The United States Congress designated January as Cervical Health Awareness Month. More than 13,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer each year, but the disease is preventable with vaccination and appropriate screening.

During January, NCCC and its many local chapters across the country highlight issues related to cervical cancer, HPV disease and the importance of early detection. While NCCC chapters host events throughout the year, January is a month with a special focus as chapters celebrate Cervical Health Awareness Month and work to spread the word in their communities.

A thyroid is a small gland with a major impact on one’s health.  It is estimated that over 30 million Americans have thyroid dysfunction and it is five times more likely that women develop thyroid problems.

Having thyroid disfunction can affect many aspects of your life including your weight and your mental health. It’s important to check your thyroid if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty sleeping
• Weight gain
• Weight loss
• Trouble sleeping

Talk to your doctor about thyroid dysfunction if you are having any of the above symptoms.

According to the American Red Cross, winter is “one of the most difficult times of year to collect enough blood products to meet patient needs.” That’s because of, among other things, busy holiday schedules and bad weather often resulting in canceled blood drives. Furthermore, seasonal illnesses such as the flu force potential donors to forgo their blood donations.

That’s just one of the reasons that National Blood Donor Month, which has taken place each January since 1970, is such an important observance. Donating blood saves many lives and improves health for many people. According to the World Health Organization, “blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person — the gift of life. A decision to donate your blood can save a life.

The Cardiometabolic Health Congress (CMHC) will be holding a special masterclass live on January 28-29, 2021.