The insider

FOR 16 straight years, EBONY has produced a special Black Health & Fitness section, urging readers to take charge of their health by emphasizing the importance of preventive care and early intervention. And this year is no different. With so many serious conditions that disproportionately affect the Black community--heart disease, hypertension, cancer, HIV/AIDS, obesity--it's critical to become more proactive to reduce these disparities.

Research shows that, despite medical advances and new technology, the average life expectancy for African-Americans at birth is six years less than that for Whites. If we are to turn this trend around, doctors say the first thing we have to do is get our bodies in motion by establishing and maintaining a physical fitness regimen of at least 30 minutes of activity three to five days a week. Just as important are regular checkups and a well-balanced, low-fat diet that includes the appropriate amounts of fruits, vegetables and water.

As Dr. Winston Price, president of the National Medical Association, says: "Staying healthy in today's environment takes planning and serious commitment." That commitment requires continued engagement in behaviors that enhance our health, while avoiding those that do harm. Such an approach, doctors say, is an absolute necessity in the frontline battle to achieve and maintain good health.

Although the Health & Fitness section is a focal point of this issue, there is also a spotlight on achievement, beginning with sensational singer Fantasia, who reveals the most intimate parts of her amazing story, a story that includes her plunge to the depths of despair before she made her lifesaving turnaround. "Were it not for the grace of God;' she says, "I probably would be dead by now." Also included is an EBONY Salute to Women in Marketing and Communications, a showcase of some terrific, talented teenagers, and a feature on the new man (Willie Randolph) in charge of the New York Mets.

On another front, in this month's cover story, Cedric The Entertainer and Gabrielle Union, working together for the first time, shed some light on their concerns about taking a legendary TV show, The Honeymooners, and turning it into a big-screen spectacle. In addition, one of EBONY'S most popular features returns this month as we focus on Top Bachelorettes of 2005. Since it began in April 1968, the annual feature has been one of the most talked-about and anticipated mainstays in the magazine, and 37 years later there is still evidence that--year after year--perhaps there's nothing more compelling than the search for love.

COPYRIGHT 2005 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group