Understanding Diabetes: A Closer Look at Type 1 and Type 2

November is National Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness and learn about this health condition that affects 37.3 million people in the United States. That’s about 11.3% of the people in the country. At Henry J. Austin Health Center (HJAHC), we want to make sure you understand how to take care of your health. Let's explore what diabetes is, the different types, and what you should know to stay healthy.

Raising Awareness for Men’s Health

November marks the beginning of "Movember," an annual campaign focused on men's health awareness. This campaign covers issues such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. Men can show their support by growing mustaches and encouraging open conversations about health and regular check-ups.

Protect Yourself from the Tripledemic

It’s officially fall and winter will be here before you know it. This year, we have to be aware of the Tripledemic. The Tripledemic happens when three illnesses - the flu, COVID-19, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) - all come at the same time. This can make lots of people sick, so it's extra important to take care of our health.

Making Halloween Sensory-Friendly

Tips for Supporting Kids with Sensory Processing Issues

Halloween is a time of excitement and imagination, with costumes, candies, and spooky surprises. But for children with sensory processing issues, this holiday can bring unique challenges. Sensory processing issues can make experiences, like costumes and decorations, overwhelming for kids. However, with a little creativity and understanding, parents and caregivers can help make Halloween an enjoyable and inclusive experience for all children. In this article, we'll explore some practical tips for creating a sensory-friendly Halloween and ensuring that your child feels safe and comfortable.

The Vital Importance of Breast Cancer Awareness and Screenings at HJAHC

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual reminder of the crucial importance of early detection, education, and support for individuals and families affected by breast cancer. Henry J. Austin Health Center (HJAHC) is deeply committed to the well-being of the Trenton community and believes that knowledge and early intervention are the keys to preventing and effectively treating breast cancer.

Supporting Youth Recovery: A Shared Journey Towards Healing and Hope

At Henry J. Austin Health Center (HJAHC), we know that recovery isn't something you do on your own; it's a journey we take together toward healing and hope. This week, we want to talk about how important families and caregivers are in helping young people with their recovery.
As parents or guardians, it's crucial to recognize the subtle signs and signals that may indicate a young person is grappling with addiction or on the road to recovery. These challenges are complex and can manifest in various ways, from academic struggles to emotional turbulence.

Promoting Malaria Awareness and Prevention

According to the CDC's report, Florida and Texas have recently experienced an outbreak of locally transmitted Plasmodium Vivax Malaria cases. Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites transmitted through infected mosquitoes and continues to be a significant public health concern worldwide. This serves as a stark reminder that malaria isn't limited to specific regions and can affect any area where infected mosquitoes thrive, including New Jersey. Symptoms of malaria include cyclical fever with chills, headache, weakness, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you suspect signs of malaria, we encourage you to visit www.henryjaustin.org/service or call 609-278-5900 to be seen by a provider.

High Blood Pressure during Pregnancy: Understanding the Risk and Protecting Your Health

Pregnancy is a special time in a woman's life, filled with joy and anticipation. However, it's also a period that demands careful attention to one's health, as certain conditions can pose risks to both the mother and the baby. High blood pressure during pregnancy, a condition known as gestational hypertension, deserves our attention. Recent studies have shed light on the greater risk of pre-eclampsia among black women in the United States (US).

Protecting Your Child’s Skin: Common Rashes and How to Prevent Scratching

School’s out and it’s time for your kids to enjoy the sunshine and fun! It's important to know about common skin rashes in kids. Skin rashes can be concerning, but most of them are harmless and can be treated easily. We'll focus on insect bites, poison ivy, and a contagious skin condition called impetigo. We'll also provide some helpful tips to prevent kids from scratching and making things worse.

Summertime Blues: Seasonal Affective Disorder in the Summer

While most people associate Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) with the winter months, when the lack of sunlight can lead to feelings of sadness and depression, it's important to recognize that SAD can also affect individuals during the summertime. Summertime SAD, also known as reverse SAD, is a lesser-known condition that can have a significant impact on mental health. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and coping strategies for dealing with seasonal affective disorder during the summer months.

Melanoma Awareness Month – Early Detection and Prevention for All Skin Tones

May is recognized as Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention of skin cancer. Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide. It can be prevented by adopting healthy habits like wearing protective clothing and sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, and staying out of the sun during peak hours. Moreover, regular skin check-ups with a dermatologist can help detect skin cancer early and increase the chances of successful treatment. Individuals must be proactive in protecting their skin and maintaining healthy habits, especially during the summer when people spend more time outdoors.

Fuel for the Future

National Nutrition Month is celebrated every March to raise awareness about the importance of healthy eating and physical activity. This year’s theme is Fuel for the Future. “This message encourages us to think about making food choices that are both good for the future of our health as well as the health of the earth and the environment,” said Susan Jones, RDN, HJAHC resident nutritionist. By making sustainable food choices, we can help reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

Empowering Women and Girls: Understanding the Impact of HIV/AIDS and Raising Awareness

March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NWGHAAD), a day to raise awareness about the impact of HIV/AIDS, specifically toward women and girls. This day also serves as an opportunity to educate the public about the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of HIV/AIDS, as well as it’s historical roots. One pioneer who vastly changed the view of the awareness of HIV/AIDS was Dr. Mathilde Krim, an immunologist and medical researcher who dedicated her career to public awareness of AIDS during a time when the public was still learning about the disease.

Celebrating Social Workers Day and the Vital Role of Social Workers in Improving Patients’ Lives

Social Work Month is among the many celebrations in March, with Social Workers Day being celebrated on the third Tuesday of the month. Social work is vital to any community, and it was particularly important during the pandemic. In the face of an unprecedented challenge, social workers played a crucial role in helping people cope with the pandemic and promoting resilience and well-being and continue to play a critical role in the lives of HJAHC patients.