At only 37 years old, Philly-based rapper Freeway has been diagnosed with kidney failure. The diagnosis came after her he underwent a routine checkup and had to be rushed to a Philadelphia hospital for emergency dialysis treatment.
He has since undergone several treatments and is currently hospitalized. The diagnosis occurred only days prior to Freeway’s FreeFest, which was scheduled to be a daylong concert in Philadelphia.
Freeway, who was once a prominent artist on Jay Z’s defunct Roc-A-Fella Records, has raised an important issue that relates to the hip-hop generation. When it comes to health, is enough being done to raise awareness?
Some of the lifestyle choices that are promoted by some artists can have negative long-term effects on the body. Alcohol abuse, the recreational use of cough syrup, and other forms of drug use can lead to permanent damage over the years.
Food consumption can also be problematic for urban youth who live in food deserts. When fast food is the primary option, the incidences of diabetes and obesity increase significantly.
But there are certain artists who have made it a point to promote healthier lifestyle choices. Jadakiss and Styles P recently opened three juice bars in urban communities in Yonkers, New York. Juices For Life provides healthy drink options and snacks. In 2013, 50 Cent released the book, Formula 50, to provide tips on nutrition and exercise.
While Freeway continues his treatment and recovery, it’s important for members of the hip-hop generation to make it a habit to exercise and eat healthier, cut back on alcohol and drug consumption, and visit the doctor for routine checkups.
