Join Us in Raising Awareness for These Causes in February
By Theo Smith, Communications Intern
Patient advocacy organizations work tirelessly to educate, promote, advocate, and raise awareness and funding for their causes. Awareness events give us the opportunity to rally around a common objective and show these organizations how much we appreciate their work. Here’s how you can help advance these groups’ missions and spread awareness.
American Heart Month
February is American Heart Month. This awareness month was established by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to educate the public about heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association (AHA) promotes healthier lives during the month of February and resources for millions of people for a common goal: to eradicate heart disease and stroke.
Ways to get involved:
- Participate in National Wear Red Day on February 7 to end heart disease and stroke in women.
- Promote awareness February 7-11 during Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week.
- Contribute to the movement to end heart disease and stroke by donating.
National Cancer Prevention Month
The month of February is National Cancer Prevention Month. The American Cancer Society fights to free the world from cancer and provides patients and caregivers resources on their website. This organizations funds and conducts research, shares expert information, support patients, and spreads awareness about prevention.
Ways to get involved:
- Promote awareness about cancer prevention on February 4 for World Cancer Day.
- Volunteer to save lives.
- Register for a local Relay for Life.
- Donate to the American Cancer Society’s efforts.
Children’s Dental Health Awareness Month
National Children’s Dental Health Awareness Month is a month-long health observance to bring together thousands of dedicated professionals, health care providers, and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers and teachers. The American Dental Association (ADA) is America’s leading advocate for oral health and provides resources for parents and caregivers.
Ways to get involved:
- Order a poster to support the ADA’s programming for dental health awareness.
- Download activity sheets and coloring pages about dental health for kids.
- Visit the ADA’s education center to learn more about dental hygiene.
Important Dates:
- February 23-29: National Eating Disorders Awareness Week
- February 29: Rare Disease Day
