Las Vegas Urban League WIC: A Resource For Prenatal Infection Prevention During Black History Month

LAS VEGAS - Feb. 1, 2022 - PRLog -- Las Vegas Urban League WIC counselors are standing by this February to help expectant parents avoid health dangers of prenatal infections, while also identifying and offering advice and guidance on the many health disparities faced by racial and ethnic groups throughout Southern Nevada in recognition of Black History Month.

February is Prenatal Infection Prevention Month.  Prenatal infections are diseases babies can contract before they are born.

"Prenatal infections can be prevented by following prenatal health precautions," Semaj Bruce, IBCLC, WIC Breast Feeding Program Coordinator, said.

"These include making sure your vaccinations are up to date, seeking prenatal care and scheduling regular visits with your pediatrician during pregnancy, reducing contact with others who are sick, especially during this Covid epidemic, washing your hands regularly, maintaining a proper diet because there are many foods pregnant women shouldn't be eating, preparing food properly and making sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water during your pregnancy."

Certain racial and ethnical groups face additional health challenges, brought to the forefront during Black History Month.

African Americans were found to have the highest mortality rate for all cancers combined with any other racial and ethnic group. Asian Americans are 40 percent more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than non-Hispanic white Americans; the life expectancy for Hispanics is 81.9 years, longer than non-Hispanic whites.

"We want to assist families to eat better and live a healthier lifestyle," Rewina Tsegay,  WIC Program Nutritionist, said. "Our objective is to inform families with creditable nutrition information that will lead to a change in their eating behaviors with the goal of ultimately contributing to the quality of life and reducing the rates of obesity and chronic diseases.

"The number one cause of death in America amongst men and women is heart disease," Tsegay added. "While there are certain hereditary factors outside of our control, there are many factors that we, as individuals can control. These include not smoking, establishing a physical activity regime, and avoiding foods that are unhealthy. We provide individuals and families with nutrition education, as well as other resources needed for a healthier lifestyle."

For more helpful information, visit the Urban League WIC website at: www.wiclv.org or their two convenient locations: 6480 W. Flamingo Road, Suite B, Las Vegas, phone (702) 227-1573 or 3320 E. Flamingo Road, Suite 50, Las Vegas, phone (702) 476-9561.

The Las Vegas Urban League Women, Infants and Children Program is a 501c (3) program that is funded by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health.