National Health Observances 2013-2014
National Health Observances (NHOs) are special months dedicated to raising awareness about
important health topics. Follow us for information, suggestions and tips to see how you can become involved in observance of these selected dates.
OCTOBER
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a chance to raise awareness about the importance of screening and the early detection of breast cancer.
About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point during her life. After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common kind of cancer in women.
The good news? Many women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. A mammogram – the screening test for breast cancer – can help find breast cancer early.
Make a difference! Spread the word about mammograms and encourage communities, organizations, families, and individuals to get involved.
How can National Breast Cancer Awareness Month make a difference?We can use this opportunity to spread the word about important steps women can take to stay healthy.
Here are just a few ideas:
- Ask doctors and nurses to speak to women about the importance of getting screened for breast cancer.
- Encourage women age 40 and older to talk with their doctors about when to start getting mammograms.
- Talk with women ages 50 to 74 in your community about getting mammograms every 2 years.
*** View Links*** for "Breast Self Exam"
Get Involved Take action to increase awareness about breast cancer and breast cancer screenings.
- Display posters about breast cancer screening in your organization’s break room.
- Ask health professionals from your local hospital or clinic to share information about mammograms and early detection with your employees or members.
- Post materials about breast cancer screening at a local health fair.
- Partner with local women’s organizations, community groups, and senior centers to reach women age 40 and older with important information on breast cancer screening.
- Host a breast cancer walk with your organization’s members.
NOVEMBER
National Diabetes Month Nov. 1-30
Diabetes Education Week November 3-9
National Prematurity Awareness Month Nov. 1-30
Great American Smokout Nov. 21
Resources and Tool Kit
