Book Event - Epigenomic Awareness as a Key to Black Mental Health: The Disruptive Effects of Not Knowing
Sat, May 24
|Sankofa Video, Books & Cafe
Join Dr. Benson Cooke as he discusses the powerful connection between genetics, environment, and mental health, and how understanding epigenomics can help improve well-being in the community!
Time & Location
May 24, 2025, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Sankofa Video, Books & Cafe, 2714 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
Guests
About The Event
About the book
Epigenomic Awareness explores the intricate ways in which external factors, particularly experiences of racism and discrimination, influence gene expression in the African American community. The authors delve into the field of epigenetics, revealing how such factors can lead to significant health disparities, including higher rates of obesity, heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes.
By examining processes like DNA methylation, histone modification, and the role of microRNAs, they highlight the biological mechanisms behind these changes and go on to discuss how modifying environmental influences like stress, diet, and exercise can potentially reverse these epigenetic alterations, offering hope for improved health outcomes.
This essential read underscores the urgent need for further research and targeted interventions to address the unique health challenges faced by African Americans.
About the Authors
Dr. Benson George Cooke is a Distinguished Professor of Counseling and Psychology at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), in…