November is a month of many wellness awareness events. This is especially true of men’s health, ovarian cancer awareness and childhood obesity. As with other wellness months, there is also National Military Fitness and Wellness Month, Lung Cancer Awareness Month and Spina Bifida Awareness Month.
National Men’s Health Awareness Month
Men’s Health Awareness Month (MHA) is a month of action that promotes healthy living and encourages men to take charge of their own health. It encourages men to seek medical advice when necessary, as well as make the right lifestyle decisions.
The month also focuses on raising awareness about mental health issues. According to the World Health Organization, men are at least three times more likely than women to die from suicide.
In addition to the risks associated with age and ethnicity, men should be aware of the health risks associated with their lifestyle. Many men deal with depression and anxiety without seeking help. Getting diagnosed early increases the chance of survival.
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Lung Cancer Awareness Month is held every November in the United States. In order to spread awareness, various organisations organise activities and campaigns during this time.
The month’s main goal is to raise awareness and encourage early screening of people at risk for lung cancer. It also provides information on the symptoms, signs, and treatment options for this deadly disease.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in the United States. This is followed by colon cancer and breast cancer.
While there are many risk factors for lung cancer, the most important is smoking. A history of smoking is linked to about 86% of all cases of the disease.
National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is an educational event that promotes the healthy growth of children. Sponsored by the CDC’s Division of Nutrition, the month aims to increase awareness about the risks of obesity.
The CDC estimates that one in six children in the United States is obese. This is a significant number because overweight kids are at risk for chronic health conditions and increased mortality. It also puts them at a higher risk for diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea.
One of the best ways to prevent your child from becoming obese is to ensure they have a nutritious diet and enough physical activity. The CDC recommends that children of all ages have at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.
National Military Fitness and Wellness Month
During the month of November, the American legion goes all out to celebrate the contributions of military personnel to the armed forces. This year, the team at Team85 Fitness and Wellness Center is helping to make this an epic affair with an array of health and wellness related activities. Whether you’re looking to eat well or get fit, there is a solution for you. A visit to their fitness and wellness center is sure to put you on the path to success.
The American Legion isn’t the only organization to throw its hat in the ring. One of the largest health and wellness providers in the country, Planet Fitness Franchise Group is also taking the lead. In celebration of Veterans Health Month, they are offering a free one-month membership to qualified veterans.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Ovarian cancer is a form of gynecologic cancer. It occurs when cancerous cells develop in the outer layer of the ovaries. Symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, difficulty eating, and changes in bowel habits.
The survival rate for ovarian cancer has improved over the past decade. However, women with the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations have an increased risk of developing the disease. Thankfully, there are genetic tests to determine if you are at risk.
In order to fight ovarian cancer, it is important to be educated. This includes learning about the symptoms and how to prevent the disease. There are also professional conferences to learn more about the latest research.
Spina Bifida Association
Every October, the Spina Bifida Association celebrates National Spina Bifida Awareness Month. This month is a great opportunity to spread awareness of this often misunderstood condition, as well as the latest research and treatment options.
The most common types of spina bifida include Occulta, a form with only one or two bones malformed in the spinal column, and Meningocele, a condition where a sac of fluid pokes through the spine. Both are milder versions of the condition, but both can cause complications.
There are also more severe forms of spina bifida that require physical therapy and adaptive equipment. Exercise can be beneficial to a patient’s quality of life, as it can increase muscle strength, promote transfers, and even help with ambulation.