Miami is confronting several health-related issues with innovative solutions and community-focused initiatives. From transforming Miami Beach into a ‘Blue Zone’ to tackling mental health stigma, the city is taking steps to promote well-being for its residents. Let’s explore some of the major health initiatives in Miami.
1. A New Cancer Salon in South Florida: Helping Patients Heal and Reclaim Their Lives
In 2024, South Florida saw the opening of a unique cancer salon designed to help patients regain confidence during and after their treatment. This cancer salon, located in Pembroke Pines, provides personalized services like wig fittings, head coverings, skincare treatments, and lymphedema services. The goal is to not just treat the disease but also to support the emotional and psychological well-being of patients. Jessica Dorregaray, Estée Lauder’s Education Manager, showcased her expertise by offering makeup services at the grand opening, illustrating the salon’s commitment to empowering cancer patients to feel like themselves again.
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This initiative is part of a larger effort to provide comprehensive care to cancer patients, recognizing the importance of mental and emotional health during the healing process. The salon focuses on helping individuals “get back to their lives,” offering a safe space for self-care and recovery.
2. Tackling Mental Health Stigma in South Florida’s Minority Communities
Mental health remains a significant concern across the U.S., with emergency department visits for mental-health and substance-use disorders costing billions. In South Florida, mental health stigma remains a barrier to care, especially in Black and Brown communities. Many individuals avoid seeking help due to the fear of being judged or labeled as weak.
An article published in July 2024 by Ruban Roberts highlights this issue, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and community engagement to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. Addressing these challenges through supportive programs and conversations can make it easier for people to seek help when they need it the most.
3. Can Miami Beach Become a Healthier Place to Live? The ‘Blue Zone’ Movement
Miami Beach is working to become part of the “Blue Zone” movement—a global effort to create areas where people live longer, healthier lives. In February 2025, experts from Blue Zones visited South Pointe Park to assess the city’s strengths and weaknesses in promoting health and well-being. The goal is to implement changes that encourage healthy lifestyles, such as improved diet, exercise, and community engagement.
Blue Zones focus on creating environments where people can naturally live longer, healthier lives. Miami Beach’s efforts aim to promote these changes by enhancing public spaces, encouraging healthier food options, and fostering a sense of community among residents.
4. The Impact of Lizards on Mosquitoes and Human Health
Did you know that lizards can play a role in protecting us from diseases spread by mosquitoes? In Florida, the population of Peter’s rock agamas, a species of lizard, is growing, and they’re affecting the local ecosystem. These lizards are pushing aside native species like the brown anole, which could have a ripple effect on mosquito populations.
Researchers are studying how this shift in the reptile population might influence the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. Since mosquitoes are carriers of illnesses like Zika and dengue, understanding how lizards impact mosquito behavior could be crucial in controlling these diseases and improving public health.
Conclusion
Miami is taking an innovative and holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on both physical and mental health. Whether through the opening of a cancer salon, efforts to reduce mental health stigma, creating a healthier environment in Miami Beach, or studying the surprising benefits of lizards in controlling mosquito populations, the city is finding unique solutions to pressing health issues. These initiatives show how communities can come together to promote health and well-being in diverse and meaningful ways.