We all have a role to play in women’s health. Women often serve as caregivers for their families, putting the needs of their spouses, partners, children, and parents before their own. As a result, women’s health and well-being becomes secondary. As a community, we have a responsibility to support the important women we know and do everything we can to help them take steps for longer, healthier, and happier lives.

National Women’s Health month brings together communities, businesses, government, health organizations, and other groups in an effort to promote women’s health. The theme for 2012 is “It’s Your Time.” National Women’s Health Week empowers women to make their health a top priority. It also encourages women to take the following steps to improve their physical and mental health and lower their risks of certain diseases:

1. Get preventive screenings! Visit a health care professional to receive regular checkups and preventive screenings. As recommended by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, every two years, all women should receive a blood pressure test. Get tested once a year if you have blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89.  Discuss treatment with your doctor or nurse if you have blood pressure 140/90 or higher. Starting at age 50, women should get screened for breast cancer every two years. Other important screenings for women include screenings for Cervical cancer (Pap test), Chlamydia, cholesterol, Colorectal cancer, diabetes, Gonorrhea, HIV, and Syphilis.
2. Get active! Regular activity can help prevent unhealthy weight gain and also help with weight loss, when combined with lower calorie intake. It can also improve your cardiorespiratory (heart, lungs, and blood vessels) and muscular fitness.
3. EatHealthy! Following a healthy eating plan doesn’t mean that you can’t indulge every now and then. If what you eat is generally low in fat (especially saturated and trans fat) and sugars and you are getting enough vitamins and minerals, you may indulge in a rich dessert or serving of fried food every once in a while. If, on the other hand, you eat a lot of high-calorie foods, you are likely to get all the calories you need quickly without getting enough vital nutrients.
4. Get enough sleep and manage stress! For the month of May and beyond, try to get a good night’s rest. Adequate sleep makes you more productive and ultimately feel good!
5. Avoid unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking and not wearing a seatbelt or bicycle helmet.

National Women’s Health month motivates women to improve or maintain women’s well-being. Tell us how you plan on promoting women’s health this month!