This week, I had the opportunity to keynote the Women’s Wealth and Health Equity Summit hosted by Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings and Global Policy Solutions. It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many women and men who are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of others across the country. Policy alone is not enough to make significant change—we also need action, resources, and dedication to service. 

I spoke about how choice is predicated on privilege and power. As an emergency physician, I see patients who come to me with complications of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. I can counsel them on the importance of making healthy food choices, but we also must make these options available—something that is difficult for the one in four Baltimoreans who lack access to healthy food. This is an issue of health and justice.

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With a heat index expected of between 101 and 104 degrees expected beginning tomorrow through the weekend, Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen has issued a Code Red Heat Advisory for Thursday, July 20, 2017 through Sunday, July 23, 2017. The heat index is a measure of air temperature and relative humidity and indicates how hot it feels to individuals outside.

"Heat is a silent killer and a public health threat, particularly for the young, the elderly and those in our city who are the most vulnerable," Dr. Wen said. "As Baltimore prepares for a fun weekend with one of the nation's largest free arts festivals, it is important for all residents to protect against hyperthermia and dehydration. Please be cautious and remember to stay cool and hydrated."

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Baltimore City health officials issued a Code Red heat advisory through Artscape weekend.

The heat and high humidity will make it feel like it is 105.

WBAL meteorologist Ava Marie says the extreme heat will remain through Monday.

“Heat is a silent killer and a public health threat, particularly for the young, the elderly and those in our city who are the most vulnerable,” health commissioner Dr. Leana Wen said in a statement. “As Baltimore prepares for a fun weekend with one of the nation’s largest free arts festivals, it is important for all residents to protect against hyperthermia and dehydration. Please be cautious and remember to stay cool and hydrated.”

Read the entire article. 

BALTIMORE (WJZ)–  The Baltimore City Health Department announced a $150,000 state grant to expand the “Baltimarket” program, making it easier for corner stores to carry healthy foods.

The new funds will provide credits, advertising and training to 40 more corner stores throughout the City to carry fresh fruits and vegetables.

This will bridge the gap for one in four Baltimoreans who live without easy access to healthy food.

“Baltimarket offers an innovative and effective way to increase access to fresh and healthy foods,” said Surina Ann Jordan with Maryland Community Health Resources.

“How can our patients eat well when they live in areas of food deserts? Where they have to go and take two buses or walk 25 blocks in order to get healthy fruits and vegetables,” said City health commissioner Dr. Leana Wen.

The inventory goes hand-and-hand with education; teaching customers that they can sub out unhealthy foods in their diet. The lessons come from hired youth ambassadors like high school senior Eva Wise.

“Some people were really surprised. They’re like, ‘wow, oh my gosh! They were like I need to change, I need to change,'” Wise said.

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