Men and Women’s Health Awareness 

This year, National Women's Health Week begins on May 8 and National Men's Health Week on June 12. While men and women have the same goal of being healthy, it’s important to acknowledge the different biological and social factors of both genders as well as understanding the differences in order to take necessary steps for a healthier lifestyle.

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.

Updates to Henry J. Austin Health Center’s Mask Policy

As of April 18, 2023, Governor Phill Murphy announced that the state of New Jersey no longer has a statewide universal directive mandating people to wear masks in healthcare settings. Henry J. Austin Health Center (HJAHC) will continue to monitor community transmission rates to ensure a safe environment for patients to receive care without risking exposure to the virus.

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.

Most adult smokers want to quit. But less than 1/3 are using proven methods to help.

The Surgeon General put out the first report on smoking and health back in 1964. Since then, smoking among U.S. adults has gone from 43% to about 14% in 2018. But even though the numbers have improved, it’s still the leading preventable cause of death and disease in this country.
Learn more about the steps you can take to quit smoking and stay healthy.