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Doctors advocate fresh efforts to combat Chagas Disease, a silent killer

When Maira Gutiérrez was diagnosed with Chagas disease in 1997, neither she nor her primary care physician had even heard of the malady. She discovered her illness only by chance, after participating in a Red Cross blood drive organized by her employer, Universal Studios. Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite that causes Chagas, is transmitted through an insect called the triatomine bug, known as the kissing bug, because it usually bites close to the lips. Chagas disease affects people primarily in rural Latin America, where the insect thrives in thatched roofs and mud walls.

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Mami & Me: Life after gallbladder removal

A month after my gallbladder removal operation, I am finally beginning to feel like my old self. For the first four weeks after surgery, I was restricted to certain physical activities, such as running, bending over, working out, swimming and avoiding lifting anything heavier than 20 pounds. Now comes the most challenging part of my recovery; acclimating my digestive system to life without a gallbladder.

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Mami & Me: Gallbladder removal through Laparoscopic surgery

Last month, I went to Kern Medical Hospital to have my gallbladder removed, as I had been diagnosed with gallstones and was suffering from gallbladder attacks. My anxiety was through the roof that morning. I woke up three times before my alarm. Although I am not a religious person, I have learned that in situations like this, you must have some hope. As a result, I began praying that I would make it out of surgery alive and be reunited with my family afterward. It worked.

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As personal medical debt in Los Angeles County tops $2.6 Billion, Latinos and Blacks most harmed

About 810,000, or 1 in 10, Los Angeles County adults together owe more than $2.6 billion in medical debt as of 2021, a new analysis has found — a staggering sum that suggests extending health coverage to more people doesn’t necessarily protect them from burdensome debt. medical debt disproportionately affects the uninsured and underinsured, low-income residents, and Black and Latino populations. It said the consequences are alarming, noting that debt negatively impacts factors that determine future health outcomes, such as housing, employment, food security, and access to prescriptions and health care.

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CHARLENE DIMAS-PEINADO, CEO of Wellnest, advocates for mental health

While Mental Health Awareness Month was observed last month in May, the issue is often front-and-center for many Latinos and family members who support them in their mental health journey to recovery. 

Charlene Dimas-Peinado, is the President and CEO of Wellnest, a $32 million nationally recognized trauma informed behavioral health and housing organization in Los Angeles. She is the first Latina President & CEO of Wellnest since its founding in 1924.