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Benson George Cooke, Ed.D.

Epigenetics is a rapidly developing field of study investigating how external factors can influence gene expression without causing changes in the DNA sequence. These epigenetic changes can be inherited by future generations, regardless of the presence of external factors.

Distinguished Professor of Counseling and Psychology

Benson George Cooke, Ed.D., is a Distinguished Professor of Counseling and Psychology and Director of the Graduate Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program in the Division of Education, Health, and Social Work, at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), located in Washington, DC. He the author and coauthor of several books including: (a) Personal Empowerment for People of Color: Keys to Success in Higher Education; (b) All About Depression; (c) Socio-Economic and Education Factors Impacting American Political Systems: Emerging Research and Opportunities; (d) Selected Aspects of Mentoring: Advice, Challenges, and Approaches; and (e) All About Depression: Issues, Treatment and Resources, 2nd Edition. As an invited keynote speaker, he has addressed diverse audiences at national and international conferences, symposiums, workshops, roundtable presentations, professional institutes, institutions of higher education, as well as podcasts, local and national radio and TV programs and Documentary Films. He is the recipient of the UDC Dr. Marjorie Holloman Parker Distinguished Educator’s Award and the UDC awardee for Faculty Excellence in Teaching presented by the UDC President’s Executive Cabinet. He served as the past national president of the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi) 2009–2011. Dr. Cooke received the 2016 ABPsi Distinguished Psychologist Award for his career contributions to the discipline, literature, and practice of psychology that has supported culturally salient mental health treatment for the African American community. Dr. Cooke holds Ed.D. and M.S. degrees from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and a B.A. degree from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Author’s Voice

Epigenomic Awareness as a Key to Black Mental Health explores the intricate ways in which external factors, particularly experiences of racism and discrimination, influence gene expression in the African American community.

This insightful book delves 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, the authors highlight the biological mechanisms behind these changes and 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.

Benson George Cooke, Ed.D.

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