Category: Health & Awareness

  • WORLD OBESITY DAY – March 4

    WORLD OBESITY DAY

    Every year on March 4th, World Obesity Day encourages people across the globe to respond to the obesity crisis. It’s also a day to increase obesity awareness, encourage advocacy, improve policies, and share experiences.

    According to the Worldwide Health Organization (WHO), obesity affected over 650 million adults in 2016. Today, that number is closer to 800 million. This number has tripled since 1975. Adults that have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more are considered obese. Poor health is one of the many consequences of obesity. Here are some health issues associated with obesity:

    • Premature death
    • High blood pressure
    • Type 2 diabetes
    • Coronary heart disease
    • Sleep apnea
    • Chronic pain
    • Certain kinds of cancers

    Obesity also takes a toll on one’s mental health as well. It’s not uncommon for those who are obese to suffer with anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders.

    Some people mistakenly think that overeating is the sole cause of obesity. This may be true in some cases, but not all. There are other causes of obesity. Some of the root causes of obesity include genetics, lack of sleep, poor mental health, certain medications, and a lack of access to proper healthcare. Some people also lack an education on basic nutrition.

    Those who struggle with obesity often experience weight bias. This means that people have a negative attitude about them because of their weight. When this occurs, those who are obese can be discriminated against in the workplace or education setting.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldObesityDay

    • World Obesity Federation encourages people living with obesity to share their stories.
    • People can also show their support for the youth-led Act4Food Act4Change campaign.
    • Many health care organizations host educational seminars about the health issues associated with obesity.
    • Learn more about how obesity plays a role in poorer mental health and reduced quality of life.
    • Find ways to support people in your life that are struggling with obesity.
    • Make it a mission to understand the roots of obesity and do your part to stop the stigma.
    • Educate yourself about the obesity crisis by reading, A Big Fat Crisis by Deborah A. Cohen, MD, or Planet Obesity: How We’re Eating Ourselves and the Planet to Death by Garry Egger and Boyd Swinburn.
    • Spread awareness for this day on social media with #WorldObesityDay.

    WORLD OBESITY DAY HISTORY

    Over the past couple of decades, various obesity awareness days have been held throughout the world. One of the first was European Obesity Day, established in 2010. To increase further awareness, the World Obesity Federation launched World Obesity Day in 2015. Since then, several organizations across the globe have come together on this day to respond to the obesity crisis.

     

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  • WORLD TENNIS DAY – First Monday in March

    WORLD TENNIS DAY

    Every year on the first Monday in March, World Tennis Day seeks to increase tennis participation around the world. It’s also a day to learn more about influential tennis players throughout history.

    The origins of tennis go all the way back to the 12th century. During this time, European monks had developed a handball game called “paume.” Later, instead of hitting the ball with the hand, leather gloves were used. These gloves eventually evolved into racquets.

    Between the 16th and 18th centuries, the game became popular with kings and noblemen. In the 1530s, King Henry VIII built a tennis court at Hampton Court Palace. Over 300 years later, the United States held its first lawn tennis tournament. Since then, the game has steadily increased in popularity. Today, tennis ranks as the fourth most popular sport in the world.

    Some of the world’s most influential tennis players include:

    • Billie Jean King – She is considered the pioneer and godmother of women’s tennis.
    • Arthur Ashe – He was the first black tennis player selected to the U.S. Davis Cup team.
    • Chris Evert – She competed in the semi-finals of the U.S. Open at just 16 years of age.
    • John McEnroe – He is one of the most high-profile tennis players in the world.
    • Venus and Serena Williams – These sisters have won 57 Grand Slam trophies and 8 Olympic Gold medals.

    It’s estimated there are 87 million tennis players in the world. This number includes just over 3,800 professional tennis players.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldTennisDay

    • Tennis organizations around the world encourage people to participate in this sport. They especially encourage young people to give tennis a try.
    • Tennis courts and clubs open their doors to anyone who wants to play tennis.
    • Sign up for tennis lessons at your local tennis club or fitness center.
    • Look for famous tennis matches online.
    • Learn more about the history of tennis and also the rules of the sport.
    • Watch a tennis documentary, such as “Unmatched,” “Venus and Serena,” “Strokes of Genius,” or “McEnroe/Borg: Fire & Ice.”
    • Share this day on social media with #WorldTennisDay.

    WORLD TENNIS DAY HISTORY

    The International Tennis Federation (ITL) organized the first World Tennis Day on March 4th, 2013. About 60 countries participated in the event. The event coincided with a one-night tennis exhibition that took place in Madison Square Garden from 2008 through 2017. The event kicked off the tennis season in North America. During this same timeframe, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) held tennis clinics across the country. Even though the one-night tennis exhibition no longer takes place, World Tennis Day is still celebrated in 90 countries around the world.

    DATES:
    7 March 2022
    6 March 2023
    4 March 2024
    3 March 2025
    2 March 2026
    1 March 2027
    6 March 2028
    5 March 2029
    4 March 2030
    3 March 2031
    1 March 2032

     

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  • DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH – March

    DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH

    Each year in March, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month focuses increased awareness on the needs of those with developmental disabilities. The observance also highlights their potential in schools, work, and home.

    A developmental disability is a condition usually diagnosed during a child’s development and before adulthood. Developmental disabilities impair several areas of development such as physical, learning, language, or behavior.

    A variety of conditions fall into the category of developmental disabilities. However, early diagnosis is one of the keys to limiting the impact of a disability on a child’s long-term development. Developmental milestones such as language, response to sounds, walking, and following simple instructions are just a few milestones in a child’s development. Families and physicians monitor these milestones to identify possible delays.

    Screenings also help to identify developmental disabilities. Before and after birth, a mother’s OB-GYN and the pediatrician screen and monitor a child’s progress.

    The month also highlights programs and tools that assist those with developmental disabilities to reach their fullest potential. Organizations specializing in the needs of those with developmental disabilities are constantly improving access to resources and increasing the general public’s awareness.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #DevelopmentalDisabilitiesAwarenessMonth

    • Learn about the different types of disabilities.
    • Read first-hand stories by people with developmental disabilities. We suggest:
      • Disability Visibility: First-Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century by Alice Wong
      • Look Me In the Eye: My Life with Asperger’s by John Elder Robinson
      • How Can I Talk If My Lips Don’t Move: Inside My Autistic Mind by Tito Rajarshi Mukhopadhyay
      • The Year My Son and I Were Born: A Story of Down Syndrome, Motherhood, and Self-Discovery by Kathryn Lynard Soper
    • Share your stories.
    • Seek support from local organizations.
    • Help raise awareness by sharing this day on social media.
    • Use #DevelopmentalDisabilitiesAwarenessMonth on social media.

    NATIONAL DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY

    In 1987, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

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  • AUTISM SUNDAY – Second Sunday in February

    AUTISM SUNDAY

    Every year on the second Sunday of February, the International Day of Prayer for Autism and Asperger Syndrome raises awareness for these developmental disorders. The day is also known as Autism Sunday.

    According to WHO, about one in 270 people in the world has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This is a group of developmental disabilities that causes challenges in many areas of one’s life. Some of the profoundly affected areas include social, communication, and behavior. Children with ASD are usually nonverbal or they have restricted or repetitive behaviors.

    At one time, Asperger syndrome was a separate diagnosis. Today, this condition is under the umbrella of ASD. Unlike autism, however, there is no delay in language or cognitive development with Asperger syndrome. Both ASD and Asperger’s often present with a variety of sensory issues. When a person is hypersensitive to certain stimuli, it makes it difficult to be in certain environments. Sadly, one of those environments is church.

    Because of this, many churches have special services that cater to those with ASD. These services include fewer people, dimmed lighting, softer music, and a special calming area.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #AutismSunday

    On this day churches around the world hold special services to pray for those diagnosed and affected by autism and Asperger syndrome. To participate, pray for those you know who have been diagnosed with autism or Asperger syndrome. If your church doesn’t already take part in this special day, encourage church leaders to do so. You can also talk to them about having a sensory-sensitive service. If you don’t know much about ASDs, it’s a great day to start learning about them.

    Spread awareness for this day on social media with #AutismSunday.

    AUTISM SUNDAY HISTORY

    In 2000, British citizens Ivan Corea and his wife Charika established the Autism Awareness Campaign in the UK. Their teenage son, Charin, had been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Their goal was to raise awareness as well as campaign for independent research. The year 2002 became Autism Awareness Year in the UK. On February 9, 2002, the Corea family launched Autism Sunday. On this day St. Paul’s Cathedral in London held its first service for autism. Today, church leaders around the world, of every denomination, take part in Autism Sunday.

    DATES
    12 February 2023
    11 February 2024
    9 February 2025
    8 February 2026
    14 February 2027
    13 February 2028
    11 February 2029
    10 February 2030

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  • EUROPEAN DAY FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME – February 22

    EUROPEAN DAY FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME

    Every year on February 22nd, the European Day for Victims of Crime comes against those who divide society through hate and violence. It’s also a day to spread awareness for the fundamental rights of crime victims.

    Every year throughout Europe, about 75 million people become victims of crime. It’s not uncommon for these victims to suffer physical and mental trauma. For this reason, it’s important that their right to report the crime or access justice is not denied. Equally important is their right to seek protection and not fear retaliation. When these rights are kept in place, more victims come forward.

    Those with disabilities are one group of people that is especially vulnerable to becoming a victim of crime. This is especially true of those who lack the physical ability to fight back. Some people with disabilities have communications barriers, which makes it hard for them to report a crime. In Europe, women with disabilities are up to 5 times more likely to become a victim of crime. Violent crimes are committed against them, as well as hate crimes and harassment.

    Victims of crime have a wide range of needs. Some of these needs include:

    • Recognition as a victim.
    • Protection during criminal investigations and court proceedings.
    • Long-term physical and psychological assistance.
    • Knowledge and understanding of their rights.
    • Monetary compensation paid by the state, offender, or other form of restorative justice.

    When the needs of crime victims are met, it increases their ability to recover and for justice to be fully served.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #EuropeanDayForVictimsOfCrime

    On this day, the European Union (EU) recognizes the plight of crime victims and gives voice to their needs. Many people hold memorial services to remember family members and friends who have died as a result of being a crime victim. It’s also a day for those in government to release reports on the needs and experiences of victims of crime. To participate, think about ways you can help victims of crime in your community. You can also spread awareness for this day on social media with #EuropeanDayForVictimsOfCrime.

    EUROPEAN DAY FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME HISTORY

    In 2012, the EU adopted a directive on minimum standards for victims of crime. To aid in this endeavor, they created the European Day for Victims of Crime. The first event was held on February 22, 2014. In 2015, every Member State of the EU made a clear commitment to establishing victim support services.

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  • ALOPECIA AREATA AWARENESS MONTH – September

    ALOPECIA AREATA AWARENESS MONTH

    Every September, Alopecia Areata Awareness Month focuses on an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss.

    The severity of alopecia areata ranges from small patches of hair loss to near-complete hair loss. More than 6.8 million people in the United States have or are diagnosed with Alopecia according to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation. It impacts people of all ages and both men and women. While more research is needed to determine the cause of alopecia, those who have it face self-awareness and image concerns.

    There is also no cure for alopecia. However, research reveals that even when alopecia is in its active state, the hair follicles are still alive. Research also suggests that a combination of internal and external factors contribute to alopecia including genetics and stress.

    Treatment options are available. And in the meantime, many people with alopecia embrace their condition in creative and stylistic ways. They may choose to wear wigs or remove their remaining hair altogether.

    The month raises awareness of the condition and supports additional research into alopecia.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #AlopeciaAreataAwarenessMonth

    • Support research into the causes and treatment of alopecia.
    • Share your alopecia story.
    • Support a friend with alopecia.
    • Host a fundraiser or alopecia walk.
    • Donate to a charity that supports people with alopecia.
    • Wear blue to show your support.
    • Speak with your hairdresser for advice on creative styling.
    • Donate your hair in support of wigs and hairpieces for those with alopecia.
    • Use #AlopeciaAwarenessDay to share your story or share your support on social media.

    ALOPECIA AREATA AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY

    In 1986, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed National Alopecia Awareness Week. Since then, the observance has expanded into an entire month and is sponsored by the National Alopecia Areata Foundation.

     

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  • ESOPHAGEAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH – April

    ESOPHAGEAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

    Across the United States, esophageal cancer is a growing concern. That’s why April is designated Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month.

    The esophagus is the tube that runs from the throat to the stomach. It consists of muscle and tissues that allow swallowing of food and liquids.

    According to the American Cancer Society, esophageal cancer is the seventh leading cancer killer among men. And while deaths due to esophageal cancer are down, the numbers of people being diagnosed are increasing. Survival rates are increasing, too, though they are still comparatively low. Men are more likely than women to be diagnosed with esophageal cancer,

    As with many cancers, early detection improves survival rates. Some of the symptoms of esophageal cancer include:

    • Unexplained weight loss
    • Difficulty swallowing
    • Pressure, burning or pain in the chest
    • Increased heartburn or indigestion
    • Cough
    • Hoarse voice

    There are several risk factors to keep in mind, too.

    • Gastroesophageal reflux
    • Obesity
    • Alcohol use
    • Bile reflux
    • Barrett’s esophagus
    • Achalasia
    • Tobacco use
    • Low fiber diet
    • Sedentary lifestyle

    Several of the risk factors are in our control, though others are not. Speak with your doctor about changing those factors you can control and how to address the ones you can’t. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with your doctor today.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #EsophagealCancerAwarenessMonth

    • Learn more about esophageal cancers.
    • Host a fundraiser in support of research and treatments.
    • Know your risk factors and speak with your doctor.
    • Make lifestyle changes to reduce your risk.
    • Support someone living with esophageal cancer.
    • Wear a periwinkle ribbon to help raise awareness.
    • Use #EsophagealCancerAwarenessMonth on social media.

    ESOPHAGEAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

    Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month was founded to bring increased understanding about the risks and treatments available for this deadly cancer. The organization’s founder, Mindy Mintz Mordecai, lost her husband John to esophageal cancer in 2008.

     

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  • NATIONAL HYALURONIC ACID DAY – January 21

    NATIONAL HYALURONIC ACID DAY

    Everyone’s skin needs a little hydration, especially during the cold, dry winter months. On January 21st, National Hyaluronic Acid Day raises awareness of the important hydrating benefits of the skincare ingredient hyaluronic acid. The day also provides education on the proper usage of hyaluronic acid products.

    #NationalHyaluronicAcidDay

    #nationalHAday

     

    Hyaluronic Acid (H.A.) is the second most searched beauty ingredient of 2021. It is also a popular ingredient recommendation by dermatologists. However, most have not realized its full potential as a hero ingredient that can be integrated into everyone’s routine.

    Hyaluronic acid offers a variety of benefits including deep hydration, plumping, and reduction of fine lines and is suitable for sensitive skin.

    On January 21st, celebrate Hyaluronic Acid’s immense dermatological potential as a universally loved ingredient that hydrates every skin type.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL HYALURONIC ACID DAY

    Protect your skin during the skin-drying winter months and all year long. Discover the benefits of Hyaluronic Acid, what it can do to protect and improve your skin and how to incorporate it into your routine. Share how, and why, you use hyaluronic acid in your skin routine!

    Discover more with #nationalHAday and #nationalhyaluronicacidday on social media, and follow La Roche-Posay on Facebook to join us in celebrating!

    NATIONAL HYALURONIC ACID DAY HISTORY

    La-Roche Posay -RETAIL-LOGO

    La Roche-Posay, the dermatologist-recommended skincare brand, founded National Hyaluronic Acid Day in 2022 to celebrate the immense dermatological potential of Hyaluronic Acid. The day brings greater awareness of this universally loved skincare ingredient.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed National Hyaluronic Acid Day to be observed annually on January 21st.

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  • NATIONAL RED SOCK DAY – Third Saturday in February

    NATIONAL RED SOCK DAY

    Wear your red socks on National Red Sock Day to help save a life and limb! Did you know leg health can indicate risk for heart attack, stroke, and amputation? One in five adults over the age of 60 have a condition called Peripheral Artery Disease (P.A.D.), and many don’t even know they have it. National Red Sock Day on the Third Saturday in February raises awareness about P.A.D., its risk factors, and what you can do.

    #NationalRedSockDay

    P.A.D. is caused by plaque build-up in the peripheral arteries, mainly the arteries in the legs. It is the most debilitating disease many people have never heard of, and yet, it is responsible for nearly 200,000 amputations annually. More than half of those amputations are preventable with early diagnosis and treatment.

    P.A.D. Symptoms

    • Leg pain
    • Leg cramps
    • Neuropathy
    • Tingling
    • Numbness
    • Non-healing foot ulcers

    Additionally, 3 in 5 heart attack sufferers have P.A.D. This is why National Red Sock Day takes place in February, which is also American Heart Month.

    P.A.D. Risk Factors

    • Diabetes
    • Cardiovascular disease
    • High blood pressure
    • High Cholesterol
    • Smoking
    • Obesity
    • Hereditary

    Diabetics are one of the highest risk groups with cases rising fast. More than half of American adults have Pre/Diabetes, and the most prevalent complication is vascular. In fact, 1 in 3 diabetics over 50 have P.A.D. However, the most horrifying aspect of this disease is that most people don’t know they have it until it reaches its advanced stages. P.A.D. can lead to heart attack, stroke, and amputation. Diagnosis and appropriate treatment in early stages can help keep life and a limb healthy longer.  Diagnosis involves checking leg pulses in patients over age 50.

    National Red Sock Day aims to raise awareness and encourage a candid conversation between patients and their physicians to test sooner for P.A.D.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL RED SOCK DAY

    Wear your red socks on National Red Sock Day to help raise awareness about P.A.D. The red sock design symbolizes good circulation, keeping life and limb healthy. The blue toe and heel indicate how poor circulation in the feet can indicate risk for heart attack, stroke, and amputation. Help The Way To My Heart expand critical life and limb saving P.A.D. education, advocacy, and support by purchasing official P.A.D. Awareness Socks at www.TheWayToMyHeart.org/Red-Sock-Day

    Have a conversation with your doctor about P.A.D. Make sure to report risk factors, including a history of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and smoking. If you need help explaining your symptoms, The Way to My Heart offers various resources to guide you.

    Another way to participate is by donating to The Way to My Heart’s campaign. You can also follow The Way to My Heart on Facebook.

    Also, please share the word on social media using #NationalRedSockDay to help raise awareness.

    NATIONAL RED SOCK DAY HISTORY

    The Way To My Heart founded National Red Sock Day in 2022 to raise awareness about P.A.D. and how early diagnosis can make a difference. Its mission is to support P.A.D. patients, caregivers, and providers through high-touch advocacy, education, and interaction. The organization offers numerous programs to support patients, from facilitating communication between patients and medical professionals to improving access to critical life and limb-saving resources. Its efforts are dramatically reducing healthcare costs by eliminating unnecessary amputation and improving patient outcomes.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed National Red Sock Day to be observed annually on the third Saturday in February.

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  • GLOBAL BELLY LAUGH DAY – January 24

    GLOBAL BELLY LAUGH DAY

    On January 24th, Global Belly Laugh Day celebrates the wonderful gift of laughter. It’s also a day to experience the positive effects of smiling and laughing.

    Have you ever laughed loudly without restraint? If so, you had what’s called a belly laugh. This type of laugh comes from deep within. The term “belly laugh” was coined in the 1920s. It refers to a moving belly while laughing loudly.

    • Other ways to describe a belly laugh include:
    • A loud laugh that can’t be controlled.
    • A sudden burst of laughter.
    • A laugh that is loud and hearty.
    • A heavy laugh.

    People often find that a good belly laugh makes them feel good. Why is this? One reason is that laughter stimulates the organs. A belly laugh doesn’t just stimulate the stomach, though. This kind of laughter also stimulates the heart and lungs.

    Laughter

    Laughter even increases endorphins, which are the body’s “feel-good hormones.” A good belly laugh also increases circulation and relaxes the muscles. So the next time you’re feeling blue, it really will help to watch a funny movie or listen to a comedian.

    Laughing with others is equally beneficial as it can improve relationships. If you are with a group of people, you will find that laughter is contagious. When one laughs, others can’t help but join in and laugh, too.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #GlobalBellyLaughDay

    The symbol for this day is a smiling sun with 7 rays and dimples with the numbers 1 and 24. This represents the idea that laughter and sunshine can transform our moments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Because of this symbol, people on all seven continents are encouraged to laugh at 1:24 p.m. local time on January 24th. To participate:

    • Watch a funny movie or video.
    • Go to a comedy club or listen to a comedian.
    • Get together with others and take turns telling funny jokes.
    • Have a competition to see who has the best belly laugh.

    Share this funny day on social media with #GlobalBellyLaughDay.

    “As soap is to the body, so laughter is for the soul.” Jewish Proverb

    GLOBAL BELLY LAUGH DAY HISTORY

    Elaine Helle created Global Belly Laugh Day in 2005. Elaine is a certified laughter yoga teacher. She believes that the gift of laughter is something worth celebrating.

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