Dr. Cedrek McFadden, or Dr. C as he’s commonly known, is a prominent double board-certified surgeon in Greenville, South Carolina. Dr. C has an uncanny ability to communicate complex medical issues such as colorectal cancer, hypertension and diabetes to people in a clear, easy-to-understand manner. A specialist in African American health, he is currently a Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Greenville. He has been featured on CBS, NBC, Fox and MSNBC as well as in Dr. Oz: The Good Life, Essence, Reader’s Digest, Prevention, and Shape.
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BELLA spoke to Dr. C about health and how best to maintain it…
How did you get interested in becoming a doctor? Was it a calling?
In my childhood, I was drawn to all things related to medicine. I eagerly watched shows on TLC where surgical procedures were performed. I volunteered to assist various family members with chronic medical illnesses and in taking their medicine. One summer during high school, I had the opportunity to volunteer in the hospital. That experience gave me access to areas in the hospital I had never seen, and solidified the calling into medicine as one I wanted to answer.
What are the most pressing health concerns in the African American community?
A common theme concerning the health of African Americans is healthcare disparities. For years we have seen the disproportionate effects of colorectal cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease in this community. COVID-19 exposed these disparities even more with African Americans having an increased risk of getting and dying from COVID. While we have uncovered the underlying reasons for many of these disparities, we have not successfully connected all the intervening factors to lead to their resolution. Until we do so, these diseases will continue to be disproportionately present in future generations.
What is the most useful piece of advice that anyone can do to maintain their health?
“Let food be your medicine.” Many of the common health problems I see stem from diets high in fats, salt, and sugar. Unfortunately, patients then require multiple prescriptions to treat these problems, costing hundreds of dollars while having the potential for side effects. Treat your body well by making good food choices, exercising, and avoiding harmful habits such as smoking. Doing so will lead to many benefits for your body and your mind.
To learn more about Dr. Cedrek McFadden:
Instagram: @cedrekmd
Website: https://cedrekmd.com/
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