Saturday 22 November 2025
Canadians of African Descent Health Organization (CADHO) hosted a seminar on Black Seniors’ Men’s health at the Glebe Community Centre on Third Avenue. The seminar was led by Registered Nurse Kudirat Alade-Salaam. In attendance were ten seniors and family members from Ottawa’s diverse Black community. Topics covered included diabetes, prostate health, heart health, strokes and more. Kudirat described the factors that contribute to preventable diseases. These include smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyles, lack of exercise, stress, poor diet, and social isolation. Some attendees shared personal testimonials about their health challenges. Nursing Professor Josephine Etowa, described her study on Black men’s health, which found that Black men were less likely to share their health problems with family members; therefore they often do not seek professional help for chronic conditions such as prostate- induced urinary problems, until it is too late to get the help they would need. Some attendees attributed this to the “macho” mindset in which many men assume that seeking help is a sign of weakness. It was the general opinion that this mentality needs to change if men would want to maintain good health.
Following the seminar, the seniors participated in a fun activity, making photo frames from an assemblage of different parts, under the guidance of Elder Michael Tsiagbey.
For more info on CADHO visit: Home – CADHO
