Study Update

American political figure, Ivy Baker Priest, said it best when she declared, "The world is round and the place which may seem like the end may also be the beginning."

The University of Mississippi Medical Center in partnership with the Mississippi State Department of Health and the Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital have had the privilege and responsibility of implementing the NCS in Hinds County since 2007. Because our five-year contract with the NICHD ends September 27, 2012, we will no longer be following the families of the NCS in Hinds County.

The Hinds County NCS Vanguard Center has been one of the most efficient and successful centers in data collection and has consistently achieved the highest level of data quality. We have been successful because of your cooperation and dedication to our study participants.

The NIH is committed to following existing NCS Vanguard Study participants until the children who enrolled as infants reach the age of 21 years. The next round of contracts, to be awarded in September 2012, will include four regional operating centers, one for each region of the country. All Vanguard Study activities, including collaboration with health care providers, will be continued by the new Southern Regional Operating Center for the NCS. You may be contacted by the new contractor to request your continued collaboration. We hope you will be willing to continue to work with the NCS.

Another part of the NCS, a larger Main Study with the goal of enrolling 100,000 children, is planned to start in 2013. It is not known at this time whether Hinds County will be included in the Main Study. A provider based sampling strategy is anticipated; The NICHD is finalizing the details of the overall sampling frame.
At this time, our main goal is to communicate to you that effective September 27, 2012 the NCS Mississippi Study Center at the University of Mississippi Medical Center will no longer be involved in the NCS in Hinds County. After that, this research will be facilitated by a different contractor for an undetermined period of time. We hope we will have an opportunity to work with you again in the future. If you have any questions, please call Becky Martin, our Medical Outreach Coordinator, at (601)815-8406.

NCS Hinds County Family Day!

On Saturday June 23, 2012, the NCS Hinds County Study Center celebrated our very first Family Day! We really wanted the opportunity to let the study participants know just how much we appreciate them. We're here to tell you that the event was fun, fun, FUN! There was a little something to do for every age group from cookie decorating, balloon animals, space jumps, tattoos, and even massages for the mothers. Don't worry we have lots of pictures to show of all the fun, ENJOY!

Family Day Invitation

Kids enjoying making balloon animals.

 Cookie decorating fun!

 Tattoo Fun

NCS Staff and YAB Members (From left: Zonzie McLaurin, Elizabeth Nichols, LaShondra Upkins, and Ariel Dawkins)

 Zonzie and LaShondra having fun!

Family Day attendee having fun!

Last but certainly not least, our very own Principal Investigator, Dr. Sharon Wyatt with a superman balloon animal! She's all smiles!

High Blood Pressure a Rising Risk for Kids, Teens: Could Lead to Greater Health Risks When Young and as an Adult

We have a very informative journal article to share with you today. As researchers of the National Children's Study, most of us are aware of the overwhelming attack on our nation's children. These attacks include everything from obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Please take a moment and read the article and remember that as John F. Kennedy reminded us in his powerful statement: 

“Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.” 

June 18, 2012 -- The number of young people sent to the hospital for high blood pressure rose steeply during a recent 10-year period, according to a new study published online in the journal Hypertension.

Hospital stays for Americans ages 18 and under due to high blood pressure nearly doubled from 12,661 in 1997 to 24,602 in 2006. The study shows that high blood pressure in young people comes with a high cost for the nation today and is setting the stage for serious health problems in the future, experts tell WebMD.

A Costly Problem Linked to Obesity

A central discovery in the study goes beyond the obvious health cost to the children and highlights the actual cost of treating high blood pressure in young people, says researcher Cheryl Tran, MD, of the University of Michigan. During this time period, these hospital stays cost $3.1 billion. The average charges for treating these young people in the hospital rose by 50%.

One of the key reasons given by researchers for this trend: obesity. According to the CDC, roughly 17% of kids and teens are now obese. Their numbers have grown steeply in recent decades. Children who are obese are more likely to have high blood pressure, according to the CDC.

In their study, the researchers point out that high blood pressure in kids is growing more common. It now affects up to 3% of American children. When the researchers looked at the hospital records of the young people, only 9.3% of the claims with high blood pressure also made a reference to obesity. But it's possible that more of the kids and teens were obese, but their records didn't make note of it, Tran says. The database they used for the study didn't contain information on the young people's body mass indexes.

Signs of Health Problems to Come

In an editorial published along with the study, Joshua Samuels, MD, of the University of Texas, writes that the "significant increases in blood pressure are likely riding the wave of pediatric obesity that is spreading across America." High blood pressure affects more kids than other problems that get more attention, such as autism or epilepsy, he writes.

Even in kids, high blood pressure can cause damage, Samuels writes, including changes in the heart. And high blood pressure often follows children into their adult years, putting them at risk of heart disease and stroke.

For Suzanne Steinbaum, DO, the study emphasizes the perils of America's weight issues. "I actually got into an argument with a cabdriver this morning" about the proposed plan to limit sodas in New York City, says Steinbaum, a preventive cardiologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York.

"This could be a huge wake-up call. When I read an article like this, I feel like standing on the buildings in New York City and screaming. Children are getting sicker and sicker as they're getting more obese. There's going to be a huge increase in heart disease and health care costs because of this," she tells WebMD.

"Children who have hypertension usually become adults with hypertension. And children who are obese usually become obese adults, with all the chronic conditions associated with that."

By Eric Metcalf, MPH
WebMD Health News

Reviewed by Hansa D. Bhargava, MD

http://children.webmd.com/news/20120618/high-blood-pressure-rising-risk-for-kids-teens

NCS Provider Champion Spotlight

Provider Champions are crucial to the success of the National Children’s Study. In an effort to continue to engage our Providers and also inform the community of our local Provider involvement,we present to you the Provider Champion Spotlight. Dr. Bouldin, the Hinds County MS Study Location appreciates you!

Shelia Bouldin, MD

Dr. Bouldin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Division, and also serves as the Ob/Gyn Residency Program Director at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Dr. Bouldin is also a member of the Hinds County Study Location Community Advisory Board. We interviewed Dr. Bouldin to get to know her better and this is what we discovered:

What is your patient care philosophy?

My philosophy on patient care is to listen to all of my patients while treating everyone with compassion and respect.

What inspires you to be involved with the National Children’s Study?

I was inspired to become involved with the National Children's Study when I realized the potential impact it could have on the overall health and quality of life of future generations. Having grown up in Mississippi and practicing medicine in Mississippi I have seen first-hand countless lives affected by preventable illnesses. I am very hopeful that the NCS can be instrumental in improving health related outcomes across generations.

What are some of the major challenges to children’s health that you feel we are facing here in Hinds County and throughout the nation?

Obesity is one of the biggest problems facing children across our state and the nation. We see obesity-related morbidity starting at very young ages.

How do you see the National Children’s Study benefiting your patients?

My patients will benefit from participating or being a part of this landmark study by knowing that they could have a tremendous impact on the lives of so many people. They can become champions for better health and a better quality of life.

Where do you see the National Children’s Study in 5 years?

Five years from now not only will the National Children's Study be a common household name, every citizen will be volunteering to participate. Five years from now we will probably have a better understanding or information on environmental factors that impact our children's lives.

Fit Pregnancy During Summer Months

We're back for our 2nd installment of our ever so popular Fit Pregnancy Corner Series! This time, since summer is officially almost here and we all know that a Mississippi summer is like none other, we want to focus on a health pregnancy during the summer months.

So we present to you- by our very own Fitness Expert & Community Outreach Coordinator, Zonzie McLaurin, "Fit Pregnancy During Summer Months!"

CONGRATULATIONS – what exciting news that you are pregnant! Being pregnant is such a wonderful time of celebration and planning – but being pregnant in the summer warrants some additional precautions and safety measures. A summer pregnancy is by no means the reason to miss out on your favorite outdoor activities, but it is important to take some extra steps to protect yourself and your baby, as well as staying fit! Follow these fit and safety tips to help you survive the summer months:

Healthy Summer Foods

A wonderful aspect of summer is all the yummy foods we can choose from. Remember, as a mom-to-be, you need to choose your foods wisely. Limit the seafood (stay away from large, predatory fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, etc.), and watch the processed foods. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and good dairy products. Also, don’t forget to eat healthy snacks throughout the day to keep your energy levels up.

Traveling

Summer brings all those fun trips that we’ve been looking forward to all winter long. If you are flying, it is important for you to fly when it’s safest and most comfortable (weeks 14-28). For roads trips, try not to spend more than six hours in the car, and take breaks to stretch, walk and go to the restroom. Also, don’t forget to pack some healthy snacks and plenty of water.

Summer Exercises

Yes, I know it’s hot but it is so important to stay healthy and fit while you are pregnant. Some very good and safe exercises for you to do in the summer are walking, swimming/water aerobics, and yoga. Take those early morning walks when it’s cool and when you have a lot more energy. Swimming or doing water aerobics allows you to feel weightless - and the water keeps you cooled off. Enjoying some practical yoga exercises can be fun and relaxing. There are a lot of videos that you can choose from - where you don’t have to get out and drive to a class. Remember to watch your heart rate when doing any exercise.

Regulate your Temperature & Staying Hydrated

I can’t express how important it is to regulate your temperature and stay hydrated. If your core temperature gets too hot it can cause some serious issues, so don’t get as hot as you normally would. Also, being pregnant requires that you keep extra fluids in your body for you and your baby. Drink lots of water, but don’t over-do-it, because too much water can be as much of a problem as too little.

Dressing for Pregnancy

Just because you are pregnant, doesn’t mean you don’t have to be Fashionably Fabulous. Remember to wear loose, light colored, natural fabrics. Cotton and linen are good choices (they allow for quick evaporation of moisture and your skin can breathe), and the lither the color, the better – it will help reflect the sun’s rays. Also, don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes - try to avoid wearing high heels.

Rest & Relaxation

Now that you are pregnant, it more important than ever to get plenty of rest and relaxation. This time in your life is special, so you need to avoid and switch from the stresses of everyday life – it’s so important for your health and your baby’s wellbeing. Get plenty of sleep (take naps during the day and get to bed early at night) and to do things that are relaxing to you. Treat yourself to a massage, it can help reduce stress and help with those aches and pains you may be experiencing.

Zonzie McLaurin, MPH, BHSA, CSCS

Community Outreach Coordinator

Disclaimer:

Before you start any exercise routine, please consult your health care provider. He/she will make sure it is safe for you to start or continue a routine or program.  Also make sure you notify your physician if you experience any type of injury, vaginal bleeding or leaking, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, muscle weakness and regular contractions during exercise or at any time.

May is High Blood Pressure Education Month

Did you know....

(Source: http://www.cdc.gov/features/highbloodpressure)

• Women are about as likely as men to develop high blood pressure during their lifetimes. However, for people younger than 45 years, the condition affects more men than women. For people aged 65 years and older, it affects more women than men.
• About 28% of American adults aged 18 years or older have prehypertension.
• In the United States, high blood pressure is more common among blacks than whites. About 44% of black women have high blood pressure.

Here are the ABC's to prevent cardiovascular disease and contribute to your overall health:

(Source: http://www.cdc.gov/features/highbloodpressure)

• Appropriate Aspirin therapy
  • Ask your doctor if taking aspirin is right for you.
• Blood pressure control
  • Keeping your blood pressure under control reduces your risk of heart attack and stroke. More than half of the world's stroke deaths are caused by elevated blood pressure levels. 
• Cholesterol management
  • Get your cholesterol checked regularly and manage it with diet and physical activity or with medication, if needed.
• Smoking cessation
  • Get help at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat a healthy diet that's low in sodium.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Prevent or control diabetes.
• Limit your alcohol intake (fewer than two drinks per day for men, or one drink per day for women).

BE HEART SMART AND PROTECT YOUR HEART!

National Volunteer Week

Volunteer: A person who voluntarily offers himself or herself for a service or undertaking. (www.dictionary.com)

In honor of National Volunteer Week, we would like to personally thank each and every volunteer that has given so freely of their time to assist or help out in any way possible for the Hinds County MS Study Location of The National Children's Study! Your smiles, positive attitudes, and dedication has helped to encourage a spirit of community building throughout Hinds County. 

Also, we'd like to give a special thanks to our very own Community Advisory Board (CAB) and Youth Advisory Board (YAB) members! Your dedication to the NCS is absolutely priceless!

NCS Hinds County Community Advisory Board

(Back Row: Paul Jones II, Billy Redd;

Fourth Row: Paul “Trey” Jones III, Shane McNeill, Dolphus Weary

Third Row: Holly Zimmerman, Mary-Ellen Stewart

Second Row: Shirley Tucker,Christianne Pinell-Jansen, Hazel Gaines, Linda Jackson-Assad

Front Row: Doris Bridgeman, Maggie Wade Dixon, Keith Tonkel)

NCS Hinds County Youth Advisory Board

(From left: Ariel Dawkins-Chair, Elizabeth Nichols, Jamilah Perkins, Jared Taylor-Vice Chair, Kensheda Brown, Andrea Leigh-Ann Kyles Not Pictured: Tori Langworthy, Sara Todd, and Nate Watson)

HAPPY NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK!

HPV Vaccine Recommended by the Committee on Infectious Diseases for both males and females

In an effort to keep all of our blog readers informed on the most up-to-date public health information, we would like to share a very informative journal article from The American Academy of Pediatrics.

The journal abstract states:

"On October 25, 2011, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that the quadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccine (Gardasil; Merck & Co, Inc, Whitehouse Station, NJ) be used routinely in males. The American Academy of Pediatrics has reviewed updated data provided by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices on vaccine efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness as well as programmatic considerations and supports this recommendation. This revised statement updates recommendations for human papillomavirus immunization of both males and females."

The article highlights several recommendations including:

1. Girls 11 through 12 years of age should be immunized routinely with 3 doses of HPV4 or HPV2, administered intramuscularly at 0, 1 to 2, and 6 months. The vaccines can be administered starting at 9 years of age at the discretion of the physician.

2. All girls and women 13 through 26 years of age who have not been immunized previously or have not completed the full vaccine series should complete the series.

3. Boys 11 through 12 years of age should be immunized routinely with 3 doses of HPV4, administered intramuscularly at 0, 1 to 2, and 6 months. The vaccine can be given starting at 9 years of age at the discretion of the physician.

Of course, we would like for you to check out the article in it's entirety, to read the article from the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, click on the following link: 

http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/reprint/pediatrics;129/3/602.pdf

We hope that you find this journal article informative, and please do share with us what you think of these new recommendations.

"A Day in the Life..."

Each and every person or position at the Hinds County MS Study Location is unique. In an effort, to show you what a typical day looks like for everyone, we present to you our "A Day in the Life" series. First up is the NCS Hinds County Outreach Team!

On Saturday, March 24, 2012, the Outreach Team participated in the annual Zippity Do Dah Carnival. The Carnival is held as a fundraising effort to support the Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital, one of our local Study partners. In addition, the Carnival, served as a wonderful avenue to help bring the community together by providing tons of fun activities for families and children.

The Outreach Team had a blast- we'll just let the pictures do the talking! Welcome to a day in the life of the Outreach team- ENJOY!

Youth Advisory Board (YAB) members Nate (left) and Ariel (right)

LaShondra (Outreach Specialist-Left) and Zonzie (Community Outreach Coordinator-Right)

LaShondra and Ariel

Zonzie decided to be brave and actually hold a Scorpion! 

Now shes's all smiles!

Zonzie and Ariel pictured with one of the world famous Clydesdales 

YAB members! (Andrea- far left, LaShondra, and Ariel- far right)

LaShondra and Sara (YAB member)

NCS Provider Champion Spotlight

Becky Bates, WHCNP

Becky Bates is currently a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner in the Department of OB/GYN at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Becky holds many certifications, including the National Certification Corporation (NCC) Board Certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, N.A.L.S. Neonatal Advanced Life Support, and S.T.A.B.L.E. (Neonatal continuing education program that focus on the post-resuscitation/pre-transport stabilization care of sick infants). Her professional memberships include the Mississippi Nurses Association, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, and the National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health. We interviewed Becky to get to know her better and
this is what we discovered:

What is your patient care “philosophy”?

Being healthy is such a blessing one that most of us take for granted, it is my mission to empower all my patients to take responsibility for their own health and ensure that they never take their health or themselves for granted.

What inspires you to be involved with the National Children’s Study?

My two sons, who are my world! I would do anything to ensure their health, happiness and success. I feel this study will help us do just that for future generations.

What are some of the major challenges to children’s health that you feel we are facing here in Hinds County and throughout the nation?

Of course poverty is major obstacle to healthcare access nationwide. Here in Mississippi poor nutrition and obesity are impacting the health of our children at alarming rates.

How do you see the National Children’s Study benefiting your patients?

By identifying health trends and practices over time, the study will help us see what is working and what is not so we can provide more effective programs and delivery of healthcare.

Where do you see the National Children’s Study in 5 years?

I believe the National Children’s Study is going to get lots of attention in the years to come as the data is collected. We are going to realize we have improved health in many ways but have a long way to go. Hopefully this study will give us a map of where to go next.

One Year Ago Today...

One year ago today, Hinds County NCS Staff, University officials, community supporters, and the local media all proudly stood on the front steps of the State Capitol to celebrate the Hinds County Study Center's "Kick Off" Rally! As we look over the past year, and reflect on all of our accomplishments, it's truly hard to believe a whole year as passed us by so quickly. Here are a few highlights from that memorable day:

Kick off Rally Media Coverage 

Hinds County Study Location NCS Staff and Supporters

Dr. Sharon Wyatt, Principal Investigator and Dr. Bev Evans, Professor Department of Pediatrics

Lastly, March 7, 2011 was officially declared "National Children's Study Awareness Day" by former Governor Haley Barbour:

So today we say "HAPPY NATIONAL CHILDREN'S STUDY AWARENESS DAY" to Hinds County, local partnering institutions, hospitals, advisory boards, and the community at large. Working together, we can help improve the health and development of children for generations to come.

Healthy Eating for Two

Being pregnant is an exciting time for mothers-to-be. So much so that some tend to go overboard and leave nutrition by the wayside. By following a few guidelines, a pregnant woman can provide the right nutrients to her developing child and hopefully avoid having health problems during pregnancy and the hard work involved in shedding all that weight after the baby is born.

Weight Gain A Natural Part of Pregnancy

Extra calories are needed in order to help the baby develop within the womb to maintain mom’s health. But how much weight gain is healthy? Normal weight gain during pregnancy ranges from 25-35 pounds. In the first trimester, a weight gain of 1-3 lbs per month is healthy. In the second and third trimester, a weight gain of 2-4 pounds per month is normally healthy. Gaining too much weight and eating foods high in fat, salt and sugar can increase a mother’s risk of developing certain complications during pregnancy such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. According to Marci Robins, MS, a registered dietitian with the WIC program at Wiser Women’s Hospital (UMMC), this can be avoided. Stick to a balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy products during pregnancy.“The foundation of a pregnant mother’s diet should include calcium, iron, protein, fiber, folic acid, B Vitamins, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C,” explained Robins. “It is important to only take prenatal vitamins that are prescribed by a doctor, nurse practitioner, or midwife. These vitamins along with a balanced diet help to prevent certain birth defects and improve fetal development.”

What to Avoid

Read the product labels. Eating foods containing cornstarch, clay, ice, and baking soda is discouraged. Robins says these foods are thought to reduce the ability of the body to absorb the nutrients needed to aid in
the baby’s development or cause adverse effects. Sorry, but no uncooked sushi. Raw or undercooked
meats, fish, poultry, or eggs and lunch meats should be avoided due to increased risk of food-borne illnesses.“Herbal teas are not considered safe during pregnancy because of unknown safety of the ingredients. Caffeine consumption should be limited during pregnancy because its effects on fetal development need to be studied more before it is suggested as safe,” states Robins. Research has shown that alcohol consumption while pregnant can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). This syndrome results in a combination of abnormalities of the face and impairment both mentally and physically.

Resources for Healthy Eating

Becoming informed is one of the best ways to ensure healthy weight gain during pregnancy. Robins reminds new and expectant mothers to take advantage of healthy food and healthy advice offered through the WIC program and www.MyPyramid.gov where a wealth of information on nutrition can be found. Ultimately, working with your health care provider is the best way to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Ways to eat a balanced diet and how to make healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise and what to avoid should also be discussed with your provider.

Becky Martin, Hospital Outreach Coordinator

Welcome to Your Fit Pregnancy Corner

The calendar says its winter, but it sure doesn’t feel like it! Here in Mississippi, we’ve been having an unusually “mild” winter, but that’s ok, we certainly can’t predict our weather so we’ve got you covered. We wanted to be sure to provide you with tips to help you survive the winter months (or lack thereof). If any of you happen to see winter, be sure to call us up and let us know!

Welcome to the first in a series “Fit Pregnancy Corner” tips:

First, congratulations on being pregnant - it is a wonderful and exciting time of your life. Second, during this season expectant moms-to-be have lots to contend with and there are advantages and disadvantages. One advantage of being pregnant in the winter is that the cooler temperatures may balance out your blazing internal thermostat, but there are some precautions you will need to take to stay healthy and comfortable. Here are some tips for making it through the season.

Seek Your Healthcare Provider. If a cough, sniff or stuffy nose just will not go away, don’t hesitate to call or see your healthcare provider. Don’t write these symptoms off, because pregnancy puts a strain on the immune system making you more susceptible to infections.

Flu Shots Are Your Friend. Before you ask, YES, they are safe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a flu shot for anyone who's pregnant during flu season — unless you've had a severe reaction to a previous flu vaccination (please consult with your healthcare provider). They help in preventing serious complications during pregnancy and protect your baby, even after birth.

Stay Hydrated. Yes, you still need to continue to drink plenty of water. During the summer months, heat is often associated with dehydration, but a lack of humidity in winter can consume every last bit of water out of an expectant mom’s body. Drink at least the eight recommended glasses of water a day, and consider adding some juices to your diet too.

Nutrition and Rest.  I want to really stress the importance of good nutrition and getting plenty of rest during pregnancy. Remember the implications of pregnancy reach beyond you to your child, and it is worth taking those extra steps to keep yourself healthy. Continue taking your prenatal vitamins, choose foods close to their nature state as possible (whole grains) fresh fruits and vegetable, and high-nutritional leafy greens. Rest is also vital to a healthy pregnancy - try getting at least 8-10 hours a night.

Layer-up. Although the external temperature may read in the low digits, an expectant mom’s internal temperature will continue to rise. Dressing in layers will allow you to add or remove pieces so you don’t overheat. You don’t need to dress where it will cause you to sweat, but be sure to cover your extremities that are prone to frostbite: nose, fingers, ears, chin, and toes.

Continue Being Active. Don’t let the winter months keep you from moving and being active. Remember that exercise is a very important part of a healthy pregnancy, and its best to exercise during pregnancy, as opposed to starting afterwards when it’s time to lose the weight. You can be creative in the winter months by, going for a walk in the mall, doing little projects around the house,

Dress for the Season. I’m all about being fashionably stylish and looking your best while pregnant (it makes you feel so much better), but remember to wear appropriate/comfortable clothing. It is wise to invest in a maternity coat, loose tops and bottoms, and boots with traction (avoid high or wedge heels). It’s important to be practical (yet adorable) while you are pregnant.

Fitness Expert

Zonzie McLaurin, MPH, BHSA, CSCS

Community Outreach Coordinator

Disclaimer:

Before you start any exercise routine, please consult your health care provider. He/she will make sure it is safe for you to start or continue a routine or program.  Also make sure you notify your physician if you experience any type of injury, vaginal bleeding or leaking, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, muscle weakness and regular contractions during exercise or at any time...

NCS Provider Champion Spotlight

Provider Champions are crucial to the success of the National Children’s Study. In an effort to continue to engage our Providers and also inform the community of our local Provider involvement,we present to you the Provider Champion Spotlight. Dr. Livingston, the Hinds County MS Study Location appreciates you!

Michael Livingston, MD

Growing up in the bayou town of Tallulah, Louisiana in the 1960s, there were few African American, male role models for Dr. Michael Livingston to follow. His parents divorced when he was five, leaving his mother and grandmother to raise him and his younger brother on a teacher’s salary. Dr. Livingston discovered his aptitude for science and began working toward a degree in Engineering. But, when he saw the accomplishments of the town’s first African American veterinarian-turned mayor, he became inspired to pursue a career in the medical profession. 

    

Dr. Livingston fell in love in his third year of medical school. Fortunately for his many patients, he fell for the specialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He’s still in love with his profession even after twenty-two years and thousands of babies delivered in Michigan, Alabama, Texas and Mississippi.

          

  “It’s the joy I see at the birth of a couple’s child,” he said.

Dr. Livingston’s patients reciprocate with cards, letters, and gifts of appreciation. These kind gestures serve to reaffirm his commitment to his profession.

As a physician who brings new life into the world, Dr. Livingston’s interests lie in the health and wellbeing of children. This is why he partnered with the National Children’s Study (NCS), the largest study of children’s health in the United States.

            “I see it as part of a process of helping to secure our children’s future,” he said.

He hopes the Study will provide new evidence as it relates to the treatment of diseases. Dr. Livingston’s particular wish is for the NCS to assist with establishing a preventive mindset in society as it relates to the ninety essential minerals and vitamins our diets lack which lead to certain disease processes.

If one word was used to describe Dr. Livingston, it would be “involved.” He’s involved in the NCS, in the lives of his patients, and in several professional capacities at Baptist Hospital. He's also an integral member of the New Hope Baptist Church where he’s active in the music, medical missions, layman, Sunday school, and health ministries.

Dr. Livingston is an avid skier and family man. He met his wife, LaDean at the Houston Ski Club. His fifteen year old daughter, Chelsea learned to ski when she was five. He hopes to teach the couple's five year old twins, Jessica and Jonathan how to ski this season.

At fifty-three, Dr. Livingston believes he’s in the best shape he’s ever been in. Even better than when he coached an intramural basketball team made up of his peers in 1978 at the summer program he attended at Harvard University. They won the championship trophy.

Dr. Livingston is still a champion today in the eyes of the National Children’s Study. Because of his support and the support of many OB/GYNs in Hinds County, the NCS is making a difference in the health and wellbeing of children in Hinds County and the nation.

Sidebar:

            Dr. Michael Livingston is the featured physician in the first NCS Provider Champion spotlighted in 2012. Dr. Livingston is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology. He received his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. He completed an internship and residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Providence Hospital in Southfield Michigan. Dr. Livingston currently serves as the Section Chief of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for the Mississippi Baptist Medical Center; a Board Member of the Medical Management Provider Relations Committee for the Mississippi HealthPartners; and, a Board Member and Secretary for the Mississippi Comprehensive Health Insurance Risk Pool Association. He is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, a member of the American Medical Association and the National Medical Association.