As Chief of Cardiology at Harlem Hospital Center, Dr. Fergus sees stress, poverty and discrimination as all playing an important part in the health of many urban communities particularly those of African Americans and Hispanic ethnicities. Her goal is to reach community members where they are at-either on the streets or in their heads. She told us her philosophy is to work with patients to fight heart disease as a team.

Lately, there has been a lot of talk about the health effects of having large amounts of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in our food. Even the first lady, Michelle Obama, has said she will not give her children products made with high fructose corn syrup.

Did you know that high levels of stress can affect your body in manMeditationy ways?

For instance, stress can contribute to damage and clots in the heart that keep your blood from flowing properly. This can lead to heart disease and increase your risk for heart attacks.

In recognition of Black History Month, here are some articles we thought would be of interest.

Dr. Mary T. Bassett discusses high blood pressure and salt

Alex Askew talks about the influence of people of color in the food industry

Community member Vickie Powell shares her story of getting healthy

We sat down with Dr. Mary T. Bassett, former Deputy Director of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention for New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to discuss high blood pressure in Harlem and the impact of salt on hypertension.

Whole GrainsDid you know including whole grains in your diet can help reduce the risk for stroke, diabetes and heart disease?