While spreading awareness about health issues and minding our own wellness should be a year-round effort, certain health-related awareness campaigns are anticipated each year to put more emphasis and provide better education on different concerns. And the month of February is a great time to bring extra attention and resources to the causes that need it. These advocacies, namely, Heart Health, Children’s Dental Health, and Cancer Prevention are three important causes that we should support as a community.
Heart Health
For every 34 seconds, one person dies from heart disease or cardio-vascular related illnesses in the US (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). With that in mind, February marks the month to promote heart health and spread awareness on its importance. This includes educating people on how to recognize the symptoms and take preventive measures.
Take this heart health trivia to test your knowledge!
Known as American Heart Month across the country, February shines a light on the issues surrounding cardiovascular conditions, from hypertension, stroke, and coronary heart disease. During this time of the year, Non Profits (NGOs) and health care centers often hold health seminars and educational events focusing on heart-related issues, as well as provide free screenings.
Children’s Dental Health
February is also the National Children’s Dental Health Month, a time when parents and caregivers are encouraged to educate their children on the importance of oral health. According to statistics, around 1 in every 5 children aged 5 to 11 years old has at least one untreated decayed tooth. The figures are even more alarming for those in low-income families, where kids between 5 to 19 years old are two times more likely to have untreated cavities than those from higher-income backgrounds (Center for Disease Control and Prevention).
This is why the ones responsible for educating and supervising the little ones are urged to be extra diligent in monitoring their children’s dental health. Preventive care, regular check-ups, and proper oral hygiene habits should be taught to them in order to reduce the incidence of cavities and other dental-related problems which can lead to bigger health issues in the future.
Cancer Prevention
While different types of cancer have their own awareness campaigns, February is especially designated to raise awareness about cancer prevention in general. While cancer is among the leading causes of death in the US, 50% of related deaths are actually preventable. Different risk factors such as smoking, poor diet, high alcohol intake, and lack of physical activity are just some of the controllable factors that may increase one’s chances of developing the condition.
This is why it’s important to promote preventive measures such as healthy lifestyle habits and early screenings. It’s also critical to support cancer patients and their families, especially those who are currently undergoing treatment. This can be done through volunteer work, financial contributions, and emotional support.
Why Get Involved?
Now, why exactly should you care about these causes when the big institutions are already doing their part? Here’s why:
It Doesn’t Cost Much To Make a Difference
Getting involved in these advocacies does not really require much of your precious time and resources. A simple act of concern such as educating yourself about these health issues and sharing information on your social media feeds will go a long way. These small steps can help increase awareness and make ripple effects that will ultimately result in positive change.
Your Community’s Health is Your Family’s Health
Remember that the health of your community is also tied to the well-being of your family. A healthy and strong community can help protect and support its members, especially when things get rough.
Your Personal Health Will Benefit, Too
Being informed and taking preventive measures towards these issues will also help you in the long run. The wealth of knowledge you gain from these advocacies can help protect and promote your own health and well-being as preventive measures become part of your daily habits.
What Can You Do?
Ready to do your part? Here are some of the things that you can do:
Be Informed
Different health organizations are providing a wide range of information which you can use to navigate these advocacies. From the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to the American Heart Association, these resources can help you stay informed and knowledgeable. Hudson Physicians’ Optimal Health podcast and blog also have a lot of health-related info that you can use.
Know Your Local Community’s Initiatives
Different local communities have their own health initiatives that you can join. Investigate local campaigns and support groups in your neighborhood to see how you can help out. These can be in the form of virtual meetings and face-to-face events which may even help you gain new contacts and friends.
Care, Share, Donate
Lastly, don’t forget to show that you care—share your thoughts and experiences with people whether online or in person, donate what you can, and help create a healthier community. After all, these advocacies need all the support that they can get.
Be an Advocate in Your Own Home and Community
With your small acts of love, you can make a difference in your own home and community. Now is the time to be an advocate for high-quality healthcare and healthy living for everyone. So get involved and be part of making a better future for the generations to come.
For more info on these health-related issues and advocacies, check out our education resources and services.
