African-American Healthy: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Health

Vitamin D deficiency is now known to be a major cause of health problems for many people, particularly those with a high melanin concentration. What has not been widely known until recently is just how serious the health problems are: high blood pressure and cancer have a Vitamin D3 connection. This is of particular importance for African Americans, who statistically are at greater risk of "type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, stroke, and cancer" (kidney disease alone is 320% higher for black Americans than white Americans). Dr. Walker's book is important for not only examining and explaining the problems, but for providing clear, concrete steps for prevention. Walker, who grew up in the projects in Spanish Harlem, suffered a variety of illnesses, and received his medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, writes in a very approachable way: whether explaining complex scientific, physiological, and genetic processes, or massive public health issues, Walker is easy to understand and affable. Chapters cover health issues from obesity to diabetes, explaining how issues impact African Americans, and ends with a guide to dietary supplements. Walker's effort will undoubtedly prove valuable. Illus. (July)