April 2008

April is National Organ Donor Month

The number of people requiring a life-saving transplant continues to rise faster than the number of available donors. Approximately 300 new transplant candidates are added to the waiting list each month.

• Waiting list candidates: 98,718 as of 4-7-2008
• Transplants January-January 2008: 2,196 as of 4-4-2008
• Donors January-January 2008: 1,130 as of 4-4-2008

All Individuals can indicate their intent to donate (persons younger than 18 years of age must have a parent's or guardian's consent). You can also help lower the number of people needing transplants by taking care of yourself, so you will not need one in the future. Please click here fore more information and for information on how you can become a donor.

August 2007

August is National Immunization Awareness Month

All infants need immunizations at 2,4,6,12,15 and 18 months.  For more information, including immunization schedules, visit the National Immunization Program’s web site.  Adults also should be reminded to make sure that their immunizations are also current, including Tetanus booster every ten years.  Flu vaccines are recommended for all adults and children with compromised immune systems.  Check with your doctor or medical provider to ensure that your entire family is current on all immunizations.

juLY 2007

As summer activities began, we are all reminded to focus on child safety.  Children under the age of 5 are at greater risk from unintentional injury-related death and disability than are older children; the 0-5 age group accounts for forty percent of all injury-related deaths month children ages 14 and under.  As children increase their activities in the summer months, they should be reminded to wear helmets and other safety equipment. 

june 2007

June includes National Men's Health Week with an emphasis on awareness, prevention, education and family.  Men are reminded to schedule annual physicals including prostate exams.  The effect of healthy nutrition is emphasized this month as June 5 is National Hunger Awareness day with the theme this year, "The Face of Hunger Will Surprise You".  For more information America's Second Harvest at www.secondharvest.org  

May 2007

May includes National Women's Health Week.  Women are encouraged to take simple steps for a longer, healthier and happier life.  The theme of this year for National Women's Health Week is "It's Your Time:  Pamper Your Mind, Body and Spirit".  May is also Home Safety Month.  We are all encouraged to take a hands on approach to prevent injuries in our homes and to develop a plan of emergency preparedness in case of fires and other natural disasters.