World AIDS Day

Every December 1st is recognized as World AIDS Day. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome or AIDS is the advanced stage of the infection caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus or HIV. Over 1 million people nationwide have HIV or AIDS and 1 in 4 do not know they are living with it. There is currently no cure for AIDS however there are more ways to live a long full life with disease management. Using antiretrovirals can help prevent the spread of HIV by preventing the replication of the HIV cycle in your system if you have HIV.

World AIDS Day was started in 1988 to help increase awareness and knowledge about the disease. Check out the resources below to help share information for the whole month of December. 

Helpful Resources:

• CDC HIV Prevention
• HIV.gov - World AIDS Day
• HIV Treatment
• HIV/AIDS: The Basics Information

Diabetes & COVID-19

There are 2 types of diabetes that affect more than 34 million Americans currently. This illness can be caused by hereditary issues and or by poor health conditions. 1 in 5 people don't know that they have diabetes and 88 million adults have prediabetes. These statistics seem alarming but with today's advances in technology, and by living a healthy lifestyle, more and more people are able to keep their diabetes under control.

As the pandemic continues to permeate throughout the world, people with diabetes may be at a higher of developing complications due to COVID-19 or other ailments due to the upcoming flu season. There is still very limited information about COVID-19 however the best way to keep yourself safe and healthy is to keep your diabetes under control. The first step to doing this is to consult your primary care physician. Also, learn the symptoms of COVID-19 and learn more about whether you are at risk of having diabetes or another underlying medical condition that could leave you immunocompromised. 

Helpful Links:

• Diabetes and COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions
• Diabetes and COVID-19: Clinical Considerations and Recommendations
• COVID-19: Risky Business for People With Diabetes?
• People with Certain Medical Conditions
• Diabetes Fast Facts

Breathe Easy

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month and now more than ever, it is important to take care of your lungs. Lung cancer is the leading cause of death in the US and the second most diagnosed cancer in both men and women. Smoking cigarettes is the main cause of lung cancer however the lung cancer rates have been decreasing as smoking rates have been going down. 

People at the highest risk for getting lung cancer are those who smoke, those who get second-hand smoke, people exposed to radon and other toxic substances, and those who may have a family history of lung cancer. 

So what can you do to fight lung cancer? First off, take control of your life! Make sure you are living a healthy lifestyle and support those around you as well to do the same. Quitting smoking and refraining from being around smoke is just one step in being healthy. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen is also important in taking care of yourself as well. As this is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, spreading awareness for those battling lung cancer is important too. Learn More about Lung Cancer, healthy habits, and spreading awareness below.

Helpful Links:

• Basic Information about Lung Cancer
• Lung Cancer Awareness Month
• What Can I Do to Reduce My Risk of Lung Cancer?
• COVID-19 & Lung Health