Category: Medical

  • NATIONAL INTERNAL MEDICINE DAY| October 28

    NATIONAL INTERNAL MEDICINE DAY | October 28

    National Internal Medicine Day recognizes the impact of approximately 300,000 Internal Medicine Physicians on October 28.

    #NationalInternalMedicineDay

    Internal Medicine Physicians, also known as internists, are the cornerstone of comprehensive health care. They are experts in complexity who see every connection in the adult human body. They serve, and lead, in a variety of settings. Their expertise is vital to patients, medical professionals, and health care.

    What do Internal Medicine Physicians do? Internal Medicine Physicians specialize in adult medicine. They are specially trained to solve diagnostic problems, manage severe long-term illnesses, and help patients with multiple, complex chronic conditions. They see the big picture, and their deep training and knowledge give them a unique perspective of how everything works in unison. They provide comprehensive, longitudinal patient care and have life-long relationships with adult patients. Often, other medical professionals call upon Internal Medicine Physicians for their ability to connect the dots, help solve problems, and identify solutions.

    Some Internal Medicine Physicians also pursue additional training to subspecialize in a specific area of internal medicine. This specialized training includes:

    • Cardiology
    • Endocrinology
    • Gastroenterology
    • Rheumatology
    • Infectious disease

    Internal Medicine Physicians serve and lead in a variety of settings, such as private practices, clinics, hospitals, and health systems. Conducting research, teaching in medical schools and residency programs are a few areas internists offer their expertise. They also hold leadership positions in business, technology, and government settings.

    Significant Contributions

    As the foundation of clinical care, Internal Medicine Physicians have made significant contributions to the health care industry, both in public and private sectors. Some notable contributions include:

    • Noble prize winners for groundbreaking research in dialysis, genetics and cardiac factors, and peptic ulcer disease.
    • Groundbreaking HIV/AIDS research.
    • Development of innovations in treating chronic illness.
    • Leaders in infectious disease prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

    INTERNAL MEDICINE CELEBRATION

    • Visit the  American College of Physicians (ACP) website to learn more about internal medicine and Internal Medicine Physicians.
    • Explore printable and shareable social media content on ACP’s National Internal Medicine Day webpage.
    • Celebrate and share why you are proud to be an Internal Medicine Physician.
    • Tell the world why you are vital to patients, medical professionals, and the health care system.
    • Share and comment on social media about the impact you are making and use #NationalInternalMedicineDay, #IMProud and #IMPhysician while posting.

    HISTORY OF NATIONAL INTERNAL MEDICINE DAY 

    NIMD Logo

    National Internal Medicine Day was established in 2019 by the National Day Calendar and the American College of Physicians (ACP) to recognize the contributions of internal medicine physicians who are united by a commitment to excellence around the globe. Representing approximately 160,000 Internal Medicine Physicians, the ACP consists of internal medicine specialists, subspecialists, and medical students. In fact, the organization is the largest medical-specialty society in the world, and its mission is to enhance the quality and effectiveness of health care by fostering excellence and professionalism in the practice of medicine.

    About American College of Physicians

    Founded in 1915, the ACP promotes the science and practice of medicine. Since its founding, the ACP supports Internal Medicine Physicians in their quest for excellence and shares the most updated medical knowledge. In addition, it also offers top-notch educational resources, practice resources, and demonstrates their commitment to internal medicine and those who practice it. The physicians of ACP lead the profession in education. Through a standard-setting, they share knowledge to advance the science and practice of internal medicine.

  • NATIONAL SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST DAY – August 22

    NATIONAL SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST DAY | AUGUST 22

    National Surgical Oncologist Day recognizes the accomplishments of every lifesaving surgeon who specializes in abolishing cancer!

    #SurgicalOncologistDay

    Surgical oncologists help to both diagnose cancer and cure it through surgery. They may perform a needle biopsy to take a sample or perform surgery to remove all or parts of the cancerous tissue. At the same time, they work with a team of experts to provide you with the best possible care available.

    Surgical oncologists also strive to learn more and better understand the variety of cancers we face daily. As experts in their field, they continuously seek improvements in care for their patients. From cutting edge techniques to the latest in research and therapies, surgical oncologists push toward a cure every day. Their dedication and leadership in the field of oncology make a difference in the lives of cancer patients today and tomorrow.

    HOW TO OBSERVE SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST DAY

    Donate to your favorite cancer charity such as Lean On Me Breast Cancer Network. Show appreciation to your favorite surgical oncologist. Let them know what made a difference in your care. Share successful and compassionate surgical oncology stories using #SurgicalOncologistDay, #SurgicalOncologist on social media.

    NATIONAL SURGICAL ONCOLOGIST DAY HISTORY

    Lean on Me Breast Cancer NetworkIn March of 2019, Jenni Cherlin & the Lean On Me Breast Cancer Network founded National Surgical Oncologist Day to recognize the hard work and dedication of surgical oncologists everywhere.

    About Dr. Dwight Carlton De Risi

    August 22nd honors Dr. Dwight Carlton De Risi. He is a world-renowned surgical oncologist with over 30 years of experience in his field. Dr. De Risi was born on August 22, 1947. He is the first trained surgical oncologist on Long Island, specializing in diseases of the breast. After growing up on Long Island, he attended Seton Hall University and received his doctorate from Georgetown University School of Medicine. Dr. De Risi completed his residency at North Shore University Hospital. He earned his graduate surgical oncology fellowship degree from Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, NY – America’s first cancer institute and the first in the United States to be accredited by the Society of Surgical Oncology.

    A Leader in His Field

    Having treated tens of thousands of patients over the years, Dr. De Risi remained a leader in his field, introducing and popularizing cutting edge surgical and diagnostic techniques, which have now become standards of care. He has been recognized and honored for his accomplishments by several organizations, including Seton Hall Pre Medical Honor Society Alpha Epsilon Delta. The community knows Dr. De Risi to be compassionate and hold late office hours. He attributes his success to his family (which includes his wife Donna, and his four children Darren, Drew, Dara, and Deirdre), his incredible office staff, and the love and support from his dedicated patients.

    Through the efforts of his loyal supporters, Dr. De Risi created the non-profit support group called Lean On Me Breast Cancer Networks Inc. Since May of 2000, over seventy volunteers have helped guide and comfort several thousand newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. These volunteers provide a vital to a patient’s journey from diagnosis and treatment to wellness. Additionally, the organization plans several exciting and enjoyable fundraising events throughout the year. These events help patients realize the importance of living each day to its fullest.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed National Surgical Oncologist Day to be observed on August 22nd annually.

     

  • NATIONAL TEAL TALK DAY – September 23

    TEAL TALK DAY | SEPTEMBER 23

    Let’s talk. September 23rd is Teal Talk Day and each year, over 249,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer worldwide. So, gather your friends, wear teal for a day out together and talk.

    #TealTalkDay

    Join a group of co-workers for lunch. Men are welcome, also. They have mothers, wives, daughters, and sisters at risk for ovarian cancer. They should have the Teal Talk, too! Since no standard screening exists for ovarian cancer, awareness gives us our best defense. The talk takes very little time. Have a Teal Talk over lunch. In that time, approximately 28 women will receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis.

    Invite your closest friends, neighbors, and sisters for drinks in the back yard. Wear your favorite teal and give the Teal Talk. Let them know early detection improves survival rates by 90%. Make sure they know the symptoms.

    • Persistent bloating
    • Lack of energy
    • Loss of appetite
    • Feeling fuller sooner.

    During your Teal Talk, find more signs at Ovarcome.org.

    Go for a walk with your mom and her friends. Even a short walk will be long enough for a Teal Talk. Ask them about family history and encourage them to share it with their daughters and granddaughters. Urge them to see their gynecologist to review family history for inherited risk factors. Families with a strong history of ovarian or breast cancer have a 15-40% lifetime risk when compared to the general population, according to the National Cancer Institute.

    HOW TO OBSERVE TEAL TALK DAY

    Find out more information at Ovarcome.org and have the Teal Talk with the people in your lives. Use #TealTalkDay to share on social media.

    • Discuss the symptoms. Don’t hesitate to see a doctor if you have any of the symptoms.
    • Encourage the women in your life to maintain their routine exams.
    • Learn more about ovarian cancer.
    • Support organizations researching treatments, a cure, and advanced screening methods.
    • Support those who receive the diagnosis.
    • Share your story to help inform others.

    Ovarcome Founder Runsi Ayona Sen & Olympic Gymnast and ovarian cancer survivor Shannon Miller share some encouragement to get started on #TealTalkDay in this short video.

    Celebrate Teal Talk Day in honor of all women diagnosed with ovarian cancer, too. Ovarcome encourages you to talk about ovarian cancer, especially on September 23rd, but also every day. Every day is a good day to talk about ovarian cancer. Follow Ovarcome on FBTwitter, and Instagram for information, education, updates, and Teal celebrations! Together, we can Ovarcome!

    TEAL TALK DAY HISTORY

    Ovarcome Logo-01

    Ovarcome founded Teal Talk Day to raise awareness of ovarian cancer and to encourage everyone to talk about it. With no screening currently available, Ovarcome wants you to be on top of symptoms – be empowered. You can help save a life!

    Ovarcome was founded on February 23, 2012. In 2017, Ovarcome celebrated five years of service to the ovarian cancer community by starting this national and global movement. Ovarian cancer is a Silent Disease – but Ovarcome encourages you to be VOCAL about it! In the absence of a screening test, knowledge and awareness empower women and families to overcome the disease. Teal Talk Day brings that knowledge and awareness to you.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar declared Teal Talk Day to be observed on September 23rd, annually.

     

  • NATIONAL PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN WEEK – First Full Week in October

    NATIONAL PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN WEEK

    During the first week of October, Primary Care Physicians around the country come together to focus on improving care for their patients during National Primary Care Physician Week. The week also offers an opportunity to showcase new approaches to healthcare, celebrate progress, network with colleagues and explore new avenues for underserved populations.

    Primary care physicians (PCP) are our first resource to a healthier life. They are the family practice, general practice, pediatricians, gynecologists, and internists who become familiar with our family history, lifestyle, and everyday needs. Many of us spend years with the same PCP, and we rely on them to provide a variety of care.

    And while the week focuses on the roles PCPs play, it’s also an opportunity to learn what services your PCP can offer you. While they often perform routine health screenings, they also treat minor illness and chronic conditions, too. These physicians prescribe and manage our medications and coordinate with other specialists as part of larger care team when serious illness occurs.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #PrimaryCarePhysicianWeek

    Visit local and national organization websites for upcoming events focused on this year’s featured topic. Take time to thank your PCP or give a shout out to the physician who has given you stellar care. You can also remember their staff who work hard, too. Learn more about PCPs and what they do. Share tips on choosing the right PCP for you. Use #PrimaryCarePhysicianWeek to share on social media.

    PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN WEEK HISTORY

    The American Medical Student Association sponsors National Primary Care Physician Week annually.

    There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day® with National Day Calendar®!

  • NATIONAL WOMEN PHYSICIANS DAY – February 3

    NATIONAL WOMEN PHYSICIANS DAY

    On February 3rd, honor the path that female doctors have paved since 1849 as we recognize National Women Physicians Day.

    #NationalWomenPhysiciansDay

    This day marks the birthday of Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States in 1849. Dr. Blackwell initiated the movement that helped women gain entry and equality in the field of medicine.

    If society will not admit of a woman’s free development, then society must be remodeled. ~ Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell

    The day celebrates the courage of Elizabeth Blackwell and the accomplishments of female physicians everywhere. At the same time, the day strives to bring improvements to the workplace for the growing number of women physicians entering the field of medicine.

    While the number of women doctors gradually increased in the last two decades, 2016 statistics show 35% of physicians are women. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine last year revealed that women doctors earn on average 8% less than their male counterparts. That discrepancy, along with nearly a third of women physicians reporting sexual harassment in the workplace and a large majority experiencing gender bias. Clearly, there is still work to be done.

    National Women Physicians Day recognizes the strides made by generations of women doctors. The observance also recognizes that we must strike a balance that allows women to succeed professionally while supporting a family. Join National Women Physicians Day in celebrating these accomplishments and supporting women physicians as colleagues, friends, family, and doctors.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL WOMEN PHYSICIANS DAY

    On February 3rd we are asking not only the medical community, but also our larger community of patients, families, and the public to celebrate National Women Physicians Day in hospitals and clinics, medical schools, and on social media. We are in an exciting time for medicine. We are connecting virtually and creating a collective voice that can be used to create positive changes for physicians and patients alike. Use  #IAMBLACKWELL, #WomensDocsInspire and #NWPD to share on social media. 

    NATIONAL WOMEN PHYSICIANS DAY HISTORY

    In an effort to raise awareness of the importance of a physician-led healthcare team and female physicians’ roles in medicine, Physician Moms Group and Medelita founded February 3rd as National Women Physicians Day. Physician Moms Group successfully celebrated the first National Women Physicians Day on February 3, 2016. 

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar® declared the observance in 2017.

    About Physician Moms Group

    Physician Moms Group (PMG) was founded in November 2014 by Dr. Hala Sabry to bring together women physicians, who are also parents, to collaborate and support each other while sharing their medical expertise in an open forum. The PMG’s mission is to provide resources, a platform to network, and an opportunity to share information with like-minded individuals. The PMG network includes over 65,000 women physicians of all specialties across the globe. For more information, visit www.mypmg.org and follow them on Twitter @PhysicianMomsGp.

    Women Physicians FAQ

    Q. Who are some other notable women physicians from history?
    A. There are many notable women physicians we could mention here, but we’ll start with:

    Rebecca Lee Crumpler (February 8, 1831 – March 9, 1895) – She became the first African-American woman to become a medical doctor in the United States.

    Mary Edwards Walker (November 26, 1832 – February 21, 1919) – During the American Civil War, Walker served as the first female U.S. Army surgeon. She would earn the Medal of Honor, the only woman to receive the honor.

    Virginia Apgar June 7, 1909 – August 7, 1974) – Anyone who has given birth in the last 70 years likely is familiar with the Apgar Score. Virginia Apgar developed the score to assess the health of newborn children within a minute of birth.

    February 3rd Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) History

    1870

    The states ratify the 15th Amendment which reads: “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.”

    1913 

    The cost of the U.S. Civil War prompted the ratification of the 16th Amendment allowing the federal government to impose the first income tax on its citizens.

    1959

    Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, The Big Bopper, and pilot Roger Peterson died in a plane crash following a concert at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa. They were headed to Moorhead, Minnesota in poor weather conditions. The day is known as The Day the Music Died.

    1980

    Celtics Rookie Larry Bird scores the first three-pointer in an All-Star game. East vs. West went into overtime, tied 134-134. He and Earvin Johnson tied it up again at 136-136 but when Bird sank the three-point shot, East never looked back.

    February 3rd Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) History

    Horace Greeley – 1811

    In 1841, the American newspaper editor and publisher founded the New York Tribune.

    Elizabeth Blackwell – 1821

    In 1849, Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman to earn a medical degree in the United States. She became an advocate and mentor to other women seeking careers in the medical field.

    Norman Rockwell – 1894

    The American painter created illustrations for The Saturday Evening Post reflecting popular American culture. Rockwell also painted current events as reflected in his illustrations for Look magazine.

    George Nissen – 1914

    In the 1930s, the American gymnast invented the trampoline.

    Inge Ruth Hardison – 1914

    The American sculptor is best known for her collection entitled “Negro Giants in History.” Included in the collection are busts of Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, and Martin Luther King, Jr.

    Honorable Mentions
    James Michener – 1907
    Blythe Danner – 1943
    Nathan Lane – 1956
    Maura Tierney – 1965
    Sean Kingston – 1990

  • NATIONAL PTSD AWARENESS DAY

    NATIONAL PTSD AWARENESS DAY | JUNE 27

    Each year on June 27th, National PTSD Awareness Day recognizes the effects post-traumatic stress has on the lives of those impacted by it.

    #NationalPTSDAwarenessDay

    Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has a profound effect on the lives of those who suffer from it. The statistics alone are staggering, but can only tell a portion of the story. The trauma and anxiety associated with PTSD is a constant burden, inseparable from the sufferer. It was once a condition that was attributed only to returning combat veterans, but more and more the condition is diagnosed in those who have experienced violent crime or lived through catastrophic events. According to PTSD United, 20% of adults in the United States who have experienced a traumatic event suffer from PTSD.

    The observance not only strives to bring awareness to the public but to also educate and eliminate the stigma associated with PTSD. Many of those with PTSD don’t seek treatment. Sometimes they simply fear the labels attached to PTSD. However, with support and understanding, we may all better understand the signs and provide better care.

    • Trouble sleeping
    • Reliving memories of the event
    • Anxious or on edge
    • Avoidance of things or people who remind you of the event

    Over time, these signs may fade. However, if they don’t, seeking treatment is not only suggested but helpful to many who suffer from PTSD.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PTSD AWARENESS DAY

    Reach out to someone you know who struggles with PTSD. Let them know you care and are there to help. Learn more about PTSD at NIMH or VA.gov. Use #NationalPTSDAwarenessDay to share on social media.

    NATIONAL PTSD AWARENESS DAY HISTORY

    The United States Senate established PTSD Awareness Day in 2010 following then-Sen. Kent Conrad’s efforts to designate a day of awareness as a tribute to Army Staff Sgt. Joe Biel of the North Dakota National Guard. Biel suffered from PTSD and took his life in April 2007 after returning to North Dakota following his second tour of duty in the Iraq War.

    Biel’s birthday, June 27th, was chosen to mark PTSD Awareness Day and honor his memory.

  • NATIONAL EYEWEAR DAY | JUNE 6

    NATIONAL EYEWEAR DAY

    June 6 is National Eyewear Day on the National Day Calendar and we can clearly see the importance of bringing awareness to eye health and comprehensive eye exams. Join us as we share why taking care of your eyes is important to you health.

    #NationalEyewearDay

    Spectacles have been around for about seven centuries, but early versions were only worn by monks and scholars. In fact, the first pair of eyeglasses consisted of two magnifying glasses that were set into bone with a hinge on the nose. These first glasses were invented in Northern Italy around the late 13th century. The first wearers of eyeglasses were monks who used the spectacles to copy religious manuscripts. They wore them to read as well. Unfortunately, though, monks and other scholars who wore these eyeglasses had a hard time keeping them on their face.

    In 1452, the invention of the printing press caused the demand for eyeglasses to soar. Many manufacturers came up with ways to make them more wearable. However, it wasn’t until 1730 that an optician from London added rods to the frames so that they could rest on the ears. About 22 years later, hinges were added to the rods. Through the years, there have been many eyeglass innovations.

    5 Eyewear Innovations

    1. Bifocals were invented in the 1760s. These eyeglasses made it possible to see objects both close up and far away.
    2. Monocles were developed in the late 18th century and were worn around the neck. Interestingly, monocles were mainly worn by aristocrats.
    3. Pince-nez were invented in the late 19th century. These eyeglasses were held in place by a spring-clip between the lenses instead of frames.
    4. Sunglasses are a kind of dark eyeglasses that became popular in America around 1929. Eventually, sunglasses became an essential fashion item still in use today.
    5. Ray-Ban are also knowns as “Aviators.” First developed for pilots in the 1930s, Ray-Ban eyeglasses were are now especially popular with celebrities.

    In addition, plastic would change eyewear forever. Since the 1940s, plastic has made it possible to develop frames in a wide range of colors and styles. Some of the most popular eyeglass styles made from plastic have included cat-eye, round-rimmed, and oversized frames.

    Why do we celebrate National Eyewear Day?

    The most important reason we celebrate National Eyewear Day is remind everyone to take good care of their eyes. Here are 3 reasons National Eyewear Day is important:

    1. Get yearly comprehensive routine eye exam.
    2. Keep your prescriptions updated to prevent serious eye problems.
    3. Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays with a pair of sunglasses.

    Today, eyewear continues to not only improve our vision, plus adds elements of style and personality. Imagine John Lennon without his iconic round frames. Would Maverick be Top Gun without his aviators? No one would recognize Harry Caray without his trademark face-covering frames. Can you imagine seeing a picture of Teddy Roosevelt without his frameless glasses?

    Eyewear defines, outlines, and punctuates a personality, too. Eyewear can be a little covert. For example, who is Clark Kent without his frames? Though many may have tried, no one wore the dark tortoise shells better than Audrey Hepburn.

    3 Fun Fact About Eyewear

    1. About 64 percent of the adult population wears prescription eyewear.
    2. 61% of people who need eyewear are nearsighted and 31 percent are farsighted.
    3. Over 12 million Americans need vision correction, but don’t have any eyewear.

    Clearly, eyewear plays a significant role in our lives. From improving vision and protection to providing a variety of style options, it certainly is something to celebrate on National Eyewear Day.

    5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL EYEWEAR DAY

    Wear your favorite eyewear. Whether they are for clearer vision, protection or just to change up your style, eyewear proves to be versatile in many ways. Show off your personality with a new set of frames or change up your look by swapping out old lenses. There are so many ways to celebrate.

    1. Schedule your eye exam, as well as eye exams for the entire family.
    2. Come up with a list of famous people who are known for wearing glasses.
    3. Tell everyone how your eyewear makes you feel. Do your glasses make you feel smart, intelligent, mysterious, stylish, or unique?
    4. Find a place to recycle old eyewear or glasses you no longer wear.
    5. Show us your eyewear style on social media by uploading your photos and tagging #NationalEyewearDay.

    NATIONAL EYEWEAR DAY HISTORY

    Zyloware_WAZ_blue

    Zyloware Eyewear founded National Eyewear Day in 2016 to celebrate the benefits of improved vision and the many styles available. The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day to be observed on June 6th, annually.

    Zyloware Eyewear was founded in 1923 by Joseph Shyer and has been family-owned and operated for 93 years. The company prides itself on quality, service, and customer satisfaction.

  • NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY – Third Saturday in September

    NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY

    On the third Saturday in September, National Gymnastics Day focuses on a sport the Greeks developed in the 5th century B.C.

    #NationalGymnasticsDay

    That’s right. During the 5th century B.C., gymnastics first emerged as a classical sport. The Greeks developed the practice to strengthen warriors’ skills for battle. Since gymnastics focuses on all the necessary physical traits for hand-to-hand combat, it improves strength, dexterity, and concentration.
    Many of the events first exhibited during the Greek Olympics are a part of the competition in the modern Olympics today.
    The “father of modern gymnastics” is Friedrich Ludwig Jahn of Germany. In the 1700s, he perfected many of the events that leave the audiences gasping in awe. Some of those events include parallel bars, balance beam, and jumping events.
    Both an individual and team sport, gymnastics competitions are found all over the world.  Many age and skill levels compete, too. Those who compete at the Olympic level and beyond train several hours daily. To be successful, most start as a young child.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY

    Share stories about celebrated gymnasts, or encourage a gymnast you know. Attend a gymnastic competition near you. Share your experiences in gymnastics. While you’re cheering on your favorite gymnast, be sure to take photos and video. Share them using #NationalGymnasticsDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL GYMNASTICS DAY HISTORY

    Gymnastics Day began in 1998 as a way to encourage gymnasts and bring awareness about the sport.

    Gymnastics FAQ

    Q. What events do gymnasts compete in?
    A. Women and men compete in different events when they compete. Women compete in the vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise. Men compete in six events including floor exercise, still rings, vault, parallel bars, high bar, and pommel horse.

    Q. Who are some accomplished gymnasts?
    A. Simone Biles, Paul Hamm, Kohei Uchimura, Nastia Liukin, Gabby Douglas, Nadia Comaneci, Mary Lou Retton, Valeri Liukin, are just a few.

    Q. When was gymnastics introduced as an Olympic event?
    A. Gymnastics was included as an event at the first Olympic Games in 1896 in Athens, Greece.

    DATES:
    17 September 2022
    16 September 2023
    21 September 2024
    20 September 2025
    19 September 2026
    18 September 2027
    16 September 2028
    15 September 2029
    21 September 2030
    20 September 2031

     

  • NATIONAL NO BRA DAY – October 13

    NATIONAL NO BRA DAY | OCTOBER 13

    National No Bra Day on October 13th encourages wearers to leave that bra at home. 

    #NoBraDay

    The day promotes breast cancer awareness. It also helps raise money for research. Many women who have survived breast cancer are unable to go without a bra as they need it to hold their prosthesis after surgery. Additionally, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and No Bra Day should serve as a reminder for all women to be screened for breast cancer. Most types of breast cancer can be treated if caught early.

    Screenings and breast exams are a part of the early detection process. 

    The first line of defense is a monthly self-breast exam. The best time to do a breast exam is about ten days after the onset of your menstrual cycle. However, fickle as breasts can be, we do become familiar with them even if they are lumpy. We learn what’s healthy or not. For example, they change texture over the month. Sticking to the same time each month will provide a more accurate exam.  For those who don’t menstruate, choose a day of the month always to perform the exam.

    As you become more familiar with the shape and texture of your breast, take note of any changes. Use the mirror to help you, too. Dimpling, swelling, and redness will be signs to look for.  

    When you schedule an annual appointment with your physician, make sure a breast exam is completed, too. Tell your doctor about any changes. If you or your doctor notices any signs, the doctor can order tests, including a sonogram or mammogram.

    Finally, a preventative mammogram is the last line of defense. Today’s mammograms offer more vivid detail of the breast tissue. Baseline mammograms are provided around the age of 35 unless family history indicates sooner. The baseline mammogram provides a comparison view for your physician should something develop later down the line. Women age 40 and over are recommended to receive yearly preventative mammograms. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE NO BRA DAY

    Take charge of your health and make an appointment for a mammogram. Encourage others to do the same. Learn the best time and way to complete a self-breast exam. Other ways to participate include:

    • Set a reminder in your calendar to complete monthly breast exams
    • Share your experience with getting a mammogram. Take the mystery out of the exam for others.
    • Organize a fundraiser. Whether it’s for those without health coverage or to support breast cancer research, you will be making a difference.
    • Make a list of questions to ask your doctor. It will help you to approach the subject of breast exams more easily.

    Use #NoBraDay or #NationalNoBraDay when posting on social media.  Make a contribution to the American Cancer Society or Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

    NO BRA DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar® continues researching the origins of this health-related observance.

     

  • NATIONAL RSV AWARENESS MONTH – October

    NATIONAL RSV AWARENESS MONTH

    National RSV Awareness Month is an annual designation observed in October. RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, is a very common, dangerous virus that infects the respiratory tract of most children before they turn two. The virus is also quite contagious. For the majority of infants and children who get the infection, it causes nothing more than a cold… But for a small percentage, it can be life-threatening. The chance of RSV becoming more severe is most common for babies born prematurely, children under age 2 born with heart or lung disease, infants with weakened immune systems, and children 8-10 weeks old.  There is good news, though.

    A few decades ago, research showed that RSV caused up to 4,500 deaths in the U.S. every year. Now, studies show that number has dropped dramatically. Experts say now, only around 100 babies die annually because of RSV. The decrease comes from major advancements in healthcare.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #RSVAwarenessMonth

    Use #RSVAwarenessMonth to post on social media. If you are pregnant or have a newborn baby, keep an eye out for RSV symptoms just in case your child acquires the infection. Above, we have the risk factors listed. Here are some of the symptoms to look for in your baby.

    1. Your infant is having trouble breathing.
    2. Your child has a cough that is producing yellow, green or even gray mucus. 
    3. They are unusually upset or inactive.
    4. Your baby is suddenly refusing to breastfeed or bottle-feed.
    5. Be sure to be on the lookout for signs of dehydration as well. A lack of tears when crying, little or no urine in the diaper, and/or cool, dry skin could all be indicators of RSV.

    And remember, if your child is very tired, breathing rapidly, or has a blue tint to his or her lips or fingernails, seek professional medical help immediately.

    NATIONAL RSV AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY

    Within our research, we were unable to find the founder of National RSV Awareness Month.