regarding the bionic penile penetration. Careappearance Bahamas for mendedication who haveurologist not had Dr an cidUrology less feel and implant,” said Philip. “I would conservatively was recently the erection for many it when Greggory Pinto hasyears, shown deflated. named The AMS Bahamian men who are about erectile 50,000 regional by estimate improves their self-esteem.” me in providing this rebirth 700 bionicreferral penis iscentre currently strugglingthatwith have erecBoston for AMS implants were first the forPenile my life,” he said. onlyScientific penile implant on Bahamian dysfunction,menPhilip said, dysfunction. not 700 market penile prosthesis place- tile Penile implants were first the that can increase no longer have It to may because developed in 1973. Today, as severe to require a developed in 1973. Today, the girth and length be thanks to advances in the ment procedures. Boston Scientific’s AMS 700 both Boston Scientific’s 700 of Boston the patient’s penisisbyconup penile medicalprosthesis, field therebut is now it is aa Scientific inflatable penile AMS prostheinflatable peniletechnically prosthe- to 25 percent, according to common permanent solution. occurrence,” said sidered a world-renowned sis is the most sis is the most can only regret not medicalScientific. innovator. Their Dr“IPinto. advanced peniletechnically implant Boston advanced penile implant current “The penile implant has knowing about thetiepenile “Bahamian men their bionic penile available worldwide. available worldwide. implant surgery several and self-worth implantcompletely is seen as areliable revo- self-esteem The AMS 700 penile been The AMS 700 penis penile– and durable, and it always based years ago that Ierectile could on sotheir lutionary advancement implant – or bionic implant – ormost bionic penis in – provides an iron rod have avoided having years and when they don’t in the metreatment of power, is also the popular is also the most popular in erection. I decide dysfuncwhen I have of despair no any, itrelated affects totheir severe erectile Boston Scientific’s extensive Boston Scientific’sdevices, extensive become social erections,” said.basically life he They tion that androd to Peyronie’s line of inflatable as want line of inflatable sensations • Name been deadhas inside. disease – The extreme curva- live their lives it perfectly mimics adevices, natural flaccid. as – according to medical during love making are changed to preserve the erection and provides full ture of the erect penis. But this procedure will experts it perfectly mimics and ofI can pastor’s anonymity lives from darkThe use the orgasm bionic take their rigidity -when inflated, and intact a natural, flaccid feel and penile implant in men ness to light and make them (erectile dysfunction) appearance when deflated. with Peyronie’s disease rise again...better than they leaves a man emotionally The AMS 700 bionic penis can ensure the develop- have ever have.” debilitated. This physical/ is currently the only penile ment of a healthy, happy, emotional impairment robs * The name was changed implant on the market that fully satisfying sexual life a man of his self worth and By CARA HUNT three or more non-communicato protect the patient’s manhood that can lead to a can increase both the girth by correcting the penile cmbrennen@tribunemedia.net ble diseases. That means if one of us contracts COVID-19 and S THE impact of he has diabetes, hypertension or COVID-19 continheart disease that person could IT is absolutely essentially that 5. Keep a distance of least six ues to be felt across all those affected by some non- feet from others when in public. very likely die. the world, people communicable disease and those “It is important to understand 6 Eat healthy meals, which are asking what they can do to 60 years over adhere to these life includes a variety of fruit and that COVID-19 attacks the reshelp fight off the virus. piratorycausing system.less It heads for your saving steps: vegetables. unique method. Threading By KENYA ingrown hairs Some studies have shown, for throat and lungs, this makes it Here are the ten steps you can 7. Keep physical active and get MORTIMER-McKENZIE can be done on all areas (hair is removed in its natuexample, that Vitamin D might follow to stay healthy. fordirection oxygen to your adequate rest. of the face. It can lastdifficult up ral of get hairtogrowth) play a part in helping to boost system and you are unable 1. Take your medication and 8. Quit smoking and stay away to four weeks on an aver• It’sifless painful your system in a bid to follow medical advice. AREimmune you still shaving to receive sufficient oxygen from anyone who is smoking. age. Threading offers • Softer and smoother off depilatory the virus. creams 2. Secure at least one month 9. Avoid using coping strategies your body’s ability to manage orfend using anti-aging benefits because skin (sugaring exfoliates the A report from facial Children’s supply of your medication or that involve alcohol or drugs. conditions as asthma, to remove unwanted there is no heat applied skin bysuch only removing dead 10. Talk to others about how you Health non-profit longer if possible. hypertension and heart and bodyDefense hair? If -so,a you to the delicate skin in the skin cells and not disease live skin 3. Wear a mask if you are are feeling. chaired by Robert F Kennedy Jr will decrease. This means your need to read on; you will under eye area. However, cells). “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle - suggested Vitamin body is unable to fight learn of two that unique meth-D does coughing or sneezing or in public. it is important that you • Can remove very short 4. Wash your hands with soap can boast your immunity and help play roleremoval. in fending off viruses, back and this could ods of ahair visit a seasoned threading hairs although studies have mostly and water for at least 20 seconds you not become seriously affected death.” Bahamians professionalMANY for the best • mean Sugaring reduces and or ill,” said Dr Duane Sands. been carried out on previous or use an alcohol-based sanitiser. He also Shaving experience. have pre-existing diminishes hair noted growththat virus casesisdue the most COVID-19 mental health is Shaving stilltothe conditions with makes your hair appear • Sugar paste is water soloutbreak being so will make difference. equal paste as important popular method of new. remov- thickerthat almost half the uble (sugar because of theablunt Body sugaring left on the Maintaining healthy conditions - which unfortunately hypertension This is nation and be easily encouraged ing Two hair. Irish Using studies a razorlast to week suf- skin can angle of removing the hair.a an already ancient cleaned and kidney and also suggested Vitamin D could an essential com- is almost half the population. Bahamians to mainshave is quick, simple and fering from Why lifestyle is it will thatbe shavEgyptian method of chronic hair off with warm water). chronic disEYEBROW threading help you47 achieve those of perfect brows. lungremoval. “As can a nation, per cent play a role,However, with researchers ponent fighting inexpensive. it ing clogs your to pores? It is COVID-19, Manyconditions. view it as • tain It is close a cost contact effective are at a higher population fromhair highandease suggesting takebest 20 tobecause 50 said Sands with family friends doesn’t meanadults it is the theDrhair is said onlyin the hairminisexposesour your skin to suffers coarser monitor the superior method of hair method of hairand removal risk. 26 per cent of leave micrograms of Vitamin try’satlatest conference on blood albeit a distance, method; it comes with itsD each removed the press surface, these chemicals andpressure can the andhow long you these removal. There are many • It isatsafe to use onand deliAlso in risk categous of diabetes. day. Shaving removes the leavingthe pandemic. their days with rouflaws. hair trapped in the skin if its sensitive. There creams on your skin. reasons why you should try fillcate areas of the body ries are those with asthma, “My fellow literatureangles also and points hair out follicles. As of This yesterday the tines and structure which would hairThe at different over morning, a is no guarantee either that Bahamians, The sugaring: the morbidly make the days of quarantine less continuesThreading to rank sickle cell disease, youfrom should takecaushigh doses had the recorded 47 hair caseswillBahamas just the not surface, period country of time gives skin all be removed. • It’s all natural obese, those who are immuno- stressful. So there you have it, most obese nations of the Vitamin D without consulting and eight deaths - someUnfortunately, of whom among ing potential for painful a discoloured appearance. this the method This is inan ancient There is nowith chance of it’s more than just hair such• as persons the region of the Indian Americas and ofcomprised your doctor. had pre-existing conditions withit’smental health ingrown hairs. Shaving also of removing hair and method remov- getting burned (the paste Patients is removal, skin care. HIV/AIDS, those with cancer on Planet Earth.” There are more questions than which may have had an impact. challenges were urged to concauses discoloration over Hair removal creams shaving may be the best ing hair, using 100and percent hot, just warm) those onnever medicines such as tinue taking their medication that thread those to remove answers so far - but Minister Dr Sands out the for He time in individuals with Depilatory creamspointed are method men’s explained facial cotton • It’s sanitary (bacteria • Kenya Mortimeror chemotherapy. 60 or older and those with steroids It of Health Dr Duane Sands not has much higherdifferent danger from patientshair, face if aged and to McKenzie reach out isfor darker skin tones. because removing hair unwanted facial hair. don’t live in large amounts anassistance anti-aging “Two of five Bahamians have conditions such as diabetes, highlighted you can take already suffer chronic they need It is a mythsteps that shaving shavingthey in have the sense that from below the hair follicle is also one of the safest of sugar. This is also should the skin careit. specialist at makes your hair grow back only surface hair is being can create other issues for methods of removing facial reason sugar was used the Baha Retreat Antithicker. It is true that the removed. Depilatory men’s beards. It would be hair. Eyebrow thread- during the Civil War to kill Aging Spa. Visit www. hair bulb becomes larger. creams have harsh chemi- best to choose a depilatory ing can help you achieve infections). baharetreat.com or e-mail However, shaving only cals and removing your cream that works best for perfect brows due to its • There is less breakage, kenya@baharetreat.com.
TEN THINGS YOU CAN DO TO STAY HEALTHY AND FIGHT COVID-19
A ANCIENT METHODS OF HAIR REMOVAL THE TEN STEPS TO GOOD HEALTH
PAGE 10 TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020
THE TRIBUNE
Gene mutations can wpredispose advancesBahamian in men to prostate cancer state treatments B8WOMAN
0
THE TRIBUNE
THE UROLOGY DOCTOR IS IN...
Dr Greggory Pinto
Ultrasound imaging does not generally show the location of prostate cancer lesions. The ultrasound guidance allows for the anatomical directed biopsy of the prostate. Ultrasound guided prostate biopsies can miss prostate cancer altogether or biopsy low grade prostate cancer and miss higher grade prostate cancer. It is estimated that 25% of ultrasound guided prostate biopsies under stage or fail to detect prostate cancer that is present. Urologists can now use MRI prostate images in real time with ultrasound guidance and specifically biopsy suspicious prostate lesions and thus provide highly accurate prostate cancer detection. MRI prostate imaging has led to a considerable reduction world-wide in unnecessary prostate biopsies, whereby biopsies are not performed if the MRI has not shown prostate cancer suspected lesions. PARP (Poly ADP-Ribose Polymerase) inhibitors for prostate cancer are an important advancement in prostate cancer research and treatment in 2019. PARP is a substance that blocks an enzyme in cells. In prostate cancer treatment PARP may aid in keeping cancer cells from repairing their damaged DNA, leading these prostate cancer cells to die, as a part of targeted prostate cancer treatment. PARP inhibitor treatment has an important role in BRCA gene mutation related prostate cancer. Research continues with great THE BRCA1 gene - future whose promise structure cancer.
for the use of PARP inhibitors in may determine their lifetime risk treating prostate cancer. of prostate cancer and be even The development of immuno- more diligent in early prostate therapy and future vaccines for cancer diagnosis. Targeted more prostate cancer is currently being intense prostate cancer screening investigated and has shown great for Bahamian men with BRCA potential. One type of prostate gene 1 or 2 mutations will help cancer treatment vaccine called prevent prostate cancer deaths Sipuleucel-T (Provenge) has by enabling earlier detection in FDA approval for the manage- this high-risk group for prostate ment of advanced metastatic cancer. prostate cancer patients with few Doctors Hospital has availsymptoms. Provenge helps the able to residents of the Bahamas immune system to target prostate the state-of-the-art 3T MRI magcancer cells. netic resonance imaging, that is An important development in an important advancement in the prostate cancer on the horizon diagnosis, surveillance and manis a simple urine test introduced agement of prostate cancer locally. in 2019, that makes use of urine Prostate cancer is a very treatsamples taken at home. The PUR able disease but yet hundreds of (Prostate Urine Risk) test has Bahamian men are diagnosed been pioneered to detect aggres- every year at an incurable stage sive prostate cancer and predict and far too many die unnecessarwhich patients will require pros- ily from this disease. tate cancer treatment within the From the age of 40 years old, next five years. The PUR test has have a PSA (prostate specific the advantage of men being able antigen) blood test every year. to provide urine samples at home Early detection is the key to the without the need for an uncom- cure of prostate cancer. fortable rectal exam. The PUR test looks at gene expression in • Dr Greggory Pinto is a Bahaurine samples and provides criti- mian urologist who has trained in cal information as to whether South Africa, Germany, France prostate cancer if detected, is low and India. He is a member of the risk or an aggressive form. The European Association of UroloPUR test research continues and gists. Dr Pinto can be reached at it will hopefully be part of future Urology Care Bahamas at the prostate cancer diagnosis. Surgical Suite, Centreville MediGenetic testing for BRCA gene cal Centre, Collins Avenue and mutations are available locally Sixth Terrace. Call 326 1929, welcome@urologycareso that men, particularly with e-mail a strong family history of pros- bahamas.com, or visit www. cancer breast istate pictured - andand BRCA2 genescancer, are both urologycarebahamas.com. common in The Bahamas, and can play a part in both breast cancer and prostate
WHAT does prostate cancer have in common with breast multiple clinical trials has shown cancer? that MRI can be Themultiparametric answer is the BRCA 1 and invaluable tool in theBRCA diagno-1 2angene mutations. The sis, staging active and 2 genesand were firstsurveillance discovered prostate cancer. Pre prostate inof1994. biopsy of MRI for has been a BRCAuse stands BReast significant game changer in the CAncer associated gene. Women detection and stratifying of proswith the inherited BRCA 1 or tate cancer. MRImutations prostate cancer BRCA 2 gene are at imagingrisk canofwith high sensitivity higher developing breast and specificity cancer, ovariandetermine cancer, which colon/ patients require prostate bioprectal cancer and pancreatic sies and the imaging of the MRI cancer in their prostate allowslifetimes. cognitive or real This BRCA 1 and 2 gene time image directed biopsies of mutations faultslesions. aren’t Trajust suspicious or prostate an increased cancercancer risk has for ditionally, prostate women. been diagnosed using biopsy neeMendirected can also BRCA dles intoinherit the prostate gene which puts them glandmutations, with ultrasound guidance. at risk for not just breast cancer, colon/rectal cancer, melanomas and pancreatic cancer, but also with 8.6-fold increased risk prostate cancer. of developing prostate cancer African ancestry is one of the prostate cancer. Every human, men and women in a lifetime and the BRCA 1 greatest risk factors for developmutation 3.9 appear fold ing prostate cancer. have BRCA 1 and BRCAyour 2 genes. knees gene to the lower related cracks can in the risk walls of at developing BRCA genes do not cause breast back. Yourincreased chiropractor any level. And Men feet with the BRCA 2 gene cancer. mutation are eight times more cancer or prostate cancer any prostate canordetermine the cause of that aren’t properly aligned Men BRCA 2 gene likely other cancers. your discomfort andwith rec-thecan contribute to stress and to be diagnosed with prosmutation are also eight times tate cancer and at a younger age, In fact, BRCA genes play a roleproper ommend treatment. pressure at the hip joint. likely breast 61 years in preventing breast cancer and more If traumatic injury suchto develop Your feet also help to old age versus an average cancer before the ageyouof against 80 age of 64 years old for men withas falling on the hip, a protect heelBRCA 2 gene has an important carcancer. accidentthan etc. has beenwithout strike this shock.gene Everyout time men the BRCA 2 gene mutation. role in preventing prostate ruled out, mutation. and the pain the heel of your foot hits The BRCA 2 gene mutation can These genes help repair DNA seemslead to lessenItor away the a shockalso wave is go estimated thatground, one in eight double the risk of developing breaks that could potentially completely when will you’re travels upcancer througha your develop breast more aggressive form of prosto cancer formation; they are women feet,lifetime. you body, all the way totate your their Approximately cancer. tumor suppressor genes. resting or offinyour maythese have a postural The healthier andthe Bahamian population, 55 to 65imbalpercenthead. of women with In In certain individuals, ance, a footthe problem and/ more stable your BRCA 1 gene mutation will body thereisis a disproportionately high BRCA tumor suppressor genes or afuncleg length inequality the more likely shock of BRCA 1 and BRCA develop breast cancer by the agethis number have mutations and do not that could be the cause of is either dissipated or mutations in both men htion gravity and heel strike 2 gene properly in their important of 70 years old. your hip pain. BRCA 1 geneabsorbed safely. But if yourwomen and unfortunately ock if in it suppressing is good health mutations can and role or preventing The feet are the foun- feet are not in their corhcancer good formation. posture ensuralso lead to a more aggressive this results in large numbers of dation of your body; they rectly functioning position a When stable frame. But if form of breast cancer. women being diagnosed in the a BRCA 2 support gene iseverything above at all times, more of this u mutated, have slight An estimated one in 300 CauBahamas with an aggressive form it ispostural not effective at balances and/or mis- them, including the hips. shock is allowed to move repairing broken DNA and help- casian American men have the of breast cancer at an earlier age gnment, those forces can Feet function something through the body and care to ensure that you BRCA 2ofgene mutation. Some and Bahamian ing to prevent prostate benefit men from being properdiaghip, the basement a weaken other joints includdually cause a varietyboth of like studies have determined of cancer, breast cancer certainif the kneeaggressive and foot forms alignment. house; basement ing the hips. that nosed with nful conditions which and the incidence of BRCA 2 mutaprostate cancer at earlier ages other cancers. You have nothing to lose doesn’t support the weight There is no time like the y affect not only your menchiropractic is than menbutwithout BRCA cell in our bodyof contains that painthe in your hip. 2 the floors tions aboveinit,African stress American present to start s, Every but anything from gene mutation. DNA and this DNA is continually approximately one in 100. Those of Ashkenazi Jewish A pioneering gene-targeted damaged by various factors. The cells in our body undergo ancestry have a one in 40 drug that has been licenced for a daily cycle of DNA damage and incidence of BRCA 2 gene breast and ovarian cancer treatment, has promising benefits for repair. The repair mechanisms are mutations. It is estimated that one in men with prostate cancer and the controlled by genes such as the six men of African ancestry BRCA 2 gene mutations. The BRCA 1 and 2 genes. BRCA 2 genes play a far will develop prostate cancer in drug olaparib has shown to have more important role in prevent- their lifetime. Men of African an 80 percent positive treatment ing prostate cancer in men than or Caribbean ancestry in the response for BRCA 2 gene mutathe BRCA 1 genes. The BRCA United Kingdom have a one in tion men with prostate cancer. The drug Olaparib targets 2 gene mutation is associated five lifetime risk of developing
WITH HIP PAIN
cancer cells that aren’t able to repair their damaged DNA due to BRCA 1 or 2 gene mutations. Phase 3 trials of this promising drug are ongoing and gene targeted prostate cancer treatment may play an important role in prostate cancer management in the near future. The BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 gene mutation is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern from a mother or a father. Each child of a parent with the BRCA gene mutation has a 50 % (1 in 2) chance of inheriting the gene mutation. Men having either a BRCA 1 or 2 gene mutation does not necessarily mean that they will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime; it just increases the risk when compared to men without the gene mutation. BRCA 1 and 2 gene • Dr Susan Donald can mutation tests are available be reached at Life Chiro- locally. Some the available tests look practicofCentre, 9B Village specifically harmful BRCA 1 Road. Call at 393-2774. or BRCA 2 gene mutations that have already been identified in another member of the family. Bahamian men with a strong family history of breast and or prostate cancer should be very diligent in obtaining annual prostate cancer screening in the form of a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood tests every year starting at the age of 40. Men with known BRCA 2 or 1 gene mutations
or a strong family history of first degree relatives being diagnosed before the age of 50 with prostate cancer should start prostate cancer screening at the age of 35. Bahamian men should also consider genetic testing for BRCA 1 and 2 gene mutations so that they are made aware of their increased risk for developing prostate cancer in their lifetime. Men are also at risk of developing breast cancer. The good news: the prostate cancer specific survival rate for early detected, low-risk organ confined prostate cancer at 10 years is approximately 99 percent. Prostate cancer is a very treatable disease, with an excellent potential cure rate, when diagnosed early. Early detection for prostate cancer offers excellent cure rates. Seek comprehensive, confidential and compassionate care for prostate cancer screening and management.
EAR, OU CLASSES FOR MOMS-TO-BE GO ONLINE DURING QUARANTINE By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net
• Dr Greggory Pinto is a board certified Bahamian urologist and laparoscopic surgeon. He has trained in Germany, South Africa and France, and is a member of the European Association of Urology. He can be contacted at The Surgical Suite, Centreville Medical Centre, #68 Collins Avenue/Sixth Terrace; telephone: 326-1929.
is an emotional time, future generations. The and being pregnant team caters to the during a pandemic unique and ever only makes the emochanging needs WITH the ongoing tional burden that of a mother, spequarantine due to the much heavier. cifically during COVID-19 pandemic, the “This certainly the pregnancy team at Prenatal Pamper- is not what any and post-partum ing debated whether they mother, especially periods. should cancel their planned first-time mothThey have been Spring classes. But Brenika ers, envisioned the providing perinaSmith, a certified childbirth journey would be tal spa services for educator, and her team like. So many milethree years now ultimately agreed: “Babies stones have been and proud to be are still coming, and babies taken away from trusted by moms don’t get cancelled.” them due to social and doctors alike, So Prenatal COACH Pampering, distancing, for offering treatments HEALTH also known as “A Mother’s example a baby that are therapeuSpa”, decided to make its shower. I wanted tic and relaxing. At classes available online. to provide access home services are that if youofare the reallyvirtual serious you Topics to childbirth also provided for wouldn’t wait until the new year classes include: COVID-19 classes so expectwomen who to start working a new you. precautions and onchanges ing moms can still actively while at are on bed guide to They say setting New Year’s to thealso maternity hospital participate in some part of home is to reduce the level CHILDBIRTH educa-the rest for a make informedtruly deciworking on becoming failure and that you should give can stay on track together. of fear and uncertainty that resolutions is a complete waste of system; coping techniques their journey and increase portion tor Brenika Smith of match version of yourself. up on setting goals and working will cover: time. can lead to We chronic stress, sions that best for early and active labour; their chances of a satisfying of their Prenatal Pamperand is an exciting time and I pregThis towards them. It might just mean can • cause Goal-setting action values plan I wholeheartedly which healthand their stages of labour, anddisagree when with birth memory,” she said. ing is now sharing am grateful that I get to share nancy, you believe can try another way to in development. both of the these simply underbecause you“I that both mom and priorities.” to go to hospital; firmly that problems helpful tips for with you so that we all can be in or who get it done. • Progress tracking and Prenatal Pamand you alone determine when baby. standing birth hormones every mom benefits from expecting mothers a better place at the end of 2020. may find This being the first month of the monitoring. you are ready to make the change. She added: “I want all pering is located plus anatomy and physiolan informed pregnancy and in online classes. You deserve to be happy andit difficult year, I am going to be sharing in • Building your support system. So if this is the time of year that in the Advanced ogy; communication and birth, and that every family parents to feel confident, youCentre deserve to get everything you deptha with youhealthy my top strategies topics are essential you decided is best for you, then Family Medicine supported These and three powerful decision-making skills; deserves safe, to leave their let’s get to it! developingI ahad system will navigate to creating structure willSpawant. let’s getsupport, to it. and that Medi on So Shirley as they theirthe path labour and breast- birth to experience. to that homes shortly notalternative only keep you with enable you to and be successful. Now basics. if you are anything like Street. The Ms Smith said after giving birth. through pregnancy feeding find an way on to track Ethan your goals all year, but that about this is it thatwas you can me you extremely have set imporNew Year’s created• You to can sup-contact“I’m birth. The best goalpart of each class It was provide the information inensure a Quant Lamaze internaethan@elite-wellnesssoluyou of smash them. Iand will be using then take accurate these same principles. resolutions in the to past and probport, inform,at celebrate is to offer essential, tant for Ms Smith create this time quarantine tional certified childbirth Instagram(LCCE at @ ) and a forpractices. my personal Andinformation apply them toand otherpamper areas tions.com ablynew failed sticking to them. women, or all on educator andjourunbiased this virtual platform for It’s socialexamples distancing ethanquant. OK, that doesn’t mean you areThe a overall ney, past and present, so that we of your life to ensure that you are moms-to-be, as pregnancy goal for moms that moms can use as a working towards stronger certified massage therapist
ETHAN QUANT
specialising in pregnancy and post-partum body work. I was raised in a family of predominantly women. My grandmother birthed five girls who later became mothers and raised children of their own. So besides my professional encounters with women, in my personal life I have witnessed the positive impact women have in the household and community when they are properly supported and nurtured,” said Ms Smith. So far, the feedback from expecting mothers about the virtual classes has been so positive that Ms Smith said they are considering keeping them going even once things go back to normal. “This something we hope to continue, even after the lockdown is lifted. Although the preference is still in-person classes, I feel the online platform is perfect for moms on the Family Islands that may not have access to a local childbirth educator,” she said.
LIFE LINES – ATHINGS MINDONECHANGER THE SECRET IS TAKING DAY AT A TIME
THE TRIBUNE
TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020, PAGE 11
THE THIS current year that is restrictions almost done imposed on filled our with movements are has been many changes frustrating but although they areone working for me, and or two andwere are more for our We thanprotection. a little challengcaning all atagree on that. the time, they The havebest now mostly potenthing to doturned right out nowtoishave to accept tially positive outcomes as I look these circumstances, challenging forward. as they may be. I don’t reviewnot myjust year All Usually of us are vulnerable at the Year’s to this virustraditional but to anyNew infections stage, butwhich wait until or diseases showmyupbirthday from in February to take stock the time to time. The only way to of stop negatives and positives before the drawing spread isa to do what we have line under them and been asked - self-isolating, sanitisvisualising what I would like ing to andmake distancing arecoming in a happenifinwethe public space. This means me, you months. and everyone, of inusa totally have This year isnone ending special powers which magidifferent way thanmight I originally callyanticipated act as a shield to from protect us. it but far feeling is an ending I am imbued with Doctors and – nurses are not an uplifting of the spirit as well as exempt from getting COVID19; gratitude and postheya deep may sense be a of relative, friend or itivity that at the neighbour, weI have need arrived to protect place am supposed to for be emothem as Ithey try to do us. tionally intellectually. Quite They can’t and help you if they are a surprise to me, I take quarantined. We although need toassettle a moment to really think about down and adopt a “take one it, there are several people day who at ahave time” attitude. To calmmental our contributed to this anxiety, let’s bydeal withme theto here shake-up causing think anddifferently now, not and what may orsome mayof re-assess not my happen tomorrow thoughts or the day less productive and after. The safety measures we work habits. are asked to take are based on
Life lines
Victoria Sarne “Sometimes we all need a Life-line and sometimes all we need is a Life-line” scientific/medical evidence. It is reliably predictable that if we do We all need help of some sort not regulate in this way, from time toourselves time, even helpers more people fallbeen ill blessed and the need help andwill I have virus keepold circulating for an with will friends, and relatively extended as long can new, whoperiod supported me as in it varifind us. It’s before not picky ous hosts ways - -that’s sometimes I choosing its victims. doesn’t even recognised that It I needed their assistance andorsometimes matter who we are where we live.
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The lesson like to it or not, COVID19 strongly in me but atwe’d other times That in itself was a new energy enthusiasm not lethal, anything specific like to do.experience. is that although he was physically vided and a nasty, sometimes gets overlay ofandmessage – thatof no matter his how only for my work but my life in Wecovered need towith havethe reassurance incapable changing particudemonstration. Person to person, day-to-day and business think we have In my previous column I councertainty busyness that freedom of choicemuch larwecircumstance ormastered, location he general. did community to community, and then it is timeWe, to stop, reflect is allow alwayshis another wrote about and this - and is always ours. among otherstherenot mind layer to betoimpristry to confidence country worldwide and re-direct my thinking. reveal and another perspective to kind of help for emotional, perall over the world, are currently oned, no matter how unjust the now we have to live with that. After several false starts at help us find the answers that we sonal or professional reasons, unable to do this as voluntary selfpunishment. He trained himself to We have far more hope than attempting to write a novel (which seek. with the right coach, is a valuable isolation has not beenupadhered patient, summoning up courage, Mandela hadI initially have invariably ended being to Sobe this is a thank you to David tool for changingmust lives,have which by everyone. It’s aafter natural reac-Holis, tenacity to enable becauserecommend. we do know that even ditched in frustration two or who isand veryendurance generous with can personally Skeption chapters, for us to we arehis him survive his long ordeal one nothire be over as three as feel I hadasnoif clear timetooffering a 30-minute tical nothough more –this aftermay all, we prisoners in Iour own the homes. day at free a time. His story(He was one as we would like, it will idea of where wanted char-ButWhatsApp consultation. trainersquickly at the gym for our bodies, the key word is “feel”. Instead that should been called eventually be over acters or the story to go next) out ofis currently livinghave in Greece). I so ait makes even more sense ifto we are of“feel” the blue, the one I was our always his gentle as hegave qui- it that get ourpatient. minds in shape to we givethink us rationwe must employ brainslikedtragedy, yetmanner he never The more meant to write presented itself in etly description, but probingly askedthink me all possible lives. is asked of us and and think. didn’t of itour as bestally, do what my If head I am happily right lost. questions to direct my up by • Victoria is anas entrewe and make thenow effort, we canthe time He refused to give accept Sarne each day it comes, the two-thirds of attitude the way and through it attention to what really wanted preneursafer andwe writer. She headed control our feel more cultivating theI ability to overcome are. Think - one day at a and know exactly where if it is going and helped by menot define a teamtime to establish shelter for comfortable because none of usto achieve his circumstances, succumb- and youa will get through it. - are a very satisfying feeling. Good I intended to get to that That’s abused women and Sarne childrenis inan entreactually incarcerated, the onlyhowing to emotional reactions. • Victoria orprison bad, read unread when pubHe then guidedpower me through and was its writer. first chairbarsor I see are the ones in ourpoint. where personal lies, in Canada our preneur and She headed lished, the sense of achievement very specific steps to identify woman. You can reach her at heads. There was a recent graphic brains. So let’s use them. a team to establish a shelter for will be knowing that I accom- and concentrate my thoughts on victoria.conversations@gmail. on Facebook of goal. Nelson Mandelathe practical Our scenario abused women and children in plished my creative and logicaldoesn’t efforts even com, visit www.lifelineswritingwith the step caption of hisit out veryinrealI needed remotely resemble his my - forservice.com, a Canada and467-1178. was its first chairThe next of getting to make to adjust or call time served in jail. 27 years! startway we ofaggravated YouHolis can can reach the public domain requires a dif-Youbrain’s processing this and probLife woman. coach David be her at all know storyalthough and thePR injus-where lemnecessary ourselves by not embracing ferent skill the set and abandoning old reachedvictoria.conversations@gmail. via WhatsApp at + 33 6 ticepublicity done to him by locking thethat restrictions were com, and is another parthim of uphabits no longerwe serve me asked 73 07 80 66.visit www.lifelineswritingserin isolation at Robben Island, yet
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THE APPLIANCE OF SCIENCE TO GIVE BARBIE A MAKEOVER
THE WEATHER REPORT SALT LAKE CITY Associated Press
Nadkarni joined a team astronaut in 1965. of female scientists advising “Barbie allows girls to try Mattel as it made the line of on new roles through stoWHEN Nalini Nadkarni dolls that includes a marine rytelling by showing them 5-Dwas ay aForecast TODAY TONIGHT WEDNESDAY SATURDAY kid, she’d run home biologist, THURSDAY astrophysicist, FRIDAY they can be anything and, from school, climb into one photojournalist, conserva- through our partnership of the eight maple trees in tionist and entomologist. with National Geographic, her parents’ backyard and Sales began in the girls can now imagine themspend an afternoon there summer. As a thank-you, selves as an astrophysicist, ORLANDO Partly sunny, warm Mainly clear Partly sunny,Mattel warm Sunshine, warm and sunny,marine warm Sunshine, humid and with an apple and a book. sent Nadkarni aMostly polar biologist and and humid and humid humid and humid warm High: 93° F/34° C That time in the treetops one-of-a-kind doll with tree- more,” said Lisaremaining McKnight, Low: 74° F/23° C High: climbing 86° High: 86° manger High: 86° set the tone for the rest of gear and86° full dark High: general of Barbie High: 85° Low: 75° Low: 76° 74° her life: She’s now a forest hair woven Low: with strands of Low: Dolls74° for Mattel. Low: 74° AccuWeather RealFeel AccuWeather RealFeel AccuWeather RealFeel RealFeel AccuWeather RealFeel ecologist at theTAMPA University white thatAccuWeather made the doll AccuWeather It’s RealFeel not known, though, 94°-80° F 78° F 93°-81° F 95°-82° F 95°-80° F 94° F High: 89° F/32° C of Utah who’s dedicated resemble the scientist. how career Barbies might The exclusiveholds AccuWeather RealFeelcreated Temperature islook an index that combines the effects of temperature, wind, humidity, sunshine intensity, cloudiness, precipitation, pressure Low: 76° F/24° C ECOLOGIST Nalini Nadkarni a Barbie to like and elevation on the human body—everything that affects howFor warm Nadkarni, or cold a person feels. the high and the lowaspirations. for the day. her career to studying rain her when she’s climbing into the theTemperatures compa- reflectaffect kids’ A treetops to study the rainforest forest canopies. N canopy. Photo: Rick Bowmer/AP ny’s investment in the dolls 2014 study by Oregon State She’s also always looking reflects a broader culturalalmanac University found that girls for new ways to get people to re-fashion the iconic W SheE scoured thrift stores shift toward recognisingStatistics are for Nassau through p.m. yesterday who played with 2the dolls ABACO interested in science, from dolls as a scientist-explorer and women in science,N math andTemperature told researchers they could S eBay for Barbie dolls 82° F/28° C that could spark High ................................................... 86° F/30° fashion made with nature in rubber boots rather than and enlisted help from vol-High:technology do fewer jobs than boys —C Low .................................................... 77° F/25° C E Low: 76° F/24° C W 8-16 knots imagery to science lectures high heels. if they played with aC unteer seamstresses. She an appreciation for scienceNormaleven high ....................................... 81° F/27° low ........................................ 69° F/20° C at the state prison. Barbie. called the creation “Treetop even among kids Swho don’tNormaldoctor “Lots of girls, and some WEST PALM BEACH Last year’s high ................................. 88° F/31° C “I’ve tried for years little boys, love Barbie,” end up entering the field. Last year’sThe study didn’t 73° examHigh: 91° F/33° C and began selling Barbie” low ................................... F/23° C 7-14 knots Low: 78° F/26°at C cost on her website. and years to bring the sci- Nadkarni said. “It’s almost Mattel said in a state-Precipitation ine the girls’ reasoning, but them p.m. yesterday ................................. 0.00” ence I do and understand aspirational, speculated that Last year, Mattel began ment that the purpose ofAs of 2researchers they want to FT. LAUDERDALE FREEPORT to date ................................................. 2.69” to people outside of aca- be Barbie.” High: 89° F/32° C Barbie dolls for the last 60Year Barbie might be an inherN High: 86° F/30° C working with National GeoNormal year to date ..................................... 5.30” F/25° C 15 years Low: F/24° C demia,” sheE said. years has been to “inspire ently sexualised doll, said graphic to create a 76° new line ThatLow: was77°about W Her childhood memories ago. Nadkarni said Bar- of scientist Barbies. Nad- the limitless potential in associate professor Aurora S particularly intermade her bie-maker Mattel MIAMI wasn’t karni has a longstanding every girl,” pointing out Sherman, who worked on ELEUTHERAthe paper. Forecasts and graphics provided by ested7-14 inknots reaching children. interested in the idea that Barbie was portrayed then, High: 90° F/32° Crelationship with National High: 81° F/27° C AccuWeather, Inc. ©2020 NASSAU F/26° C Geographic, so when the After her own 6-year- so she decided Low: in other science and to 79° redo Low:math76° F/24° C Putting the same doll in High: 85° F/29° C long before old daughter asked for a dolls herself, using gear she non-profit reached out for based careers a professional outfit likely Low: 75° F/24° C Barbie, Nadkarni decided collected. the new line, including as an won’t do much to change help, she quickly agreed. N KEY WEST CAT ISLAND E W ®
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perceptions about what women can do, she said. But it might help to use it as a starting point for conuV inDex toDay versations about women in science and math. “Its really going to depend on how that doll is experienced, and what The higher AccuWeather Index number, the adults are thedoing toUVdrive need for eye and skin protection. home greater thatthemessage,” she said. tiDes For assaugives Barbie’s iconnstatus the doll cultural High sway, Ht.(ft.) and Low Ht.(ft.) theToday new 1:40 dolls have the a.m. 2.8 8:15 a.m. 0.2 potential to thep.m. 0.2 2:10 normalise p.m. 2.1 8:16 idea of women in2.6science Wednesday 2:43 a.m. 9:20 a.m. 0.3 and engineering, 3:16 p.m. said 2.1 Kris 9:22 p.m. 0.4 Macomber, a sociology pro-a.m. 0.4 Thursday 3:47 a.m. 2.5 10:21 4:20 p.m. 2.1 10:27 p.m. 0.4 fessor at Meredith College in Raleigh, North 4:45 a.m. Carolina. 2.5 11:15 a.m. 0.3 Friday p.m.have 2.2 been 11:25 p.m. 0.4 Barbie 5:17 sales increasing as a.m. the becomes Saturday 5:37 2.5 12:01 p.m. 0.3 6:05different p.m. 2.3 body --------available in Sunday and 6:22 a.m. 2.5 12:15 shapes careers, buta.m. 0.3 6:47so p.m.much 2.5 a12:42 there’s only toyp.m. 0.2 a.m. 2.5 1:00 a.m. 0.2 canMonday do to7:03 change broader 7:26 p.m. 2.6 1:18 p.m. 0.1 attitudes about what professions chosen by girls as theysgrow up, m she said. un anD oon “Barbie does not hold all 6:48 a.m. Moonrise 1:38 a.m. theSunrise power to change cul- 12:27 Sunset 7:32 p.m. Moonset p.m. ture,” Macomber said. “But Last First New Full it does contribute.”
Apr. 22
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marine Forecast ABACO ANDROS CAT ISLAND CROOKED ISLAND ELEUTHERA FREEPORT GREAT EXUMA GREAT INAGUA LONG ISLAND MAYAGUANA NASSAU RAGGED ISLAND SAN SALVADOR
Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday: Today: Wednesday:
WINDS SE at 7-14 Knots S at 8-16 Knots SE at 7-14 Knots SSE at 7-14 Knots ESE at 7-14 Knots SE at 6-12 Knots E at 8-16 Knots ESE at 7-14 Knots ESE at 7-14 Knots SSE at 7-14 Knots SSE at 8-16 Knots S at 10-20 Knots SE at 7-14 Knots SE at 7-14 Knots E at 8-16 Knots E at 7-14 Knots E at 8-16 Knots ESE at 6-12 Knots E at 8-16 Knots ESE at 7-14 Knots SE at 6-12 Knots SSE at 6-12 Knots E at 8-16 Knots ESE at 7-14 Knots SE at 7-14 Knots SE at 7-14 Knots
WAVES 3-6 Feet 3-5 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 3-5 Feet 2-4 Feet 3-6 Feet 2-4 Feet 3-6 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 1-2 Feet 3-6 Feet 2-4 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet 4-8 Feet 4-7 Feet 1-2 Feet 1-3 Feet 2-4 Feet 2-4 Feet 2-4 Feet 1-3 Feet
VISIBILITY 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles 10 Miles
WATER TEMPS. 76° F 74° F 82° F 82° F 73° F 74° F 80° F 80° F 78° F 78° F 82° F 84° F 81° F 82° F 80° F 80° F 80° F 79° F 79° F 79° F 79° F 80° F 80° F 80° F 79° F 79° F
SECTION D
TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020
MEMES on social media show the lockdown life in stages of Beyonce’s hair styles.
Quarantine beauty
HOW TO KEEP NATURAL HAIR HEALTHY AT HOME By CARA HUNT Tribune Features Writer cbrennen@tribunemedia.net FOR many Bahamian women, the weeks of quarantine have not only meant a loss of socialising and moving about freely, but also the loss of their natural hair care maintenance routines. Social media is filled with memes and posts from women complaining about their appearances. Of course, as beauty salons are not considered to be essential services they remain closed for the time being. “It is definitely rough in these isolation streets,” said Tiffany. “I am one of those girls who hates washing my own hair and detangling it. In fact, I honestly didn’t even have any shampoo at my house because I usually go to the salon at least every other week, but I had to dash out and buy some, and trust me, washing my hair was an all-day ordeal; I hated it.” Shana told Tribune Woman she regrets getting her natural hair bleached right before the health pandemic hit the Bahamas. “I got my hair bleached at the beginning of March and the last thing my hairdresser told me was to make sure I come every two weeks to get hot oil treatments so that the bleach doesn’t damage my hair. I never even got to go to the first treatment,” she said. “I am soaking my hair as often as I can with coconut oil and just trying to take as good care of it as possible.” Meanwhile, Christy says she regrets not getting her and her daughter’s hair braided before the curfews and restrictions were implemented. “Looking back, honestly, I would have sent my husband to the grocery store and me and the girls would have gotten our hair braided. It would have just made being at home easier. I wouldn’t have to be fighting to comb hair every day and we would just look a lot nicer which would make us feel better. Now my daughters running around like troll dolls,” she joked. Tribune Woman also spoke to Shantell Da Braider, a natural hair stylist, who encourages all the ladies out there to use this down time when you don’t have to style your hair every day for work to practice healthy hair habits.
“If you can, try to do twists in you hair; wash it, condition it, and then put it into small sections and twists...or you can use the time to try to some kind of braid, or plaits that are protective styles,” she said. Shantell also recommends making sure that your hair is properly conditioned. “This is a great opportunity to treat your hair to some at-home pampering,” she said. This can include making your own hot oil treatments using coconut or olive oil, or as she suggests, using rice water which can function line a conditioner and detangler. Her suggestion is a rice water rinse. “When you wash your hair in rice water it makes it grow faster thicker and stronger. It will also make your hair shinier,” she explained. Using rice water to achieve luxurious tresses is not new. There are reports that Asian women washed their hair in rice water from as early as the sixth century. Rice water contains amino acids B and E vitamins, as well as minerals and antioxidants. Here is how to make rice water at home. There are two ways you can prepare the rice and it boils down to a matter of preference (no pun intended). You can either use water you have cooked or soaked rice in, or you can ferment water which has rice in it. The choice is really determined by which method an individual feels they see the most results from. Directions Rinse a half cup of rice and place in 2 to 3 cups of water. You may either boil the rice or soak the rice for at least 30 minutes until the water becomes cloudy and then strain the rice into a clean bowl. You can go one step further and let your rice water ferment. After you strain the rice, place it in a sealed jar and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours and then refrigerate until ready for use. (Note, it will be very potent and will need to be diluted by adding a cup of warm water. It will also smell quite pungent): How to use rice water • Wash hair • Pour rice water onto hair and massage it into the hair • Leave on hair for up to 20 minutes • Rinse from hair using warm water
BIOCHEMIST TURNED AUTHOR OFFERS SEVEN STEPS TO ACHIEVE SIX-INCH HAIR GROWTH By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net BACK home from college, financially broke, and looking for natural hair care products she could actually afford led Keshia Smith down the route of cooking up her own hair treatments right in her kitchen. “As a recent college graduate, of course I was broke, and natural hair products in The Bahamas are extremely expensive. So I decided to put my biochemistry degree to work and create all-natural, vegan products that not only restored my hair but helped it grow. I believe that whatever you put on your body should be good
enough to put in it,” she told Tribune Woman. Keshia came up with her “Simply Natural”
brand - organic hair and skin care product line made in The Bahamas which includes shampoo,
deep conditioners, hair growth oil and moisturisers, as well as natural skin care products like African black soap, raw shea butter and coconut sugar body scrubs. To her customers, the 28-year-old is known as “The Oil Lady”, as oilbased products to restore edges and encourage length is what she first launched her brand with. She believes every woman, girl - and curl - deserves to learn, grow and shine. And to help women achieve this shine, she recently released an e-book called Journey to 6 Inches of Hair Growth. “Journey to 6 Inches is an easy seven-step guide on growing longer, healthier hair. This book will help build a hair regimen that is
easy to follow by providing easy instructions that, with consistency, will allow you to see growth in a shorter time frame. It also provides my favourite DIY recipes to promote healthy long hair,” said Keshia. The motivation for putting together the e-book came from her doing the “big chop” of her own hair not one, but three times. “One was from heat damage and the other colour damage. The steps provided are the steps I have taken time and time again to grow my hair longer and faster. So many times during hair consultations women ask me what I’ve done to grow my hair, so I decided to make the e-book outlining the steps. By using these steps along with a growth oil, I got six
inches of hair growth in six months, which is major, because scientifically the average person can expect to grow six inches of hair per year,” said Keshia. But she is points out that every step outlined in the book is realistic; there are no magic tricks, no pills or special potions, just factual information. “Some women want six inches of hair in one month and that is not possible. I want my readers to grasp that, with consistency, any hair can grow. Everyone can have ‘growing hair’ once you build a regimen, be consistent with that regimen, and most importantly, trust the process,” she said. • Keshia Smith’s e-book is available online at www.simplynaturalco.com.