Tag Archives: Awareness

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

NOVEMBER HIGHLIGHTS AWARENESS OF SEVERAL DISEASES

To persons who suffer from any of these diseases, it’s not necessary to be reminded that November is designated as National COPD Awareness Month, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Diabetes Awareness Month, and Epilepsy Awareness Month.  Most of us know persons who have one of these very serious health conditions, and want to do our part to make the world realize that they can help by donating or getting involved. 

On behalf of the 24 million Americans living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the third leading cause of death in the U.S. and a disease that kills one person every four minutes, the COPD Foundation is leading the call for increased research initiatives, enhanced screening and diagnosis, improved treatment and therapies, and heightened public awareness during November, COPD Awareness Month and November 16, 2011, World COPD Day.  COPD encompasses a group of lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, refractory asthma and bronchiectasis. The most common symptoms are breathlessness (or a “need for air”), abnormal sputum (a mix of saliva and mucus in the airway), and a chronic cough. Daily activities, such as walking up a short flight of stairs or taking a shower, can become very difficult as the condition gradually worsens. The primary cause of COPD is tobacco smoke (including second-hand or passive exposure).

Alzheimer’s is a devastating illness.  I have watched loved ones forget who even their closest family members are.  It is a cruel disease.  It takes away the person’s memory and gradually all of their abilities, with symptoms progressively worsening.  Beginning with mild memory loss, until the late stages, the person loses the capability to carry on a conversation or even respond to their environment.  Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.  A worldwide effort is being made to find better ways to treat the disease, delay it’s onset, and prevent it from developing.  There can be other reasons for memory loss, but if you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, consult with your physician, to reassure you that there may be other reasons behind it. 

There are 23.6 million Americans with some form of Diabetes.   Persons with diabetes know that checking their levels every day is very important, and diet plays another important part of staying healthy. 

  • Type 1 – begins in children and young adults.  Type 1 is when the body does not produce insulin.  Five to ten per cent of people have this form of the disease.
  • Type 2 – is the most common form.  The body either does not produce enough insulin, or cells ignore the insulin.  After eating, the body breaks down sugars and starches into glucose, the basic fuel for cells.  Insulin takes sugar from the body into cells.  When glucose builds up in the blood rather than cells, it may lead to diabetes complications.
  • Gestational – sometimes occurs around the 28th week or later of pregnancy.  Most often it doesn’t mean that the mother will have diabetes once her baby is delivered.  It is important that the physician monitor the blood glucose (blood sugar) levels during the pregnancy, so mom and baby will remain healthy.

The Epilepsy Foundation of America is dedicated to the welfare of the more than three million people in the United States with Epilepsy.  The brain is the source of human epilepsy.  Seizures occur when the electric system of the brain malfunctions.  Rather than discharge electric energy in a controlled way, the brain cells can emit a surge of energy through the brain that may cause unconsciousness and contraction of the muscles.  The seizures may last only a couple of minutes, but confusion may linger.  Around 7 out of 10 persons with epilepsy may never know the cause of their seizures.  Things such as head injuries, lack of oxygen to the brain during birth, and other brain injuries may damage the electrical system of the brain.  Although some persons with Epilepsy may be aware of what starts their seizures, many are not.  Many experts feel that most times the cause is patient failure to take their prescribed medications.  Others causes of the beginning of seizures may be stress, sleep patterns, or photosensitivity. 

Thanks to the organizations that support education and awareness of these serious disorders.  America and our friends worldwide hope for a day when there will be preventive measures that can allow future generations to live healthy lives, free from disease.  There are so many worthwhile causes; whether you choose to donate or support the ones we have discussed today, COPD Foundation, Alzheimers’ Association, American Diabetes Association, The Epilepsy Foundation of America, or any organization that is promoting better health, get involved in some way.  Any amount of money or volunteering your time to one or more of these organizations is greatly appreciated.  You may be helping a friend or family member that is or may become a victim of one of these diseases.

Sources:

COPD Foundation/Alzheimer’s.Org/American Diabetes Association/Epilepsy Foundation of America

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

 Breast Cancer Awareness Month is being promoted all through October.  You have no doubt noticed football players wearing pink, as well as groups of folks “Standing Up to Cancer.”  There are more than 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S., thanks to research and medical technology.  Researchers don’t know what causes breast cancer, but they have identified several risk factors. The National Cancer Institute (NCI – www.cancer.gov) lists the following factors as increasing the chances of breast cancer. You may be able to help your employees family, or friends by bringing this promotion to their attention and asking them to privately evaluate their own risks:

❏  Age—most cases occur after age 60
❏  Personal history—cancer in one breast increases risk for the other
❏ Family history—chances increase if mom, sister, or daughter had breast cancer
❏ Breast changes—certain types of abnormal cells increase risk
❏ Gene changes—genes include BRCA1 and BRCA2
❏ Reproductive history—no children or late children increase risk
❏ Menstrual history—pre-age 12 menstruation and post-55 menopause increase risk
❏ Race—white women more at risk
❏ Radiation therapy to chest—before age 30 increases risk
❏ Breast density—more dense tissue and less fatty increases risk
❏  Weight—overweight or obese after menopause increases risk
❏  Activity level—less activity = greater risk
❏  Alcohol—more alcohol = greater risk

Women over age 40 should have an annual mammogram, and understand how to do self-examinations.  Even after reaching past age 70, women should still get mammograms.  Although it is not as common in men, breast cancer can develop in the breast tissue of men.   The notice of any lumps should be brought to the attention of one’s physician. 

I have several friends who have survived breast cancer because of early detection and receiving the proper treatment – surgery and follow-up therapy their doctors thought were best for each particular case.  However, I had a cousin that developed a very aggressive type of breast cancer, and she lived only one year following surgery, and going through every type of treatment possible.  She was 56 years old, and had never had a mammogram, even though her mother had experienced breast cancer.  This should serve as a lesson to all women:  early detection through mammograms can help save lives.  

Breast cancer awareness is also observed internationally during the month of October.  Many charities depend on this promotion to raise money for research.  Let’s hope that mothers, daughters, grandmothers, siblings, and friends will someday not have to worry about breast cancer.  That will truly be a miracle.  For those who are fighting this disease, keep on fighting, and to their friends and families – keep supporting them!  We must always keep the threat of Breast Cancer at the forefront, not just in October.

General Safety Issues

APRIL 28TH – INTERNATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING

Most of us are probably not aware of the significance of April 28th.    It is the International Day of Mourning, set aside to pay our respects to fellow workers who were injured or killed on the job.  The International Day of Mourning not only commemorates the dead, ill and injured, but raises awareness of the importance of occupational health and safety and its role in preventing needless tragedies. 

Initially launched by the Canadian Labour Congress in 1984, the day was officially established as the National Day of Mourning in 1990 after the Canadian government passed the Workers’ Mourning Day Act.  In the United States, the AFL-CIO, America’s union movement, adopted April 28 as Workers’ Memorial Day.  Later, in 1996, the International Confederation of Free Trade organized the first International Day of Mourning, which prompted candle lighting ceremonies to protest unsafe work practices.  More than 85 countries worldwide recognize this important day.  

This year’s theme is “Mourn for the dead, fight for the living.”  Here are ways that you can do just that:

  • Be a safety mentor to a new worker.
  • Find the lesson to be learned from a workplace injury or fatality you’ve heard about.
  • Hold a candlelight vigil to remember workers who died.
  • Take 5 minutes to listen to Stacy Smallwood’s OHS performance poetry, a beautiful tribute to those who died on the job.
  • No matter where you are in North America, dedicate a flower to a fallen worker on the WorkSafeBC memorial website.  As you watch the flower fall, take a moment of silence to honor a friend, family member or colleague. 

There are probably very few of us who have not known someone who died on the job, as a result of either unsafe work conditions, lack of training, or carelessness on the part of the worker.  One of the ways that you can help others is to be a safety mentor to co-workers, at all times, as mentioned above.  Don’t take unnecessary chances; go to your supervisor if you feel your tasks are compromised. 

The following is an excerpt from an AFL-CIO Facts About Safety and Health Department report, dated April 18, 2011:  “This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the effective date of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.  The Act – which guarantees every American worker a safe and healthful working environment – created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to set and enforce standards and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to conduct research and investigations.  This year also marks the 42nd anniversary of the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act, and 34th anniversary of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act.  Since 1970, workplace safety and health conditions have improved.  More than 431,000 workers can now say that their lives have been saved since the passage of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.  However, many workers remain in serious danger, as demonstrated by the Massey Energy West Virginia coal mine disaster last April that killed 29 miners, the Tesoro Refinery explosion in Washington state a few days earlier that killed 7 workers, and the BP/Transocean Gulf Coast oil rig explosion that claimed 11 workers lives.” 

Approximately 1,000 Canadian workers and over 5,000 American workers die annually in work-related incidents.  Canadian workplaces average three workers dying on the job every day, with more than 900,000 workplace injuries reported every year.  An average of 16 workers in the U.S. die each day from injuries received at work, and 134 are estimated to die from work-related diseases.  Each day in America, approximately 9,000 workers are treated in emergency rooms because of occupational injuries.  These statistics indicate that we have a long way to go before we reach the safety goals that North American workers deserve. 

CCOHS, OSHA, CDC/NIOSH hope that the annual observance of this day will strengthen the resolve to establish safe conditions in the workplace for everyone.  It is as much a day to remember the dead as it is a call to protect the living.

General Safety Issues, Health Issues, Uncategorized

MEDICATION SAFETY WEEK, APRIL 1 – 7

The Women’s Heart Foundation sponsors this April observance to promote awareness about the importance of keeping accurate records and understanding about the medicines that we take.  The U.S.F.D.A. estimates that $77 billion is spent annually on preventable medication-related illnesses.  Listed below are suggestions from the Women’s Heart Foundation for us to do on each of the seven focus days:

  • April 1: Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet
    Start with a clean slate. Discard outdated medicines and old prescriptions. Many drugs lose their potency over time. Store medicines in their original containers and in a cool, dry place. Locate medicines away from children and pets and from those who do not understand.
  • April 2: Know Your Medicines
    Know both the generic and trade names of your medicines. Know how to identify pills and what they are for. Make a list of all the medicines you are taking. Write down both the generic and brand names of medicines to prevent inadvertently double-dosing. Be able to identify pills by name. List prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, birth control pills, patches and supplements. Keep the list updated and keep it with you at all times.
  • April 3: Read Medicine Labels Carefully
    Are you taking what your doctor ordered and the way he ordered it? Note precautionary stickers on the label. Note the route, dose and frequency of your medicines. Keep medicines in their original containers. Pay attention to warnings. Note that some medicines can react with foods; others have to be taken on an empty stomach. Some lose potency quickly and must be kept in an air-tight container. The effectiveness of many medicines is dependent upon taking them at the correct times. How the medicine is to be taken ––the route–– is also important (i.e. by mouth, through the skin, under the tongue, inhaling. etc.)
  • April 4: Dietary Supplements Awareness
    Before you start taking a dietary supplement,  discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist.  Herbal medicines and other dietary supplements can react with medicines and have an unknown synergistic effect. All herbal preparations are contraindicated while pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • April 5: Organize Your Medicines
    Keep an updated record listing all medicines and supplements you are taking. Use of a medicine organizer box may be helpful, especially for those taking more than one pill several times a day, however, a medicine organizer box requires close monitoring, especially when there is a change in medicines. Also, be aware that use of an organizer box violates the rule of keeping medicines in their original containers. Managing pills with a medicine organizer box, while convenient, is not without risk. Take medicines as prescribed. New drugs with time-released action can offer some help with organizing with only once-a-day medicating. Ask your doctor about these newer medicines. Keep your medicine record up-to-date.
  • April 6: Transitional Care Awareness
    A change in medical regimen can be confusing and can place you at increased risk. Be diligent about communication with all healthcare professionals. Make sure you understand your medicines and how you are to take them before leaving the hospital or doctor’s office. Ask for written instructions. Be extra cautious whenever there is a change in your medical regimen. Double-check your medicines when picking up a new or refilled prescription. If in a hospital or nursing home, make sure the nurse checks your I.D. bracelet before giving you your pills. If a pill doesn’t look familiar, ask why. It may be a generic of the same drug you were taking however, if you don’t ask, you won’t know! Make sure you receive written instructions upon discharge from any medical facility and insist that both the generic and brand names of each drug you are to take is included.
  • April 7: Better Communication With Health Professionals
    Actively seek information from your pharmacist about the pills and the supplements that you are taking. Ask for print-out sheets on drugs and read them!  Discuss all risks and benefits with your prescribing practitioner. Share information about the medicines and supplements you are taking with all your prescribing practitioners and with your pharmacist. Discuss expected effects and possible side effects.  Report adverse drug effects promptly and never hesitate to ask questions when it comes your health and the use of medicines. Your doctor, healthcare practitioner and pharmacist are there to help…just ask!

We cannot be too careful when taking medications.   Communication is the key to the prevention of medication errors.  This excellent information is useful for individuals and sharing with co-workers.

Source: Women’s Heart Foundation

General Safety Issues

SAFETY TIPS FOR WOMEN

The world we live in is inhabited by many predators, some who prey on women; regardless of their age, females are targets, and must do all they can to be aware of their surroundings in order to be safe.  Women may be victims of domestic abuse – violence committed by a boyfriend or someone they know.  Some acts of aggression are drug or alcohol related.  Statistics show that many acts of crime against women go unreported. 

According to the National Crime Victims Rights Resource Guide, the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs and Office of Victims of Crimes, statistics from 2007 show that in the next hour, somewhere in the United States, the following will happen:

  • 900 thefts;
  • 189 violent crimes;
  • 124 assaults;
  • 66 robberies;
  • 24 sexual assaults;
  • 12 rapes; and
  • 2 murders.

Note: these numbers were from a 2007 report; without doubt, the totals have increased since that time.  Of course, not all these will result in crimes against women, but our focus for today is to help women understand how to live more safely.  One suggestion is to wear expensive jewelry on special occasions only, when you are not alone. 

In vehicles, remember:

  • Stepping out of the car either at home or in an isolated area can be a danger area.
  • Check your car before entering it.
  • Always be alert in parking lots, especially if it is dark.  If you are at a mall, don’t be shy about asking security to walk you to your car.
  • Never leave the car unlocked, even for a few minutes.
  • If someone pulls up beside you and points to a tire, don’t pull over.  Drive to a police station or busy place before you get out of your car.
  • Be sure your doors are locked and windows are up when you stop at an intersection.
  • If someone is pointing a knife or handgun at you from inside the car, don’t get into it, but run and scream.  More than likely, he will drive off, but if you enter the car, he has a better chance to harm you. 

If you take public transportation, remember:

  • Wait inside a coffee shop until the bus or train arrives.
  • Don’t sit by a window, in order to avoid someone sitting beside you and blocking your exit.
  • Choose train compartments carrying the most passengers or sit directly behind the driver.
  • Sit behind the bus driver or next to the door for a quick exit. 

At work:

  • Be thoughtful about the clothing you plan to wear.  You don’t want to get the wrong kind of attention.
  • Be friendly and polite, but be attentive for signs of “odd” behavior.  Do not flirt.
  • Be firm about unwanted attention.
  • Do not share personal information such as living alone, marital status, etc.
  • Trust your instincts. 

While walking or jogging:

  • If you are in an isolated area, don’t use your music headset; stay alert.
  • Change your routes on a regular basis.
  • Don’t be temped to use your cell phone while walking; don’t become distracted.
  • The “buddy system” is always best; don’t go alone.  There is safety in numbers.
  • If you feel as though someone in a car is following you, turn around and take another route.
  • If you walk/jog in your neighborhood, find houses that you feel you are welcome to use as a “safe house,” – one that you can find refuge in, owned by a friend or acquaintance.
  • Always have your cell phone with you. 

In social settings:

  • Do not drink excessive amounts of alcohol, or take drugs that can alter your personality and actions.
  • Stay with your group.
  • Do not leave with strangers.
  • Never leave any food or drink unattended where it could be tampered with. 

Keep in mind, that you need your cell phone with you at all times.  There are safety items that may be purchased to give you a little peace of mind, such as pepper spray, or a personal alarm, which is a small but loud device that will draw attention to an emergency situation.  The pepper spray causes pain to an attacker, and lasts about 20-30 minutes but causes no permanent damage.  In many states, it is unlawful to use something such as pepper spray or mace unless it is for self-defense. 

Many sexual acts are committed by people that the victims know, or thought they did.  An attack is usually preceded by a visual sign, which is often preceded by a verbal approach before the physical action.  Recognize the sequence: the look – the talk – the attack.  Most women think this can never happen to them, but it can occur anytime, anywhere, to all ages.  Recently, a 60-something year-old  lady was kidnapped and assaulted for days by a 58 year-old man.  He had been asking her out, but she was not interested.  After telling her family about the man, he took her hostage, burning her house and car.  Because she had mentioned the man to her family, law authorities found both of them in his home several miles away.  Because he tied her up, she was virtually helpless.  Now he is in jail, and hopefully, will be put away for a long time, where he cannot hurt or threaten anyone else.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times.  Stay in touch with family and friends so they know where you can be reached.  We just can’t be too careful!

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

MEN & WOMEN: WEAR RED THIS FRIDAY!

Friday, February 4, is National Wear Red Day, a day when Americans nationwide will take women’s health to heart by wearing red to show their support for women’s heart disease awareness.  February is American Heart Month. How many of us have not had a family member or friend that has fallen victim to heart disease?  Heart Disease is the #1 killer of men and women.  It is the leading cause of death among one in three women. 

The Centers for Disease Control reports that heart disease is the leading cause of death in women age 65 and older.  It is the third leading cause of death in women ages 25-44, and second leading cause of death in women ages 45 – 64.  A woman’s risk of heart disease starts to rise around age 40,  but these messages are very important for younger women, because heart disease develops gradually and can begin at a young age – even in teen years.  Older women have an interest, as well.  It is never too late to take action to prevent and control the risk factors for heart disease.  Remember, most cases of heart disease can be prevented.

Lifestyle factors play a very important role in becoming heart-healthy and staying that way.  Women need to be aware of their family history and take preventative measures against heart disease.  They should talk to their physician and share information regarding family members who have had strokes or heart attacks.  They should have regular checkups, where their doctor can monitor their cholesterol and triglyceride levels. 

Eating foods that are healthy are one of the most important choices we all must make.  We must use portion control and exercise in order to keep our weight at a normal level.  Avoid beverages and foods that are loaded with extra sugars, and choose fat-free, 1% fat, or low-fat dairy products, and lean meat and poultry.   A very wise choice would be to not smoke, but if you do, stop.  Limiting alcohol intake is suggested, also.  Walking just 30 minutes per day for at least 5 days per week is an excellent way to keep our heart healthy.  It isn’t that difficult to increase physical activity at home, work or play by taking a few extra steps or a short walk on our lunch break.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and partner organizations are sponsoring a national campaign called the Heart Truth.  This campaign’s goal is to give women a personal and urgent wakeup call about the risk of heart disease.  They also want to inform women of color that heart disease disproportionately affects them.  African American and Hispanic women in particular have high rates of major risk factors for heart disease, including obesity, physical inactivity, high blood pressure and diabetes, according to NHLBI statistics.  

Symptoms of heart attack can range from sudden and intense pain to slower signs, beginning with mild pain or discomfort.  The key is not to wait too long for medical attention.  Certain signs can be chest discomfort such as pressure, squeezing, or pain, upper body discomfort, shortness of breath, and/or lightheadedness, cold sweat, or nausea.  Call 9-1-1 immediately at the onset of any of these symptoms.

This is an opportunity for all of us – men and women – to unite in this life-saving awareness movement by wearing a favorite red dress, shirt, or tie, even a T-shirt, and possibly convince others to live a more heart-healthy life.  Join The Heart Truth on National Wear Red Day to help spead the critical message that, “Heart Disease Doesn’t Care What You Wear – It’s the #1 Killer of Women.”

Source: NHLBI, Centers for Disease Control

General Safety Issues

NOVEMBER REMINDS US TO BE AWARE OF THESE HEALTH PROBLEMS

To persons who suffer from any of these diseases, they and their families don’t have to be reminded that November is designated as National COPD Awareness Month, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Diabetes Awareness Month, and Epilepsy Awareness Month.  Most of us know persons who have one of these very serious health conditions, and want to do our part to make the nation realize that they can help by donating or getting involved. 

On behalf of the 24 million Americans living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the third leading cause of death in the U.S. and a disease that kills one person every four minutes, the COPD Foundation is leading the call for increased research initiatives, enhanced screening and diagnosis, improved treatment and therapies, and heightened public awareness during November, COPD Awareness Month and November 16, 2011, World COPD Day.  COPD encompasses a group of lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, refractory asthma and bronchiectasis. The most common symptoms are breathlessness (or a “need for air”), abnormal sputum (a mix of saliva and mucus in the airway), and a chronic cough. Daily activities, such as walking up a short flight of stairs or taking a shower, can become very difficult as the condition gradually worsens. The primary cause of COPD is tobacco smoke (including second-hand or passive exposure).

Alzheimer’s is a devastating illness.  I have watched loved ones forget who even their closest family members are, and it is one of the most cruel diseases I can think of.  It takes away the person’s memory and gradually all of their abilities.  It is a disease where symptoms progressively get worse.  Beginning with mild memory loss, until the late stages, the person loses the capability to carry on a conversation or even respond to their environment.  Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.  A worldwide effort is being made to find better ways to treat the disease, delay it’s onset, and prevent it from developing.  There can be other reasons for memory loss, but if you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, consult with your physician, to reassure you that there may be other reasons behind it. 

There are 23.6 million Americans with some form of Diabetes.   Persons with diabetes know that checking their levels every day is very important, and diet plays another important part of staying healthy. 

  • Type 1 – begins in children and young adults.  Type 1 is when the body does not produce insulin.  Five to ten per cent of people have this form of the disease.
  • Type 2 – is the most common form.  The body either does not produce enough insulin, or cells ignore the insulin.  After eating, the body breaks down sugars and starches into glucose, the basic fuel for cells.  Insulin takes sugar from the body into cells.  When glucose builds up in the blood rather than cells, it may lead to diabetes complications.
  • Gestational – sometimes occurs around the 28th week or later of pregnancy.  Most often it doesn’t mean that the mother will have diabetes once her baby is delivered.  It is important that the physician monitor the blood glucose (blood sugar) levels during the pregnancy, so mom and baby will remain healthy.

The Epilepsy Foundation of America is dedicated to the welfare of the more than three million people in the United States with Epilepsy.  The brain is the source of human epilepsy.  Seizures occur when the electric system of the brain malfunctions.  Rather than discharge electric energy in a controlled way, the brain cells can emit a surge of energy through the brain that may cause unconsciousness and contraction of the muscles.  The seizures may last only a couple of minutes, but confusion may linger.  Around 7 out of 10 persons with epilepsy may never know the cause of their seizures.  Things such as head injuries, lack of oxygen to the brain during birth, and other brain injuries may damage the electrical system of the brain.  Although some persons with Epilepsy may be aware of what starts their seizures, many are not.  Many experts feel that most times the cause is patient failure to take their prescribed medications.  Others causes of the beginning of seizures may be stress, sleep patterns, or photosensitivity. 

Thanks to the organizations that support  education and awareness of these serious disorders.  America and our friends worldwide hope for a day when there will be preventive measures that can allow future generations to live healthy lives, free from disease.  There are so many worthwhile causes; whether you choose to donate or support the ones we have discussed today, COPD Foundation, Alzheimers Association, American Diabetes Association, The Epilepsy Foundation of America, or any organization that is promoting better health, get involved in some way.  You may be helping a friend or family member that is or may become a victim of one of these diseases. 

Sources:

COPD Foundation/Alzheimer’s.Org/American Diabetes Association/Epilepsy Foundation of America

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Health Issues

THINK PINK FOR SAFETY!

We’ve already mentioned that October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but we feel that it is such an urgent matter for women to be aware of what they can do to protect their health that it deserves more attention.   National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to increase public knowledge and stress the importance of early detection.  This is a worldwide effort being  made by charities and medical communities  in many countries.

When a person gets breast cancer, it affects the entire family, and everyone who cares about them – friends, co-workers, everyone.  Experts report that for every 100 women who has breast cancer, one man has it, as well.  Self-examinations and mammography can save lives.  Anyone who finds a suspicious lump in their breast should see their physician as soon as they can.  Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, following non-melanoma skin cancer. 

During NBCAM, pink is the primary color, used as decorations, in clothing, and worn by both men and women.  You see pink at all types of events.  Persons are able to find just about any type of pink product they can think of:  sweatbands, pink label pins, bracelets, socks, head wraps, baseball caps, shirts, (I loved the one that says “Fight Like A Girl”), office supplies, balloons – you name it, and it has probably been manufactured.  These items all promote the idea of being aware of breast cancer and supporting the women who are fighting the disease.  Portions of the profits from many of the sales go for cancer research. 

We in the safety business want to show our support for those fighting breast cancer, with pink safety products.  Items such as pink camo gloves, MSA hard hats, Skullbucket hardhats, and pink earmuffs are all available at http://www.tasco-safety.com/womens-pink-safety-products.html#475358.   Safety experts have known that Personal Protective Equipment must have a better fit for working women, so these types of glasses, gloves, hardhats and other safety products are made smaller for women.  We all know that if PPE doesn’t fit properly, it won’t protect as well.

And who says men can’t wear pink hardhats?  Any man who has a loved one fighting breast cancer can show his support – even while on the job.  Most of us know one or more women who have been through this battle.  We can help in many ways: by donating to cancer research, by prayer, by taking them to the doctor or for treatment, and by simply being there.

Do what you can help them win the battle over breast cancer.

General Safety Issues, Health Issues

‘THINK PINK’ AGAIN THIS YEAR!

Because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you will probably see a lot more people wearing pink.  For the past twenty-six years, this project has promoted awareness and education regarding breast cancer, which is the most common cancer in women, with the exception of skin cancers.  Breast cancer is the country’s second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. 

National public service associations such as the America Cancer Society, medical associations, and government agencies have all joined together in promoting breast cancer issues.  Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also observed internationally during October, with many charities raising funds for research.  It was great watching NFL teams wearing pink this past Sunday-either pink gloves, pink wristbands, or pink shoes.  Check out your community’s plans for promoting this worthy cause, and see how you can participate.   

According to the National Cancer Institute, age is the single most important risk factor.  Other things to consider are:

  • Family history; About 30% of women with breast cancer have a family history of it.
  • Body weight; being overweight increases the risk, especially in post-menopausal women.
  • Lack of physical activity; exercise tends to reduce the risk of breast cancer and recurrence of it.
  • Alcohol consumption; drinking alcohol slightly increases the risk.
  • Gender; breast cancer is 100 times more common in women than men.
  •  Age; Studies show that older women are more at risk, with about 80% of all cases in women over 50.
  •  HRT: long-term (several years) of hormone replacement therapy slightly increases the risk. 

Early detection is very important.  Physicians or mammography centers can show women how to do self-exams, and annual mammograms can save lives.  Surprisingly, one-half of breast cancer cases show up in women over age 65; therefore, they should continue getting mammograms through their 70’s. 

You will see all types of benefits and activities in October, promoting this very important issue that affects thousands.  If you see a man wearing pink, tell him “thanks”.  Chances are he has a mom, grandmother, wife, or daughter that he hopes won’t have to face breast cancer, or that he knows someone who is fighting the battle.  There are over 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in our country, thanks to the hard work that cancer research and medical technology have provided.  These survivors are to be commended for their courage.  Support this worthy cause, either by walking in one of their planned walks, or giving money and any assistance that you are able to do.  Hopefully, cancer research will find a cure for this devastating disease.

There is no one that doesn’t look “pretty in pink!”

 

 

 

 

General Safety Issues

COMING ATTRACTIONS FOR OCTOBER SAFETY!

Can’t believe this is the last day of September!  I hope the days are getting a little cooler where you are, and that you are enjoying crisp, cool mornings!

There are so many safety topics that we will cover in October.  Because October is Fire Safety Month, and Fire Prevention Month, we will be talking about many of the ways that we can make our homes and workplaces “fire-proof.”

October is Animal Safety and Protection Month.  As an animal lover, it is particularly important to me that we all keep our pets as healthy and safe as possible.

National Cyber Safety Awareness Month is observed in October.  We all have heard of the horrible things that can occur because of persons that abuse the use of computers to do things that are unspeakable.  Whether it is personal identity theft, or harrassment, using a computer as a tool to harm others is unacceptable.

Another observance for October is Helmet Safety Month.  We talk a lot about the dangers of sports activities and work duties that are involved when helmet or hardhat is not worn.  Please be sure your kids wear those helmets when riding their bikes to school!

I think there’s even a Drive Safely Work Week in October, so looks like I have plenty of work ahead of me! 

A very important occasion for families is Halloween, especially if there’s little spooks involved.  Start making your plans now for a safe one for all concerned.  Map out the route you plan to take the kids, and go with them on that busy night.

Until tomorrow, enjoy your last day of September, 2010.