National Health Observances: Let's get on board and support them

Sept. 29, 2010

Did you know that September is Fruit and Veggies-More Matters Month and Baby Safety Month, or that Sept. 29 is National Women's Health & Fitness Day? If you're like many of us, probably not.

While some of the authors of national health observances are quite successful at marketing their cause (think National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, World Aids Day and even the Great American Smokeout each November) others such as these awareness efforts go largely unnoticed by the general populous.

There are reasons why community groups, health professionals, teachers and residents should support organized local and national health observances: They educate the public about health risks,  help organize successful health promotion events and campaigns, and get news and information out about vital health topics and resources in the community. On a personal level, use them as a launching pad to implement healthy changes into your own life.

So lets start with National Women's Day of Health & Fitness. The day is sponsored as a public/private good health partnership by the Health Information Resource Center as a way to promote the importance of health awareness and regular physical activity for women of all ages. to According to sponsors, over 100,000 women will participate in events throughout the U.S. In Mason Square, we can host events in small groups, among girlfriends, co-workers or family members. Arrange to meet for a walk around the Springfield College or Blunt Park tracks, or workout at a local gym. The bottom line - establish a fitness regimen and continue to use that regimen in your daily lifestyle.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention & Produce for Better Health Foundation is the sponsor for Fruit and Veggies-More Matters Month. The month promotes health benefits of eating fruit and vegetables.

Click to see the food Pyramid

Fruit and vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet that can help protect you from:

• Heart disease
• Bone loss
• Type 2 diabetes 
• High blood pressure
• Some cancers, such as colorectal cancer

Simple steps you can take to increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables is:

1. Seek out healthy recipes with fruits and/or vegetables and implement into your daily diet.

2. Share your research on the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables with family and friends

3. Teach your children that fruits and vegetables are not just good for you, but also GOOD!

Baby Safety Awareness Month is a campaign launched by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, an agency that works with the Consumer Protection Agency to establish guidelines for juvenile products, to help educators and caregivers understand the importance of using safe products for babies. The month has been observed since 1991.

This year, the JMPA is focusing on safe sleeping environments. According to the JMPA, every year hundreds of deaths occur when children are placed in a sleep environment not specifically designed for infants, such as in a toddler or adult bed, couch or unprotected space. Children must be placed in properly assembled, safe and secure cribs, cradles, bassinets or the like. For tips on creating safe environments for babies click here.

As a result of national campaigns like these, Americans are raising their awareness about health risks and safety issues and implementing strategies for change. Let's jump on the bandwagon and do the same right here in Mason Square.