February 21, 2024 • 26 mins
When trauma nurse practitioner Tamika Jones shares her profound experiences from two decades in healthcare, it's an invitation to unravel the tapestry of genetics with personal zeal. Teaming up with Tamika, we journey through the intricate realm of genetic information, tackling the necessity of its ethical application and the vigilant prevention of its potential abuse. Her voice is one of inspiration, as she divulges her recovery story and her zealous advocacy for those in underserved communities, shedding light on the nuances of delivering culturally sensitive care amidst the high-stakes trauma bay.
Grasping the threads of genetics empowers us to weave a narrative that bolsters patient advocacy and informed decision-making. The narrative recalls the poignant tale of Henrietta Lacks, propelling us into a discussion on the sanctity of consent and the foundational ethics healthcare providers must uphold. As we dissect the far-reaching implications of genetic knowledge on society, from legal conundrums to the safeguarding of personal data, we arm you, our listeners, with actionable strategies to protect yourselves from the misuse of your most intrinsic blueprint.
The conversation doesn't end at the ethical crossroads of genetics. We advocate an ethos of curiosity and proactive health management, examining how innovative treatments like IV hydration therapy can uplift our well-being. Tamika illuminates the potential of these therapies filled with vitamins and antioxidants to fortify the immune system and enrich the lives of those grappling with chronic ailments. We wrap up our dialogue with the collective ambition of continuing this vital conversation, inviting you to join us in future sessions where your queries take center stage, further solidifying our commitment to demystifying the complex yet fascinating world of genetics.
Grasping the threads of genetics empowers us to weave a narrative that bolsters patient advocacy and informed decision-making. The narrative recalls the poignant tale of Henrietta Lacks, propelling us into a discussion on the sanctity of consent and the foundational ethics healthcare providers must uphold. As we dissect the far-reaching implications of genetic knowledge on society, from legal conundrums to the safeguarding of personal data, we arm you, our listeners, with actionable strategies to protect yourselves from the misuse of your most intrinsic blueprint.
The conversation doesn't end at the ethical crossroads of genetics. We advocate an ethos of curiosity and proactive health management, examining how innovative treatments like IV hydration therapy can uplift our well-being. Tamika illuminates the potential of these therapies filled with vitamins and antioxidants to fortify the immune system and enrich the lives of those grappling with chronic ailments. We wrap up our dialogue with the collective ambition of continuing this vital conversation, inviting you to join us in future sessions where your queries take center stage, further solidifying our commitment to demystifying the complex yet fascinating world of genetics.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:04):
P23 Knowledge, access , power.
P23, wellness and Understandingat your fingertips P23.
And that's no cap.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
Welcome back to Demystifying DNA, your guide to
the captivating world ofgenetics where we unravel
complex scientific concepts foryour understanding and
engagement.
I'm your host, Dr TiffanyMontgomery, CEO Scientist,
(00:42):
Epidemiologist and your friend,Joined by my insightful guest
today, Tamika Jones.
Tamika is a trauma nursepractitioner in Kennesaw,
Georgia, with over 20 years ofhealth care experience.
Tamika is a proud mom, nurseand member of Zeta Phi Beta
(01:10):
Sorority Incorporated.
She is co-founder and co-ownerof Mind, Body and Soul IV
Hydration and Spa, located inMarietta, Georgia.
They can be found on Instagramat MindBody, underscore soulatl.
You can call them at770-308-5011 or book your
(01:35):
appointment online and find outmore at MindBodySoulAtlcom.
Welcome, Tamika, Thank you.
Thank you for having me.
We're excited to have you today.
Tamika is such a passionatecaretaker and powerhouse in the
field of medicine that I couldnot go without inviting her to
this episode.
(01:56):
You're welcome.
In today's episode, genetics andappropriate use, misuse and
abuse we embark on anenlightening exploration of how
our understanding andapplication of genetics can have
a profound effect on society.
Our mission is to demystify,uncode and understand genetics
(02:21):
as if it was our own business,making it accessible and
relatable to everyone, Whetheryou're a science enthusiast or
simply just a curious personlike me.
We want you to know about theresponsible use of genetic
information.
As we delve into the ethics andimplications of genetic
(02:44):
knowledge, we aim to shed lighton the appropriate use,
potential misuse and preventionof genetic abuse.
Let's embark on this journeytogether, decoding the complex
world of genetics for a betterinformed future.
So, Tamika, we talked about youbeing a nurse, practitioner and
in healthcare for over 20 years.
(03:05):
Yes, Tell me what inspired youto become a nurse practitioner.
Speaker 3 (03:11):
So at the age of 17, I was ejected from a car, had to
learn how to walk again, butthe nurses were amazing.
So that prompted me wanted tobe a nurse and as I grew in my
nursing career I desired anautonomy to affect change on a
(03:31):
higher scale.
So I decided to go back toschool and become a nurse
practitioner so that I can havethat autonomy to develop
treatment plans and actuallyadvocate for people like us in
my field.
Speaker 2 (03:46):
So when you talk about being an advocate and
helping to advocate for people,especially the people who are,
like us, underserved, not alwaysgiven the same level of service
as our counterparts in society,tell me a little bit more about
how you advocate or what'simportant when you are
advocating.
What is advocating?
Speaker 3 (04:07):
So advocating is understanding different nuances
that might belong just to theAfrican American or Hispanic
communities.
We tend to be very stoic, andso we might have high blood
pressure.
But the blood pressure mightnot just be because we're
hypertensive.
It might be because we're inpain or that we're stressed out
(04:29):
about a situation, and so beingable to see through those
barriers and speak, be a voicefor people of color, is pretty
amazing.
An example would be someonecomes into the trauma bay and
they're in pain, but they'requiet, so they don't want to say
(04:53):
anything, and people assumethat because they're quiet, they
must not be in pain, but theirblood pressure is 190 systolic.
In those moments you have toask the questions and find out
and then mediate, so things likethat.
Speaker 2 (05:09):
So one of the things that I took away from what you
said which you really said a lotright, so I appreciate that.
But one of the key points thatI heard you talk about is
understanding, and I think thatit's important as we talk about
what does it mean to demystifygenetics?
(05:29):
You cannot explain something orarticulate it if you don't
understand it.
So one of the things we have towork on to push is the
understanding, so that you knowhow to speak up for yourself,
how to communicate what you needor a loved one, and create more
(05:49):
patient advocates, just throughunderstanding, not being afraid
to say I feel pain.
You have to be informed enoughabout your body to know my
normal blood pressure is not 190over 110.
Help me right.
Or, unfortunately, if it is.
You have to be informed enoughto say to my primary cure doctor
(06:12):
I think I need to have bloodpressure medicine because every
day I take my blood pressureit's in the 190s.
So how we do that is by havingconversations like this and we
work on making these things moreaccessible.
I think when you understand, itchanges your access level, just
because you have anunderstanding of what you need.
Speaker 3 (06:35):
Right and to further explain how I advocate right.
There's difficult conversationsthat need to be had between
providers so that they can alsohave an understanding, but
that's a whole other side ofthings Whole another side.
Speaker 2 (06:52):
So there are multiple conversations that are going to
go into creating thatunderstanding.
But, like you said, it's adialogue.
It's constant right, correct?
So what are some of the ethicalconsiderations that you have
seen in your career surroundingthe responsible use of genetic?
Speaker 3 (07:10):
information.
I think that the most profoundthat we can talk about would be
Henrietta Lacks and the use ofher cells to create.
Henrietta Lacks and the use ofher cells to create all types of
vaccines and cures fordifferent diseases without her
(07:33):
knowledge.
How do we protect ourselvesfrom situations like that?
You go into the hospital andyou expect people to be
responsible with your bloodtissue samples or what have you,
and then you end up in such acontroversial situation.
First of all, you saidunderstanding, right.
So if we don't understand whatis going on around us,
(07:55):
procedures that are being doneto us, we have to not be afraid
to open our mouth and ask thequestion what are you doing and
why are we doing this?
Speaker 2 (08:02):
So we talked about Henrietta Lacks and I wanna go
into more detail about HenriettaLacks because everybody may not
know.
Sometimes things happen and wethink about all of the good that
they provide.
But I wanna dig into that alittle bit more and what I would
(08:23):
like to just say is that fromthe use of the cells belonging
to Henrietta Lacks, we developedsomething or created something
that was cloned and massproduced in the laboratory site
called HeLa cells is the shortname for them and with the HeLa
(08:46):
cells we have been able tounpack and understand so much
about the human body, how itwill respond.
It's created the whole field ofin vitro diagnostics.
I would like to make sure thatour listeners understand.
Henrietta Lacks was really animportant person in science.
(09:08):
She lived in the 1950s anddoctors took some of her cells
when she was sick with cancer.
It was a type of cervicalcancer.
These cells were specialbecause they kept growing and
dividing outside of her body,unlike most cells.
When you take out most cellsthey will die.
So we as scientists call themHeLa cells and they're named
(09:33):
after Henrietta Lax.
These HeLa cells have helped todevelop many experiments and
learn about a wide number ofdiseases, not just cancers and
how to treat them.
They have been used to developvaccines, study cancer and do
all sorts of medical research.
(09:53):
The problem is, henrietta Laxdid not know her cells were
taken and her family didn't knowfor many years.
But today we remember her andhonor her for her important
contribution that was made toscience.
Absolutely, while she haschanged science in ways that we
(10:14):
could never truly say thank youenough for, it's still important
that we know what is going onwith our body.
You may have a cell that couldchange science, but it's up to
you to give consent for somebodyto study that, to clone that,
to mass produce that.
When it happens without yourconsent, that's misuse and abuse
(10:38):
, correct.
What are some of the potentialimplications that you can think
of that affect genetic knowledgeon society today?
Speaker 3 (10:48):
Aside from science being changed right, there's
also ways to gather people's DNA, to use it in a legal sense in
investigations and things likethat Also it's ethical.
Speaker 2 (11:05):
It's not really.
When we get into the ethics,there are not really laws
governing ethics.
It's up to us to be responsible, compassionate, empathetic,
level-headed human beings.
To say this may be a violation.
Let me ask.
Let me not overstep my boundary.
Speaker 3 (11:24):
That is based on someone's own morals and values.
If you think about the spectrum, all of us carry ourselves
differently.
How is this person thinking?
Gathering my cells, my tissue,my blood?
What have you?
Speaker 2 (11:43):
We see it all the time, especially when you're
working in your hospitalcapacity, you're drawing the
bloods, you're taking thesetissue samples.
How do we, as healthcareconsumers, prevent genetic abuse
and misuse when we're insituations that we can't control
, like at a hospital or going tothe doctor or you're giving
(12:07):
that lab sample?
How do we not, as providers I'mnot talking about as providers
what information could we giveto our consumers?
Speaker 3 (12:22):
I would have to say ask questions, ask all the
questions.
If there's anything that youare unsure of, ask the questions
, speak up for yourself.
As providers, we are requiredto inform the consumer In order
to get the information.
(12:42):
You would have to ask thequestion Whoever is gathering
your tissue, blood samples orwhat have you?
Ask them what they're doingwith it?
If you have not signed aconsent for treatment, then you
need to ask them.
Hey, do you have consent forthis?
Speaker 2 (13:00):
Another thing that I would say that I've seen on the
lab side of it is you performthe consent.
I've had clients, customers,ask what happens to this sample
after you finish the test.
Legally, we're only allowed totest for exactly what you give
(13:21):
us consent for.
Meaning if you send your sampleto the lab to be tested for HPV
and I'm looking for humanpapillomavirus I have no right
to look for HIV, chlamydia,gonorrhea or anything else
without your express writtenconsent.
(13:41):
We've come up with some HIPAAlaws and some patient protection
laws to try to stop that kindof thing.
But if you can't get an answer,don't send the test.
And another thing that I'veseen in many, many years of
working in the lab people willput notes and it will say
destroy my sample after use.
(14:02):
I didn't know that was a thing.
That is a thing.
I've seen it.
I encourage people to write it.
It doesn't matter what theyhave written on there.
You write it, you initial itand you date it, test it for
exactly this and destroy mysample Correct A lot of times in
the lab will save them for aperiod of time, as it's required
(14:23):
by the federal government, orfor retesting purposes.
Let's say the first one didn'twork.
So you may run the risk of, ifyour first test not work, you
may have to give another sample,but for a lot of people, in
many situations, it's more peaceof mind.
For me, you'd come back to meand recollect a new sample.
Then for you to save thatsample and use it again for the
(14:44):
test that I ordered, or anyother research test that you
want to do, is not okay.
So you protect yourself bybeing informed, reading the fine
print and, after you read it,put your own instructions on
there as to what you want tohappen.
What I would like to know ishow do we, aside from having
(15:05):
conversations like what we'rehaving now, how do we empower
individuals to make sure theyhave the knowledge to understand
the complexity of genetics?
What are some things that youwould recommend as a nurse,
practitioner and advocate foryour patients?
What could you?
Speaker 3 (15:21):
recommend I would have to say that's difficult
other than asking questions.
I mean, that's the biggestthing is ask the question and
when you get an answer, ask itagain, check that answer.
Well, what is it?
What is it called the fiveyeses or what have you?
Five questions?
When you ask multiple questionsand you reform them, oftentimes
(15:45):
you can get more informationout of that person.
So you might say, hey, what areyou gonna do with my sample?
Oh, you know, these tests areordered, okay, so what are you
gonna do after you run the tests?
And then after that, you know,and who else is looking at my
sample, have you?
Speaker 2 (16:04):
noticed in your profession and I don't talk
about you in general, but maybewhen you look at interactions,
do people in the medical fieldor in the hospital industry kind
of get frustrated when peopleask questions?
Absolutely.
Speaker 3 (16:19):
Because we're on a timeframe, right, we have 15
patients and we gotta do allthese 15 things, and so I don't
have time to sit here and listento you, but it's your time to
advocate for and so asking thequestions, even if they do get
frustrated, you know, get theanswers that you need.
Speaker 2 (16:37):
So if someone gets frustrated with me, would that
change the quality of care thatI might receive it?
Speaker 3 (16:42):
could, but you also have the option of asking for
another provider or anotherhealthcare or caretaker.
You don't have to deal withthat.
You are entitled to information.
Speaker 2 (16:55):
So I agree with you 100%.
I also advocate for knowingthings before you get in that
situation, because what I foundis when things are intense and
you're in the heat of the momentof I just found out, oh my God,
I have cancer.
Or I just found out, oh my God,I have HIV.
It is so important tounderstand these things before
(17:20):
you get to that oh my God moment.
So never stop asking questions.
Correct.
We want to promote.
You know things have become inthis day and age.
When you hear about curious orcuriosity, you immediately think
about sexuality.
It has so much more of ameaning than that and it is okay
(17:41):
to be curious, it is okay toask questions, because curiosity
is that light that keeps youburning, it keeps you going
right.
So I like promoting curiosity,understanding and engagement.
I would like us to get to thepoint, even on this platform,
where people are able to call inand ask their questions and
(18:06):
have that open dialogue.
I spend a lot of time goingback through the comments and
trying to answer the questions,but when you think about a
podcast like ours that's airedon so many platforms, it can be
extremely challenging, of course.
So, as we encourage thesequestions and we encourage these
(18:27):
dialogues.
We advocate for ourselves.
We understand our rights.
I want to make sure that thatplatform is there for people to
have their questions answered.
While I'm not a medical doctor,I am a scientist and I do have a
wealth of information andquestions that you can ask your
doctors, your providers andreally take charge of your
(18:50):
health.
We believe in being proactiveand we believe in prevention and
with that it is a perfectalignment with self care and
taking care of your own temple.
You have the ability to me toreally be a self care guru and
(19:12):
you can tell people all about it.
You're in a very uniqueposition, but I wanted you to
tell us a little bit about selfcare, how you define it and then
how mind, body and soul.
Iv hydration, as by, is a partof that self care journey.
Speaker 3 (19:26):
Okay so self care right Self explanatory is taking
care of yourself, but not onlyas far as your health is
concerned, but also your mentalhealth, your body, your
spiritual health, making surethat you're in tune with whoever
your higher power is orwhatever it is that gives you
(19:48):
energy, and making sure thatyou're hydrated.
Right so, at mind, body, soul,we do IV hydration.
We're mobile and we have anoffice, so we offer either to
our clients and IV hydration ismore than just getting a bag of
(20:09):
fluids so that I can feelhydrated and not have a dry
mouth.
You know there's vitamins andsupplements that can build up
the immune system and build upthe body as a whole.
There's antioxidants that canalso help protect your DNA in
certain senses.
Right, help with longevity.
We did a podcast on longevity.
(20:29):
Absolutely Build up yourmitochondrial health, so
increase your energy levels.
Right so, mind, body, soulwould plan to self care, as in
getting, you know, at least oncea month, iv treatment to build
yourself back up with all of theoxidative stress that we face
out in the world chemicals,radiation, exhausts from
(20:54):
vehicles and things like that.
This just kind of helps toreinforce your immune system.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
So wait, you're telling me that if I'm at home
not feeling well let's say I'mdehydrated, maybe I have a
hangover or maybe I have the fluI can call you and you'll come.
Absolutely Wow, that is amazing.
And are you noticing?
People actually feel betterwhen they have these fluids
(21:20):
replaced.
Speaker 3 (21:21):
Oftentimes they start to feel better as we're giving
them fluids.
So hydration is big, we're 75%water, right, and so we don't
drink enough.
But this is the equipment togiving you one to two gallons of
water, backing your system,that you would never be able to
drink in 30 to 45 minutes.
Right.
So it's been an interestingendeavor, but I have seen a lot
(21:46):
of people's lives change.
People who had chronic urinarytract infections because they
didn't drink enough water andnow they get drips every two
weeks and they haven't been backto the hospital for urinary
tract infection, didn't have anyissues on their lab work, so it
really can be a game changer asfar as longevity and overall
health is concerned.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
Last week we talked on our episode about GLP-1s and
weight loss and we find peoplewho are some people who are
going on those medications arehaving problems with nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea.
It might be a perfectcombination to introduce IV
hydration where you areexperiencing those symptoms.
(22:27):
That will really help get youback on track and alleviate some
of that.
Another thing I came to mindwhen you started talking people
who have gastric surgeries orgastric issues and their tummies
really can't hold that muchwater, but they need a lot of
water and fluids.
So it's amazing to have aresource like that that we can
(22:48):
contact.
We have a membership program atP23 Health and I would love to
put a link for you on ourwebsite so that our local
members have someone that theycan call and say hey, I was
referred by P23, hook me upright, absolutely, absolutely.
So we'll look at that and maybewe can offer people a discount.
(23:09):
I won't put you on the spotright now, but we'll offer them
a little discount off of theirfirst service and if they use
that link to book.
So I would love to do that.
You all check the website,subscribe to our Mellow List,
because once that's live, I'mgonna email you right away in
text you and say use your link.
So I'm excited.
I really am into self-care,wellness and just making sure
(23:31):
that you keep your body hydrated.
A lot of people now are tryingto lose weight and get those
summer bodies ready for theswimsuit.
Hydration is such a big key inmetabolism, controlling your
weight and even activatingweight loss.
So that's just research, that'snot even like a Tameka plug,
(23:51):
like that's just facts.
So I am excited to have you.
Thank you for coming,absolutely Thank you for having
me.
Is there any last words?
Speaker 3 (24:03):
No, I think I'm good.
This has been interesting.
I hope to come on later.
We'll do something else.
Speaker 2 (24:09):
I hope to bring you back for questions, because I
know my listeners always havequestions and they love to
engage.
Every couple of episodes we tryto get together, bring all the
guests back and just havequestions.
So I would love to have youagain, if nothing else, for that
or for other topics in thefuture.
This has been a blast.
We are grateful to have you aswe conclude our illuminating
(24:35):
exploration of genetics andappropriate use, misuse and
abuse.
Myself, dr Tiffany Montgomery,that curious lady and nurse,
tameka Jones, extend ourheartfelt gratitude for joining
today's conversation.
Throughout this episode, wedelved into the ethical
considerations surrounding theresponsible application of
(24:57):
genetic knowledge, highlightingthe importance of using genetics
for the betterment of society,while safeguarding against
misuse and abuse.
At Demystifying DNA, our coremission is to empower
individuals with the knowledgeand understanding necessary to
navigate the complexities ofgenetics.
We hope this episode hassparked your curiosity and
(25:20):
enhanced your understanding ofthe responsible use of genetic
information, fostering a moreinformed and ethical approach to
the genetic realm.
Stay engaged, keep questioningand continue to join us on
Demystifying DNA, where we makethe wonders of genetics
(25:41):
accessible to all.
Together, let's explore thepossibilities and implications
of our genetic makeup and showin the future, where genetics is
used appropriately, responsiblyand ethically.
Remember, we're here to guideyou through the genetic journey,
making science easy tocomprehend and meaningful.
(26:02):
And lastly, don't forget, we'rewith you every step of the way.
Speaker 1 (26:15):
P23,.
Knowledge, access, power P23,.
Wellness and understanding atyour fingertips P23.
And that's no cap.
P23 Knowledge, access , power.
P23, wellness and Understandingat your fingertips P23.
And that's no cap.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
Welcome back to Demystifying DNA, your guide to
the captivating world ofgenetics where we unravel
complex scientific concepts foryour understanding and
engagement.
I'm your host, Dr TiffanyMontgomery, CEO Scientist,
(00:42):
Epidemiologist and your friend,Joined by my insightful guest
today, Tamika Jones.
Tamika is a trauma nursepractitioner in Kennesaw,
Georgia, with over 20 years ofhealth care experience.
Tamika is a proud mom, nurseand member of Zeta Phi Beta
(01:10):
Sorority Incorporated.
She is co-founder and co-ownerof Mind, Body and Soul IV
Hydration and Spa, located inMarietta, Georgia.
They can be found on Instagramat MindBody, underscore soulatl.
You can call them at770-308-5011 or book your
(01:35):
appointment online and find outmore at MindBodySoulAtlcom.
Welcome, Tamika, Thank you.
Thank you for having me.
We're excited to have you today.
Tamika is such a passionatecaretaker and powerhouse in the
field of medicine that I couldnot go without inviting her to
this episode.
(01:56):
You're welcome.
In today's episode, genetics andappropriate use, misuse and
abuse we embark on anenlightening exploration of how
our understanding andapplication of genetics can have
a profound effect on society.
Our mission is to demystify,uncode and understand genetics
(02:21):
as if it was our own business,making it accessible and
relatable to everyone, Whetheryou're a science enthusiast or
simply just a curious personlike me.
We want you to know about theresponsible use of genetic
information.
As we delve into the ethics andimplications of genetic
(02:44):
knowledge, we aim to shed lighton the appropriate use,
potential misuse and preventionof genetic abuse.
Let's embark on this journeytogether, decoding the complex
world of genetics for a betterinformed future.
So, Tamika, we talked about youbeing a nurse, practitioner and
in healthcare for over 20 years.
(03:05):
Yes, Tell me what inspired youto become a nurse practitioner.
Speaker 3 (03:11):
So at the age of 17, I was ejected from a car, had to
learn how to walk again, butthe nurses were amazing.
So that prompted me wanted tobe a nurse and as I grew in my
nursing career I desired anautonomy to affect change on a
(03:31):
higher scale.
So I decided to go back toschool and become a nurse
practitioner so that I can havethat autonomy to develop
treatment plans and actuallyadvocate for people like us in
my field.
Speaker 2 (03:46):
So when you talk about being an advocate and
helping to advocate for people,especially the people who are,
like us, underserved, not alwaysgiven the same level of service
as our counterparts in society,tell me a little bit more about
how you advocate or what'simportant when you are
advocating.
What is advocating?
Speaker 3 (04:07):
So advocating is understanding different nuances
that might belong just to theAfrican American or Hispanic
communities.
We tend to be very stoic, andso we might have high blood
pressure.
But the blood pressure mightnot just be because we're
hypertensive.
It might be because we're inpain or that we're stressed out
(04:29):
about a situation, and so beingable to see through those
barriers and speak, be a voicefor people of color, is pretty
amazing.
An example would be someonecomes into the trauma bay and
they're in pain, but they'requiet, so they don't want to say
(04:53):
anything, and people assumethat because they're quiet, they
must not be in pain, but theirblood pressure is 190 systolic.
In those moments you have toask the questions and find out
and then mediate, so things likethat.
Speaker 2 (05:09):
So one of the things that I took away from what you
said which you really said a lotright, so I appreciate that.
But one of the key points thatI heard you talk about is
understanding, and I think thatit's important as we talk about
what does it mean to demystifygenetics?
(05:29):
You cannot explain something orarticulate it if you don't
understand it.
So one of the things we have towork on to push is the
understanding, so that you knowhow to speak up for yourself,
how to communicate what you needor a loved one, and create more
(05:49):
patient advocates, just throughunderstanding, not being afraid
to say I feel pain.
You have to be informed enoughabout your body to know my
normal blood pressure is not 190over 110.
Help me right.
Or, unfortunately, if it is.
You have to be informed enoughto say to my primary cure doctor
(06:12):
I think I need to have bloodpressure medicine because every
day I take my blood pressureit's in the 190s.
So how we do that is by havingconversations like this and we
work on making these things moreaccessible.
I think when you understand, itchanges your access level, just
because you have anunderstanding of what you need.
Speaker 3 (06:35):
Right and to further explain how I advocate right.
There's difficult conversationsthat need to be had between
providers so that they can alsohave an understanding, but
that's a whole other side ofthings Whole another side.
Speaker 2 (06:52):
So there are multiple conversations that are going to
go into creating thatunderstanding.
But, like you said, it's adialogue.
It's constant right, correct?
So what are some of the ethicalconsiderations that you have
seen in your career surroundingthe responsible use of genetic?
Speaker 3 (07:10):
information.
I think that the most profoundthat we can talk about would be
Henrietta Lacks and the use ofher cells to create.
Henrietta Lacks and the use ofher cells to create all types of
vaccines and cures fordifferent diseases without her
(07:33):
knowledge.
How do we protect ourselvesfrom situations like that?
You go into the hospital andyou expect people to be
responsible with your bloodtissue samples or what have you,
and then you end up in such acontroversial situation.
First of all, you saidunderstanding, right.
So if we don't understand whatis going on around us,
(07:55):
procedures that are being doneto us, we have to not be afraid
to open our mouth and ask thequestion what are you doing and
why are we doing this?
Speaker 2 (08:02):
So we talked about Henrietta Lacks and I wanna go
into more detail about HenriettaLacks because everybody may not
know.
Sometimes things happen and wethink about all of the good that
they provide.
But I wanna dig into that alittle bit more and what I would
(08:23):
like to just say is that fromthe use of the cells belonging
to Henrietta Lacks, we developedsomething or created something
that was cloned and massproduced in the laboratory site
called HeLa cells is the shortname for them and with the HeLa
(08:46):
cells we have been able tounpack and understand so much
about the human body, how itwill respond.
It's created the whole field ofin vitro diagnostics.
I would like to make sure thatour listeners understand.
Henrietta Lacks was really animportant person in science.
(09:08):
She lived in the 1950s anddoctors took some of her cells
when she was sick with cancer.
It was a type of cervicalcancer.
These cells were specialbecause they kept growing and
dividing outside of her body,unlike most cells.
When you take out most cellsthey will die.
So we as scientists call themHeLa cells and they're named
(09:33):
after Henrietta Lax.
These HeLa cells have helped todevelop many experiments and
learn about a wide number ofdiseases, not just cancers and
how to treat them.
They have been used to developvaccines, study cancer and do
all sorts of medical research.
(09:53):
The problem is, henrietta Laxdid not know her cells were
taken and her family didn't knowfor many years.
But today we remember her andhonor her for her important
contribution that was made toscience.
Absolutely, while she haschanged science in ways that we
(10:14):
could never truly say thank youenough for, it's still important
that we know what is going onwith our body.
You may have a cell that couldchange science, but it's up to
you to give consent for somebodyto study that, to clone that,
to mass produce that.
When it happens without yourconsent, that's misuse and abuse
(10:38):
, correct.
What are some of the potentialimplications that you can think
of that affect genetic knowledgeon society today?
Speaker 3 (10:48):
Aside from science being changed right, there's
also ways to gather people's DNA, to use it in a legal sense in
investigations and things likethat Also it's ethical.
Speaker 2 (11:05):
It's not really.
When we get into the ethics,there are not really laws
governing ethics.
It's up to us to be responsible, compassionate, empathetic,
level-headed human beings.
To say this may be a violation.
Let me ask.
Let me not overstep my boundary.
Speaker 3 (11:24):
That is based on someone's own morals and values.
If you think about the spectrum, all of us carry ourselves
differently.
How is this person thinking?
Gathering my cells, my tissue,my blood?
What have you?
Speaker 2 (11:43):
We see it all the time, especially when you're
working in your hospitalcapacity, you're drawing the
bloods, you're taking thesetissue samples.
How do we, as healthcareconsumers, prevent genetic abuse
and misuse when we're insituations that we can't control
, like at a hospital or going tothe doctor or you're giving
(12:07):
that lab sample?
How do we not, as providers I'mnot talking about as providers
what information could we giveto our consumers?
Speaker 3 (12:22):
I would have to say ask questions, ask all the
questions.
If there's anything that youare unsure of, ask the questions
, speak up for yourself.
As providers, we are requiredto inform the consumer In order
to get the information.
(12:42):
You would have to ask thequestion Whoever is gathering
your tissue, blood samples orwhat have you?
Ask them what they're doingwith it?
If you have not signed aconsent for treatment, then you
need to ask them.
Hey, do you have consent forthis?
Speaker 2 (13:00):
Another thing that I would say that I've seen on the
lab side of it is you performthe consent.
I've had clients, customers,ask what happens to this sample
after you finish the test.
Legally, we're only allowed totest for exactly what you give
(13:21):
us consent for.
Meaning if you send your sampleto the lab to be tested for HPV
and I'm looking for humanpapillomavirus I have no right
to look for HIV, chlamydia,gonorrhea or anything else
without your express writtenconsent.
(13:41):
We've come up with some HIPAAlaws and some patient protection
laws to try to stop that kindof thing.
But if you can't get an answer,don't send the test.
And another thing that I'veseen in many, many years of
working in the lab people willput notes and it will say
destroy my sample after use.
(14:02):
I didn't know that was a thing.
That is a thing.
I've seen it.
I encourage people to write it.
It doesn't matter what theyhave written on there.
You write it, you initial itand you date it, test it for
exactly this and destroy mysample Correct A lot of times in
the lab will save them for aperiod of time, as it's required
(14:23):
by the federal government, orfor retesting purposes.
Let's say the first one didn'twork.
So you may run the risk of, ifyour first test not work, you
may have to give another sample,but for a lot of people, in
many situations, it's more peaceof mind.
For me, you'd come back to meand recollect a new sample.
Then for you to save thatsample and use it again for the
(14:44):
test that I ordered, or anyother research test that you
want to do, is not okay.
So you protect yourself bybeing informed, reading the fine
print and, after you read it,put your own instructions on
there as to what you want tohappen.
What I would like to know ishow do we, aside from having
(15:05):
conversations like what we'rehaving now, how do we empower
individuals to make sure theyhave the knowledge to understand
the complexity of genetics?
What are some things that youwould recommend as a nurse,
practitioner and advocate foryour patients?
What could you?
Speaker 3 (15:21):
recommend I would have to say that's difficult
other than asking questions.
I mean, that's the biggestthing is ask the question and
when you get an answer, ask itagain, check that answer.
Well, what is it?
What is it called the fiveyeses or what have you?
Five questions?
When you ask multiple questionsand you reform them, oftentimes
(15:45):
you can get more informationout of that person.
So you might say, hey, what areyou gonna do with my sample?
Oh, you know, these tests areordered, okay, so what are you
gonna do after you run the tests?
And then after that, you know,and who else is looking at my
sample, have you?
Speaker 2 (16:04):
noticed in your profession and I don't talk
about you in general, but maybewhen you look at interactions,
do people in the medical fieldor in the hospital industry kind
of get frustrated when peopleask questions?
Absolutely.
Speaker 3 (16:19):
Because we're on a timeframe, right, we have 15
patients and we gotta do allthese 15 things, and so I don't
have time to sit here and listento you, but it's your time to
advocate for and so asking thequestions, even if they do get
frustrated, you know, get theanswers that you need.
Speaker 2 (16:37):
So if someone gets frustrated with me, would that
change the quality of care thatI might receive it?
Speaker 3 (16:42):
could, but you also have the option of asking for
another provider or anotherhealthcare or caretaker.
You don't have to deal withthat.
You are entitled to information.
Speaker 2 (16:55):
So I agree with you 100%.
I also advocate for knowingthings before you get in that
situation, because what I foundis when things are intense and
you're in the heat of the momentof I just found out, oh my God,
I have cancer.
Or I just found out, oh my God,I have HIV.
It is so important tounderstand these things before
(17:20):
you get to that oh my God moment.
So never stop asking questions.
Correct.
We want to promote.
You know things have become inthis day and age.
When you hear about curious orcuriosity, you immediately think
about sexuality.
It has so much more of ameaning than that and it is okay
(17:41):
to be curious, it is okay toask questions, because curiosity
is that light that keeps youburning, it keeps you going
right.
So I like promoting curiosity,understanding and engagement.
I would like us to get to thepoint, even on this platform,
where people are able to call inand ask their questions and
(18:06):
have that open dialogue.
I spend a lot of time goingback through the comments and
trying to answer the questions,but when you think about a
podcast like ours that's airedon so many platforms, it can be
extremely challenging, of course.
So, as we encourage thesequestions and we encourage these
(18:27):
dialogues.
We advocate for ourselves.
We understand our rights.
I want to make sure that thatplatform is there for people to
have their questions answered.
While I'm not a medical doctor,I am a scientist and I do have a
wealth of information andquestions that you can ask your
doctors, your providers andreally take charge of your
(18:50):
health.
We believe in being proactiveand we believe in prevention and
with that it is a perfectalignment with self care and
taking care of your own temple.
You have the ability to me toreally be a self care guru and
(19:12):
you can tell people all about it.
You're in a very uniqueposition, but I wanted you to
tell us a little bit about selfcare, how you define it and then
how mind, body and soul.
Iv hydration, as by, is a partof that self care journey.
Speaker 3 (19:26):
Okay so self care right Self explanatory is taking
care of yourself, but not onlyas far as your health is
concerned, but also your mentalhealth, your body, your
spiritual health, making surethat you're in tune with whoever
your higher power is orwhatever it is that gives you
(19:48):
energy, and making sure thatyou're hydrated.
Right so, at mind, body, soul,we do IV hydration.
We're mobile and we have anoffice, so we offer either to
our clients and IV hydration ismore than just getting a bag of
(20:09):
fluids so that I can feelhydrated and not have a dry
mouth.
You know there's vitamins andsupplements that can build up
the immune system and build upthe body as a whole.
There's antioxidants that canalso help protect your DNA in
certain senses.
Right, help with longevity.
We did a podcast on longevity.
(20:29):
Absolutely Build up yourmitochondrial health, so
increase your energy levels.
Right so, mind, body, soulwould plan to self care, as in
getting, you know, at least oncea month, iv treatment to build
yourself back up with all of theoxidative stress that we face
out in the world chemicals,radiation, exhausts from
(20:54):
vehicles and things like that.
This just kind of helps toreinforce your immune system.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
So wait, you're telling me that if I'm at home
not feeling well let's say I'mdehydrated, maybe I have a
hangover or maybe I have the fluI can call you and you'll come.
Absolutely Wow, that is amazing.
And are you noticing?
People actually feel betterwhen they have these fluids
(21:20):
replaced.
Speaker 3 (21:21):
Oftentimes they start to feel better as we're giving
them fluids.
So hydration is big, we're 75%water, right, and so we don't
drink enough.
But this is the equipment togiving you one to two gallons of
water, backing your system,that you would never be able to
drink in 30 to 45 minutes.
Right.
So it's been an interestingendeavor, but I have seen a lot
(21:46):
of people's lives change.
People who had chronic urinarytract infections because they
didn't drink enough water andnow they get drips every two
weeks and they haven't been backto the hospital for urinary
tract infection, didn't have anyissues on their lab work, so it
really can be a game changer asfar as longevity and overall
health is concerned.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
Last week we talked on our episode about GLP-1s and
weight loss and we find peoplewho are some people who are
going on those medications arehaving problems with nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea.
It might be a perfectcombination to introduce IV
hydration where you areexperiencing those symptoms.
(22:27):
That will really help get youback on track and alleviate some
of that.
Another thing I came to mindwhen you started talking people
who have gastric surgeries orgastric issues and their tummies
really can't hold that muchwater, but they need a lot of
water and fluids.
So it's amazing to have aresource like that that we can
(22:48):
contact.
We have a membership program atP23 Health and I would love to
put a link for you on ourwebsite so that our local
members have someone that theycan call and say hey, I was
referred by P23, hook me upright, absolutely, absolutely.
So we'll look at that and maybewe can offer people a discount.
(23:09):
I won't put you on the spotright now, but we'll offer them
a little discount off of theirfirst service and if they use
that link to book.
So I would love to do that.
You all check the website,subscribe to our Mellow List,
because once that's live, I'mgonna email you right away in
text you and say use your link.
So I'm excited.
I really am into self-care,wellness and just making sure
(23:31):
that you keep your body hydrated.
A lot of people now are tryingto lose weight and get those
summer bodies ready for theswimsuit.
Hydration is such a big key inmetabolism, controlling your
weight and even activatingweight loss.
So that's just research, that'snot even like a Tameka plug,
(23:51):
like that's just facts.
So I am excited to have you.
Thank you for coming,absolutely Thank you for having
me.
Is there any last words?
Speaker 3 (24:03):
No, I think I'm good.
This has been interesting.
I hope to come on later.
We'll do something else.
Speaker 2 (24:09):
I hope to bring you back for questions, because I
know my listeners always havequestions and they love to
engage.
Every couple of episodes we tryto get together, bring all the
guests back and just havequestions.
So I would love to have youagain, if nothing else, for that
or for other topics in thefuture.
This has been a blast.
We are grateful to have you aswe conclude our illuminating
(24:35):
exploration of genetics andappropriate use, misuse and
abuse.
Myself, dr Tiffany Montgomery,that curious lady and nurse,
tameka Jones, extend ourheartfelt gratitude for joining
today's conversation.
Throughout this episode, wedelved into the ethical
considerations surrounding theresponsible application of
(24:57):
genetic knowledge, highlightingthe importance of using genetics
for the betterment of society,while safeguarding against
misuse and abuse.
At Demystifying DNA, our coremission is to empower
individuals with the knowledgeand understanding necessary to
navigate the complexities ofgenetics.
We hope this episode hassparked your curiosity and
(25:20):
enhanced your understanding ofthe responsible use of genetic
information, fostering a moreinformed and ethical approach to
the genetic realm.
Stay engaged, keep questioningand continue to join us on
Demystifying DNA, where we makethe wonders of genetics
(25:41):
accessible to all.
Together, let's explore thepossibilities and implications
of our genetic makeup and showin the future, where genetics is
used appropriately, responsiblyand ethically.
Remember, we're here to guideyou through the genetic journey,
making science easy tocomprehend and meaningful.
(26:02):
And lastly, don't forget, we'rewith you every step of the way.
Speaker 1 (26:15):
P23,.
Knowledge, access, power P23,.
Wellness and understanding atyour fingertips P23.
And that's no cap.
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