Health Emphasis of the Month
Each month, we recognize a disease, illness, or health concern that follows the National Health Observance Calendar. The goal is to raise awareness and provide resources so you can have better knowledge of health risks and management. Check back each month to learn something new!
April 2024
Alcohol Awareness Month
Alcohol Awareness Month is observed each April to raise awareness surrounding alcohol use or misuse. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) provides resources on the effects of alcohol, treatment, and more.
March 2024
National Nutrition Month
An annual campaign designed to educate on nutrition and activity, and encourage all people to make healthy eating choices.
Check out Eat Right’s 20 Health Tips here.
February 2024
American Heart Month
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Each February, American Heart Month raises awareness and encourages all people to take control of their health to keep their hearts healthy.
Learn more about risk factors like high blood pressure and high cholesterol and how to help prevent heart disease.
January 2024
Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
Each year over ten thousand women in the US are diagnosed with Cervical Cancer. In January, we are helping to spread awareness about the causes and risks of cervical cancer, and what you can do to help prevent it!
Check out the CDC’s recommendations for reducing your risk here.
December 2023
National Influenza Vaccination Week
This December 4-8 is NIVW is an annual observance to remind everyone 6 months and older that there’s still time to get vaccinated against flu. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications. The flu vaccine has been shown to reduce the risk of illness, flu related hospitalization, and death.
November 2023
National Diabetes Month
More than 1 in 3 people in the United States have pre diabetes, and 80% of those people have no idea they have it. Take this awareness opportunity to learn more about diabetes and taking control of your health to prevent related health problems.
October 2023
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Did you know that 1 in 8 women in the US will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime? This annual campaign aims to educate and promote early detection, which is crucial for the most effective treatment. The National Breast Cancer Foundation has many great resources you can use to help educate yourself this October.
September 2023
Healthy Aging Month
Did you know that over 50% of the US population is over 45? Healthy Aging encourages older adults to adopt a healthier lifestyle for a longer life by eating better, exercising, and taking control of your health.
August 2023
National Immunization Awareness Month
Each August NIAM aims to share the importance of vaccinations for people of all ages. The CDC shares resources to help educate about what vaccines you need and why.
See what vaccines you need here!
July 2023
Extreme Heat Awareness Month
July is Extreme Heat Awareness Month. Heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this, more than 600 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Know the risks and stay cool and hydrated!
June 2023
Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month
Each June many organizations come together with the goal of raising awareness about dementias and Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia.
May 2023
High Blood Pressure Education Month
High blood pressure—or hypertension—is a major risk factor for heart disease. Half of Americans have high blood pressure, and many don’t know that they do. This May the NIH is educating and spreading awareness for measuring, monitoring and managing high blood pressure.
April 2023
Alcohol Awareness Month
Alcohol Awareness Month is observed each April to raise awareness surrounding alcohol abuse or misuse. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) provides resources on the effects of alcohol, treatment, and more.
March 2023
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance (CCA) recognizes National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month each March to help spread the word about colorectal cancer, knowing your risk and how to prevent it. Those over 45 should be screened regularly to catch any cancer early, when it most treatable.
February 2023
American Heart Month
American Heart Month is observed annually to promote the importance of heart health and things you can do to lower you risk of Heart Disease. High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. About half of people in the United States (47%) have at least one of these three risk factors.
January 2023
Glaucoma Awareness Month
Glaucoma Awareness Month is an annual campaign made to educate people about the effects, treatment, and getting tested for glaucoma as 50% of those affected have zero early symptoms. You may be especially at higher risk if you’re over 60 and/or have a family history of glaucoma.
December 2022
National Influenza Vaccination Week
This December 5-9 is NIVW is an annual observance to remind everyone 6 months and older that there’s still time to get vaccinated against flu. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications, including young children.
November 2022
American Diabetes Month
American Diabetes Month is an annual campaign sponsored by the American Diabetes Association to educate, provide resources, and raise awareness about the diabetes epidemic in America.
October 2022
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer. The National Breast Cancer Foundation aims to educate women and spread awareness - early detection saves lives.
September 2022
Healthy Aging Month
The annual observance month focuses national attention on the positive aspects of growing older, particularly among adults ages 45-plus. The mission is to encourage everyone to take personal responsibility for their health.
August 2022
National Immunization Awareness Month
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sponsors National Immunization Awareness Month in August to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages.
July 2022
Extreme Heat Awareness Month
July is Extreme Heat Awareness Month. Heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable. Despite this fact, more than 600 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year.
June 2022
Men’s Health Month
June is Men’s Health Month. This month is all about raising awareness about health issues affecting men and boys.
May 2022
Hypertension Awareness Month
High blood pressure is often called the silent killer. You might not have symptoms, but it’s a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Raising awareness and educating about monitoring at home can help keep blood pressure under control.
April 2022
Alcohol Awareness Month
Every April, this campaign takes place in order to raise awareness about causes, resources, and dangers surrounding one of the most prominent health issues in the nation, alcoholism.
March 2022
National Nutrition Month
During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.
February 2022
American Heart Month
High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. About half of people in the United States (47%) have at least one of these three risk factors.
January 2022
Cervical Cancer Awareness
You can lower your risk for cervical cancer by getting screened regularly, starting at age 21. There are two tests to help prevent or find it early - the Pap test or HPV test.