National Hospital Week 2013 theme was “A Guiding Light For Changing Times”. This was the platform for a week of work and celebration for the staff of CCMH. .....more>>
National Nurse’s Week was celebration May 6-10 and ended on a high note with acknowledging the extraordinary efforts of a member of the Nursing staff. .....more>>
The newly formed Carroll County Memorial Hospital Foundation inaugural event was a success. .....more>>
CLINIC CALENDAR EVENT CALENDAR
MAY MONTH-LONG OBSERVANCES Arthritis Awareness Month (National) Arthritis Walk Better Hearing and Speech Month Better Sleep Month Bike Month (National) Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month (National) Employee Health and Fitness Month (Global) Healthy Vision Month Hepatitis Awareness Month High Blood Pressure Education Month (National) Huntington's Disease Awareness Month Liver Awareness Month Lupus Awareness Month Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month Mental Health Month Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month Older Americans Month Oncology Nursing Month Osteoporosis Month (National) Physical Fitness and Sports Month (National) Stroke Awareness Month (National) Stroke Month (American) Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month (National) Trauma Awareness Month (National) Ultraviolet Awareness Month WEEK-LONG OBSERVANCES 5-11 Children's Mental Heath Week 5-11 Occupational Safety and Health Week (North American) 5-11 Run A Mile Days (National) 6-12 Nurses Week (National) 12-18 Alcohol and Other Drug-Related Birth Defects Week (National) 12-18 Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week (National) 12-18 Food Allergy Awareness Week 12-18 Hospital Week (National) 12-18 Neuroscience Nursing Week 12-18 Nursing Home Week (National) 12-18 Women's Health Week (National) 13-19 Stuttering Awareness Week (National) 19-25 Emergency Medical Services Week (National) 19-25 Medical Transcriptionist Week (National) RECOGNITION DAYS | EVENTS 6 (tentative) Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day (National) 6 Melanoma Monday 8 Allergy and Asthma Day Capitol Hill 8 School Nurse Day (National) 12 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Awareness Day (International) 12 Fibromyalgia Awareness Day (National) 25 Missing Children's Day (National) 29 Senior Health and Fitness Day (National) May 1-31 Arthritis Awareness Month (National) National Arthritis Awareness Month was initiated by the Arthritis Foundation through a Presidential Proclamation in 1972. It aims to raise awareness and reduce the impact of arthritis, which strikes one in every five adults and 300,000 children. It is the leading cause of disability in the US. To conquer this painful, debilitating disease, the Arthritis Foundation supports education, research, advocacy, and other vital programs and services. For more information, contact: Public Relations | Arthritis Foundation | 404.965.7595 | help@arthritis.org | www.arthritis.org May 1-31 Arthritis Walk The Arthritis Walk is the Arthritis Foundation’s signature event. It supports public awareness and raises funds to fight arthritis, the nation’s leading cause of disability. The Arthritis Walk is an annual event that generally takes place during the month of May in conjunction with National Arthritis Awareness Month. The Arthritis Foundation additionally launched Let’s Move Together, a nationwide movement that encourages people to move every day to prevent and treat arthritis. For more information, contact: Public Relations | Arthritis Foundation | 404.965.7595 | help@arthritis.org | www.arthritis.org May 1-31 Better Hearing and Speech Month May is Better Hearing and Speech Month, dedicated to two essential communication tools that can be affected by medical conditions. For more information, contact: Communications Business Unit | American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery | 703.535.3762 | newsroom@entnet.org | www.entnet.org May 1-31 Better Sleep Month Each May, Better Sleep Month is dedicated to educating consumers about the importance of sleep to health and quality of life. For more information, contact: Karin Mahoney | Better Sleep Council | 703.683.8371 | kmahoney@sleepproducts.org | www.bettersleep.org May 1-31 Bike Month (National) For fifty-seven years, National Bike Month has been the perfect time for new or returning riders to get back on the saddle and ride their bikes to work. In 1956 the League of American Bicyclists designated May as National Bike Month to promote cycling, bicycling education, and bike events. Bike Month promotes bicycling as a smart and fun means of transportation and recreation. For more information, contact: Carolyn Szczepanski | League of American Bicyclists | 202.822.1333 | communications@bikeleague.org | www.bikeleague.org/bikemonth May 1-31 Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month (National) The Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM), partnering with the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, the American College of Chest Physicians, the American Thoracic Society, and the American Association for Respiratory Care recognizes the devoted professionals whose compassion and dedication to the care of the critically ill and injured have made a difference in the lives of patients and their families. Participants are encouraged to wear blue on the third Friday in May (May 17, 2013). For more information, contact: Melissa Nielsen | SCCM | 847 827.7405 | mnielsen@sccm.org | www.sccm.org May 1-31 Employee Health and Fitness Month (Global) Global Employee Health and Fitness Month is dedicated to encouraging employers from all sectors—public, private, and nonprofit—to promote fitness and encourage employees and their families to be physically active on a regular basis. For more information, contact: Philip Haberstro | National Association for Health and Fitness | 716.583.0521 | wellness@city-buffalo.org | www.physicalfitness.org May 1-31 Healthy Vision Month More than 20 million Americans suffer from severe vision loss. While not all eye diseases can be prevented, there are simple steps everyone can take to help their eyes remain healthy now and reduce their chances of vision loss in the future. Eye conditions, diseases, and injury can destroy your family’s healthy vision. Preventive eye care is important for everyone. For more information, contact: Communications Division | American Academy of Ophthalmology | 415.447.0258 | eyemd@aao.org | www.geteyesmart.org May 1-31 Hepatitis Awareness Month During Hepatitis Awareness Month, the Hepatitis Foundation International (HFI) provides information and materials and conducts “train the trainer” sessions for teachers, school and occupational nurses, other healthcare providers, and the public. The HFI promotes the prevention of hepatitis and substance abuse and encourages individuals to avoid liver-damaging activities and make healthful lifestyle behavior choices, including being vaccinated for hepatitis A and B. For more information, contact: Education Department | HFI | 800.891.0707 | info@hepatitisfoundation.org | www.hepatitisfoundation.org May 1-31 High Blood Pressure Education Month (National) High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems. The focus of this observance is to increase awareness about the prevention and treatment of this life-threatening condition. For more information, contact: Health Information Center | National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute | 301.592.8573 | nhlbiinfo@nhlbi.nih.gov | www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/index.htm#hbp May 1-31 Huntington's Disease Awareness Month The Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) celebrates May as Huntington’s Disease (HD) Awareness Month to raise greater awareness of HD and the valuable work HD scientists and clinicians do to fight all diseases, not just neurodegenerative and genetic afflictions. For more information, contact: Fred Taubman | HDSA | 212.242.1968 or 800.345.HDSA (800.345.4372) | ftaubman@hdsa.org | www.hdsa.org May 1-31 Liver Awareness Month Liver Awareness Month focuses attention on the need to maintain a healthy liver through a healthy lifestyle, the types and seriousness of liver disease and the urgency to be tested for liver disease if anyone has risk factors. For more information, contact: Communications Department | American Liver Foundation | 212.668.1000 | drohde@liverfoundation.org | www.liverfoundation.org May 1-31 Lupus Awareness Month Lupus Awareness Month serves as a nationwide call to action for the public to learn the early warning signs and consequences of this unpredictable and potentially fatal autoimmune disease. The goal is to increase awareness of lupus, especially among populations at highest risk of developing the disease—young women of childbearing age, African-Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, Asians, Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. World Lupus Day (May 10, 2013) provides a forum for the more than 100 international lupus organizations to call attention to the need for safer and more effective treatments for lupus. For more information, contact: Lupus Foundation of America | 202.349.1155 | info@lupus.org | www.lupus.org May 1-31 Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month The American Academy of Dermatology established Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month to raise awareness about skin cancer and to encourage Americans to practice sun-safe behaviors. For more information, contact: American Academy of Dermatology | www.spotskincancer.org May 1-31 Mental Health Month The goal of Mental Health Month is to educate the public about mental health conditions and the importance of mental health to overall health and wellness. For more information, contact: Steve Vetzner | Mental Health America | 703.797.2588 | svetzner@mentalhealthamerica.net | www.mentalhealthamerica.net May 1-31 Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month In 2010, a total of 4,502 motorcyclists died in traffic crashes. This month focuses on alerting motorists that motorcycle use increases significantly during warmer months and that motorists should be more cautious and aware of motorcyclists on the road. Additionally, motorcyclists are encouraged to ride responsibly during the riding season and wear full protective gear, including a DOT-compliant motorcycle helmet. For more information, contact: Michael Jordan | United States Department of Transportation l National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | 202.366.0521 | michael.jordan@dot.gov | www.nhtsa.gov May 1-31 Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month The Children’s Tumor Foundation recognizes May as Neurofibromatosis (NF) Awareness Month to raise awareness and educate the public about the disorder. Neurofibromatosis is more common than cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and Huntington’s Disease combined, yet is underrecognized by the public and underdiagnosed by the medical community. NF causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body and can lead to deafness, blindness, bone deformities, and certain forms of cancer. For more information, contact: Simon Vukelj | Children’s Tumor Foundation | 212.344.6633, ext. 7568 | svukelj@ctf.org | www.ctf.org May 1-31 Older Americans Month Celebrated across the country through ceremonies, events, fairs, and other activities, Older Americans Month is a time to acknowledge the many contributions of older persons. For more information, contact: Office of Outreach and Consumer Information | US Administration on Aging | 202.619.0724 | aoainfo@aoa.hhs.gov | www.aoa.gov/aoaroot/press_room/observances/oam/oam.aspx May 1-31 Oncology Nursing Month Cancer care is truly an art—one that requires many talents and skills. Oncology nurses are caregivers with clinical knowledge and technical expertise, but they’re also much more than that: They’re teachers, listeners, and someone to lean on. They help people through some of the most trying times of their lives. Now it’s time to celebrate the work oncology nurses do and the difference they make. For more information, contact: Customer Service | Oncology Nursing Society | 412.859.6100 | customer.service@ons.org | www.ons.org May 1-31 Osteoporosis Month (National) Each May, the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) celebrates National Osteoporosis Month. NOF has developed, through its National Bone Health Alliance (NBHA) public-private partnership, a campaign centered on secondary fracture prevention entitled 2Million2Many. This campaign aims for the public and healthcare professionals to take action and request a bone density test for anyone age 50 or older who suffer a bone break. The campaign features a traveling cast installation that represents the 5,500 bone breaks that occur every day. The 2Million2Many campaign and National Osteoporosis Month are opportunities to raise awareness of osteoporosis and bone health on grassroots and national levels. For more information, contact: NOF | 800.231.4222 | communications@nof.org | www.nof.org , www.nbha.org , or www.2million2many.org May 1-31 Physical Fitness and Sports Month (National) In 1983, President Ronald Reagan declared May National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. Each May since then, the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition encourages individuals and organizations to celebrate physical activity, fitness, sports participation, and healthy eating habits in honor of this national observance. For more information, contact: President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition | 240.276.9567 | fitness@hhs.gov | www.fitness.gov May 1-31 Stroke Awareness Month (National) In 1987, the National Stroke Association initiated and received a Presidential Proclamation to annually celebrate National Stroke Awareness Month in May. The goal of the annual campaign is to raise public awareness about the full continuum of stroke by managing stroke risk factors, better understanding stroke symptom recognition and response, and improving the quality of life during stroke recovery for millions of stroke survivors in the US. For more information, contact: Taryn Fort | National Stroke Association | 303.754.0919 | tfort@stroke.org | www.stroke.org May 1-31 Stroke Month (American) Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the US and a major cause of serious, long-term disability. Stroke doesn’t discriminate—it affects people of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds—however, African-Americans are at increased risk. American Stroke Month aims to heighten the public’s awareness of stroke warning signs and risk factors. For more information, contact: Communications Department | American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association | 888.4.STROKE (888.478.7653) | www.strokeassociation.org May 1-31 Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month (National) Observed each May by states and communities throughout the country, National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month seeks to involve communities in promoting and supporting effective teen pregnancy prevention initiatives. For more information, contact: Ebony Ross | Advocates for Youth | 202.419.3420 | ebony@advocatesforyouth.org | www.advocatesforyouth.org May 1-31 Trauma Awareness Month (National) Education and prevention are the goals of National Trauma Awareness Month. The American Trauma Society established May as National Trauma Awareness Month to educate the public and politicians on trauma: what it is, what causes it, how it must be treated, and how it can be prevented. For more information, contact: American Trauma Society | 800.556.7890 | info@amtrauma.org | www.amtrauma.org May 1-31 Ultraviolet Awareness Month Exposure to UV rays can burn delicate eye tissue and raise the risk of developing cataracts and cancers of the eye. Protecting your eyes from UV dangers and choosing the right sunglasses will be the topic of the month. For more information, contact: Prevent Blindness America | 800.331.2020 | info@preventblindness.org | www.preventblindness.org May 5-11 Children's Mental Heath Week The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health sponsors and observes the first full week in May as Children’s Mental Health Week For more information, contact: National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health | 240.403.1901 | ffcmh@ffcmh.org | www.ffcmh.org May 5-11 Occupational Safety and Health Week (North American) Each year during North American Occupational Safety and Health Week, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) and its 34,000 occupational safety, health, and environmental professional members work to increase awareness of the importance of being safe at work by sharing best practices; holding safety days; and connecting with city, state, and county officials as well as with schools and children. For more information, contact: Diane Hurns | ASSE | 847.768.3413 | dhurns@asse.org | www.asse.org/naosh May 5-11 Run A Mile Days (National) National Run A Mile Days is the American Running Association's (ARA) public outreach campaign to elementary and middle schools along with community groups and organizations throughout the US to increase the physical activity of youth by running the mile. It must start somewhere and the mile is the measure used by all track and running athletes. ARA seeks corporate sponsors and community volunteers to host and sponsor the campaign. The National Run A Mile Days campaign is tied to the historic date of the first sub-four-minute mile by Roger Bannister on May 4, 1954. For more information, contact: David Watt | American Running Association | 800.776.2732 | miler@americanrunning.org | www.runamile.org May 6 (tentative) Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day (National) National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) premier activity to raise awareness about the fact that positive mental health is essential to a child’s healthy development from birth. For more information, including the official date, contact: Caring for Every Child’s Mental Health Campaign Team | SAMHSA | www.samhsa.gov/children/ May 6 Melanoma Monday In 1995, the American Academy of Dermatology established the first Monday in May as Melanoma Monday to raise awareness about this potentially fatal type of skin cancer and to encourage Americans to practice sun-safe behaviors and examine their skin for suspicious moles and lesions. For more information, contact: American Academy of Dermatology | www.spotskincancer.org May 6-12 Nurses Week (National) National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6 (National Nurses Day) through May 12 (the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing). This event celebrates the critical work that nurses provide to improve healthcare delivery around the world. This week is a time for all of us to reflect on the contributions nurses make to patients, families, and communities. For more information, contact: Nancy Short | Society of Pediatric Nurses | 414.908.4950 | n.short@pedsnurses.org | www.pedsnurses.org May 8 Allergy and Asthma Day Capitol Hill Each year, the Allergy and Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics (AANMA) engages Congress in a conversation about issues affecting healthcare for families with allergies, asthma, and related conditions. Complimentary asthma and allergy screenings and consultations with board-certified allergists are encouraged on this day. For more information, contact: Marcela Gieminiani, Director of Programs and Administration | AANMA | 703.641.9595, ext. 1126 | mgieminiani@aanma.org | www.aanma.org May 8 School Nurse Day (National) Since 1972, National School Nurse Day has been set aside to recognize school nurses. Established to foster a better understanding of the role of school nurses in the educational setting, National School Nurse Day is celebrated on the Wednesday of National Nurses Week, which is always May 6-12. For more information, contact: Devin Dinkel | National Association of School Nurses | 240.821.1130 | nasn@nasn.org | www.nasn.org May 12 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Awareness Day (International) International CFS/CFIDS/ME Awareness Day is designed to increase understanding about chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Information on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment will be widely disseminated to the media, the public, healthcare professionals, and government officials. Fewer than 20 percent of Americans with this illness have been diagnosed, so efforts in 2013 will focus on spreading the word about the impact, severity, and prevalence. For more information, contact: Patient Alliance for Neuroendocrineimmune Disorders | 954.783.6771 | www.pandoranet.info May 12 Fibromyalgia Awareness Day (National) National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day is observed each May 12 with activities taking place worldwide in an effort to increase awareness of fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia Awareness Day seeks to help patients and organizations educate the general public, healthcare professionals, government officials, and legislative bodies. The National Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Association's (NFMCPA) annual Walk to CURE FM (Campaign for Understanding, Research and Education of Fibromyalgia) to commemorate Fibromyalgia Awareness Day is the rally cry for fibromyalgia patients and supporters to make their collective voice heard. For more information, contact: Jan Chambers | NFMCPA | info@fmcpaware.org | www.fmcpaware.org May 12-18 Alcohol and Other Drug-Related Birth Defects Week (National) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are the leading cause of preventable mental retardation and the most serious form of drug-related birth defects. National Alcohol and Other Drug-Related Birth Defects Week highlights the harmful effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on a fetus and the full range of FASD. For more information, contact: Robert Lindsey | National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. | 212.269.7797, ext. 19 | rlindsey@ncadd.org | www.ncadd.org May 12-18 Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week (National) To raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of anxiety and depressive illnesses and to assist individuals in finding help, Freedom From Fear partners with organizations around the nation to hold events during National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week. “Anxiety and depressive illnesses are serious public health concerns. They not only greatly impair the individuals who suffer with them, they impact the lives of their family and friends,” says Mary Guardino, executive director of Freedom From Fear. For more information, contact: Heather Lauria | Freedom From Fear | 718.351.1717, ext. 19 | help@freedomfromfear.org | www.freedomfromfear.org May 12-18 Food Allergy Awareness Week In 1997, the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) created Food Allergy Awareness Week to educate others about food allergies, potentially life-threatening medical conditions affecting 15 million Americans. For more information, contact: FAAN | 800.929.4040, ext. 111 | faaw@foodallergy.org | www.foodallergy.org May 12-18 Hospital Week (National) National Hospital Week (NHW) is a celebration of the history, technology, and dedicated professionals that make hospitals beacons of confidence and care. NHW has been celebrated since 1921, when a magazine editor suggested that more information about hospitals might alleviate public fears about the "shrouded" institutions of the day. For more information, contact: Brian Stevens | Texas Hospital Association | 512.465.1581 | bstevens@tha.org | www.nationalhospitalweek.com May 12-18 Neuroscience Nursing Week Presented by the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses (AANN) and the American Board of Neuroscience Nursing, Neuroscience Nurses Week honors the time, value, and commitment that neuroscience nurses across the country and around the world dedicate to patients and their families. For more information, contact: AANN | 888.557.2266 | info@aann.org | www.aann.org/nnw May 12-18 Nursing Home Week (National) Skilled nursing care, post-acute care centers, and other settings use National Nursing Home Week as a time to honor the residents and patients for contributions to the the community and recognize staff for their compassionate caring and dedication to caring for vulnerable populations. For more information, contact: Tom Burke | American Health Care Association | 202.898.2814 | tburke@ahca.org | www.nnhw.org May 12-18 Women's Health Week (National) National Women’s Health Week is a week-long health observance coordinated by the US Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health. It brings together communities, businesses, government, health organizations, and other groups in an effort to promote women’s health. National Women’s Health Week empowers women to make their health a priority. It also encourages them to take steps to improve their physical and mental health and lower their risks of certain diseases. For more information, visit: www.womenshealth.gov/whw May 13-19 Stuttering Awareness Week (National) National Stuttering Awareness Week is a special nationwide commitment to educate people about this complex disorder; to work toward the prevention of stuttering in children; to let people know that help is available; and to promote research into the causes of stuttering. For more information, contact: Joan Warner | The Stuttering Foundation | 800.992.9392 | info@stutteringhelp.org | www.stutteringhelp.org May 19-25 Emergency Medical Services Week (National) Since 1974, innovative EMS providers across the nation have used the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week Guide to educate the public about EMS, injury prevention, and what to do in an emergency. By providing this planning guide, we hope to assist you in educating the public about the continuum of care for patients in your community. For more information, contact: Debra Fly | American College of Emergency Physicians | 972.550.0911, ext. 3261 | dfly@acep.org | www.acep.org/emsweek May 19-25 Medical Transcriptionist Week (National) NMTW is observed the third week of May each year in recognition of the work medical transcriptionists perform as vital link between physician and patient in accurately and securely documenting patients' healthcare information. For more information, contact: AHDI Professional Practices | Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity | 800.982.2182 | ahdi@ahdionline.org | www.ahdionline.org May 25 Missing Children's Day (National) National Missing Children’s Day is designed to create awareness of the plight of missing, abducted, and runaway children through media outreach, including newspaper, radio, television, and school programs. On this date, many of these partners across the nation run awareness ads with photos of missing children and educational information provided by Child Find of America. For more information, contact: Mark Delluomo | Child Find of America | 845.883.6060 | information@childfindofamerica.org | www.childfindofamerica.org May 29 Senior Health and Fitness Day (National) National Senior Health and Fitness Day, now celebrating its 20th year, is the nation's largest older adult health and wellness event. More than 1,000 organizations will host local senior health events with more than 100,000 older adults participating nationwide on the same day. National Senior Health and Fitness Day is always held on the last Wednesday in May as part of Older Americans Month activities. Organizations that wish to participate must register in order to legally use the trademarked event name and logo. For more information, contact: Patricia Henze | Mature Market Resource Center |800.828.8225 | phenze@fitnessday.com | www.fitnessday.com ABOUT THE CALENDAR The 2013 Calendar of Health Observances & Recognition Days was developed by the Society for Healthcare Strategy & Market Development (SHSMD) of the American Hospital Association (AHA). It is intended to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. Dates, descriptions, and contact information have been provided by the sponsoring organizations. With the exception of National Hospital Week and the recognition events of the Personal Membership Groups of the AHA, the events listed are neither endorsed nor sponsored by SHSMD or AHA. © 2012 by the Society for Healthcare Strategy & Market Development of the American Hospital Association. This calendar and parts thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from SHSMD.
MONTH-LONG OBSERVANCES
Arthritis Awareness Month (National)
Arthritis Walk
Better Hearing and Speech Month
Better Sleep Month
Bike Month (National)
Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month (National)
Employee Health and Fitness Month (Global)
Healthy Vision Month
Hepatitis Awareness Month
High Blood Pressure Education Month (National)
Huntington's Disease Awareness Month
Liver Awareness Month
Lupus Awareness Month
Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month
Mental Health Month
Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month
Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month
Older Americans Month
Oncology Nursing Month
Osteoporosis Month (National)
Physical Fitness and Sports Month (National)
Stroke Awareness Month (National)
Stroke Month (American)
Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month (National)
Trauma Awareness Month (National)
Ultraviolet Awareness Month
WEEK-LONG OBSERVANCES
5-11 Children's Mental Heath Week
5-11 Occupational Safety and Health Week (North American)
5-11 Run A Mile Days (National)
6-12 Nurses Week (National)
12-18 Alcohol and Other Drug-Related Birth Defects Week (National)
12-18 Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week (National)
12-18 Food Allergy Awareness Week
12-18 Hospital Week (National)
12-18 Neuroscience Nursing Week
12-18 Nursing Home Week (National)
12-18 Women's Health Week (National)
13-19 Stuttering Awareness Week (National)
19-25 Emergency Medical Services Week (National)
19-25 Medical Transcriptionist Week (National)
RECOGNITION DAYS | EVENTS
6 (tentative) Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day (National)
6 Melanoma Monday
8 Allergy and Asthma Day Capitol Hill
8 School Nurse Day (National)
12 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Awareness Day (International)
12 Fibromyalgia Awareness Day (National)
25 Missing Children's Day (National)
29 Senior Health and Fitness Day (National)
May 1-31
Arthritis Awareness Month (National) National Arthritis Awareness Month was initiated by the Arthritis Foundation through a Presidential Proclamation in 1972. It aims to raise awareness and reduce the impact of arthritis, which strikes one in every five adults and 300,000 children. It is the leading cause of disability in the US. To conquer this painful, debilitating disease, the Arthritis Foundation supports education, research, advocacy, and other vital programs and services. For more information, contact: Public Relations | Arthritis Foundation | 404.965.7595 | help@arthritis.org | www.arthritis.org
Arthritis Walk The Arthritis Walk is the Arthritis Foundation’s signature event. It supports public awareness and raises funds to fight arthritis, the nation’s leading cause of disability. The Arthritis Walk is an annual event that generally takes place during the month of May in conjunction with National Arthritis Awareness Month. The Arthritis Foundation additionally launched Let’s Move Together, a nationwide movement that encourages people to move every day to prevent and treat arthritis. For more information, contact: Public Relations | Arthritis Foundation | 404.965.7595 | help@arthritis.org | www.arthritis.org
Better Hearing and Speech Month May is Better Hearing and Speech Month, dedicated to two essential communication tools that can be affected by medical conditions. For more information, contact: Communications Business Unit | American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery | 703.535.3762 | newsroom@entnet.org | www.entnet.org May 1-31
Better Sleep Month Each May, Better Sleep Month is dedicated to educating consumers about the importance of sleep to health and quality of life. For more information, contact: Karin Mahoney | Better Sleep Council | 703.683.8371 | kmahoney@sleepproducts.org | www.bettersleep.org
Bike Month (National) For fifty-seven years, National Bike Month has been the perfect time for new or returning riders to get back on the saddle and ride their bikes to work. In 1956 the League of American Bicyclists designated May as National Bike Month to promote cycling, bicycling education, and bike events. Bike Month promotes bicycling as a smart and fun means of transportation and recreation. For more information, contact: Carolyn Szczepanski | League of American Bicyclists | 202.822.1333 | communications@bikeleague.org | www.bikeleague.org/bikemonth
Critical Care Awareness and Recognition Month (National) The Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM), partnering with the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, the American College of Chest Physicians, the American Thoracic Society, and the American Association for Respiratory Care recognizes the devoted professionals whose compassion and dedication to the care of the critically ill and injured have made a difference in the lives of patients and their families. Participants are encouraged to wear blue on the third Friday in May (May 17, 2013). For more information, contact: Melissa Nielsen | SCCM | 847 827.7405 | mnielsen@sccm.org | www.sccm.org
Employee Health and Fitness Month (Global) Global Employee Health and Fitness Month is dedicated to encouraging employers from all sectors—public, private, and nonprofit—to promote fitness and encourage employees and their families to be physically active on a regular basis. For more information, contact: Philip Haberstro | National Association for Health and Fitness | 716.583.0521 | wellness@city-buffalo.org | www.physicalfitness.org
Healthy Vision Month More than 20 million Americans suffer from severe vision loss. While not all eye diseases can be prevented, there are simple steps everyone can take to help their eyes remain healthy now and reduce their chances of vision loss in the future. Eye conditions, diseases, and injury can destroy your family’s healthy vision. Preventive eye care is important for everyone. For more information, contact: Communications Division | American Academy of Ophthalmology | 415.447.0258 | eyemd@aao.org | www.geteyesmart.org
Hepatitis Awareness Month During Hepatitis Awareness Month, the Hepatitis Foundation International (HFI) provides information and materials and conducts “train the trainer” sessions for teachers, school and occupational nurses, other healthcare providers, and the public. The HFI promotes the prevention of hepatitis and substance abuse and encourages individuals to avoid liver-damaging activities and make healthful lifestyle behavior choices, including being vaccinated for hepatitis A and B. For more information, contact: Education Department | HFI | 800.891.0707 | info@hepatitisfoundation.org | www.hepatitisfoundation.org
High Blood Pressure Education Month (National) High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems. The focus of this observance is to increase awareness about the prevention and treatment of this life-threatening condition. For more information, contact: Health Information Center | National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute | 301.592.8573 | nhlbiinfo@nhlbi.nih.gov | www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/index.htm#hbp
Huntington's Disease Awareness Month The Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) celebrates May as Huntington’s Disease (HD) Awareness Month to raise greater awareness of HD and the valuable work HD scientists and clinicians do to fight all diseases, not just neurodegenerative and genetic afflictions. For more information, contact: Fred Taubman | HDSA | 212.242.1968 or 800.345.HDSA (800.345.4372) | ftaubman@hdsa.org | www.hdsa.org
Liver Awareness Month Liver Awareness Month focuses attention on the need to maintain a healthy liver through a healthy lifestyle, the types and seriousness of liver disease and the urgency to be tested for liver disease if anyone has risk factors. For more information, contact: Communications Department | American Liver Foundation | 212.668.1000 | drohde@liverfoundation.org | www.liverfoundation.org
Lupus Awareness Month Lupus Awareness Month serves as a nationwide call to action for the public to learn the early warning signs and consequences of this unpredictable and potentially fatal autoimmune disease. The goal is to increase awareness of lupus, especially among populations at highest risk of developing the disease—young women of childbearing age, African-Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, Asians, Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. World Lupus Day (May 10, 2013) provides a forum for the more than 100 international lupus organizations to call attention to the need for safer and more effective treatments for lupus. For more information, contact: Lupus Foundation of America | 202.349.1155 | info@lupus.org | www.lupus.org
Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month The American Academy of Dermatology established Melanoma / Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month to raise awareness about skin cancer and to encourage Americans to practice sun-safe behaviors. For more information, contact: American Academy of Dermatology | www.spotskincancer.org
Mental Health Month The goal of Mental Health Month is to educate the public about mental health conditions and the importance of mental health to overall health and wellness. For more information, contact: Steve Vetzner | Mental Health America | 703.797.2588 | svetzner@mentalhealthamerica.net | www.mentalhealthamerica.net
Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Month In 2010, a total of 4,502 motorcyclists died in traffic crashes. This month focuses on alerting motorists that motorcycle use increases significantly during warmer months and that motorists should be more cautious and aware of motorcyclists on the road. Additionally, motorcyclists are encouraged to ride responsibly during the riding season and wear full protective gear, including a DOT-compliant motorcycle helmet. For more information, contact: Michael Jordan | United States Department of Transportation l National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | 202.366.0521 | michael.jordan@dot.gov | www.nhtsa.gov
Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month The Children’s Tumor Foundation recognizes May as Neurofibromatosis (NF) Awareness Month to raise awareness and educate the public about the disorder. Neurofibromatosis is more common than cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and Huntington’s Disease combined, yet is underrecognized by the public and underdiagnosed by the medical community. NF causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body and can lead to deafness, blindness, bone deformities, and certain forms of cancer. For more information, contact: Simon Vukelj | Children’s Tumor Foundation | 212.344.6633, ext. 7568 | svukelj@ctf.org | www.ctf.org
Older Americans Month Celebrated across the country through ceremonies, events, fairs, and other activities, Older Americans Month is a time to acknowledge the many contributions of older persons. For more information, contact: Office of Outreach and Consumer Information | US Administration on Aging | 202.619.0724 | aoainfo@aoa.hhs.gov | www.aoa.gov/aoaroot/press_room/observances/oam/oam.aspx
Oncology Nursing Month Cancer care is truly an art—one that requires many talents and skills. Oncology nurses are caregivers with clinical knowledge and technical expertise, but they’re also much more than that: They’re teachers, listeners, and someone to lean on. They help people through some of the most trying times of their lives. Now it’s time to celebrate the work oncology nurses do and the difference they make. For more information, contact: Customer Service | Oncology Nursing Society | 412.859.6100 | customer.service@ons.org | www.ons.org
Osteoporosis Month (National) Each May, the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) celebrates National Osteoporosis Month. NOF has developed, through its National Bone Health Alliance (NBHA) public-private partnership, a campaign centered on secondary fracture prevention entitled 2Million2Many. This campaign aims for the public and healthcare professionals to take action and request a bone density test for anyone age 50 or older who suffer a bone break. The campaign features a traveling cast installation that represents the 5,500 bone breaks that occur every day. The 2Million2Many campaign and National Osteoporosis Month are opportunities to raise awareness of osteoporosis and bone health on grassroots and national levels. For more information, contact: NOF | 800.231.4222 | communications@nof.org | www.nof.org , www.nbha.org , or www.2million2many.org
Physical Fitness and Sports Month (National) In 1983, President Ronald Reagan declared May National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. Each May since then, the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition encourages individuals and organizations to celebrate physical activity, fitness, sports participation, and healthy eating habits in honor of this national observance. For more information, contact: President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition | 240.276.9567 | fitness@hhs.gov | www.fitness.gov
Stroke Awareness Month (National) In 1987, the National Stroke Association initiated and received a Presidential Proclamation to annually celebrate National Stroke Awareness Month in May. The goal of the annual campaign is to raise public awareness about the full continuum of stroke by managing stroke risk factors, better understanding stroke symptom recognition and response, and improving the quality of life during stroke recovery for millions of stroke survivors in the US. For more information, contact: Taryn Fort | National Stroke Association | 303.754.0919 | tfort@stroke.org | www.stroke.org
Stroke Month (American) Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the US and a major cause of serious, long-term disability. Stroke doesn’t discriminate—it affects people of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds—however, African-Americans are at increased risk. American Stroke Month aims to heighten the public’s awareness of stroke warning signs and risk factors. For more information, contact: Communications Department | American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association | 888.4.STROKE (888.478.7653) | www.strokeassociation.org
Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month (National) Observed each May by states and communities throughout the country, National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month seeks to involve communities in promoting and supporting effective teen pregnancy prevention initiatives. For more information, contact: Ebony Ross | Advocates for Youth | 202.419.3420 | ebony@advocatesforyouth.org | www.advocatesforyouth.org
Trauma Awareness Month (National) Education and prevention are the goals of National Trauma Awareness Month. The American Trauma Society established May as National Trauma Awareness Month to educate the public and politicians on trauma: what it is, what causes it, how it must be treated, and how it can be prevented. For more information, contact: American Trauma Society | 800.556.7890 | info@amtrauma.org | www.amtrauma.org
Ultraviolet Awareness Month Exposure to UV rays can burn delicate eye tissue and raise the risk of developing cataracts and cancers of the eye. Protecting your eyes from UV dangers and choosing the right sunglasses will be the topic of the month. For more information, contact: Prevent Blindness America | 800.331.2020 | info@preventblindness.org | www.preventblindness.org May 5-11
Children's Mental Heath Week The National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health sponsors and observes the first full week in May as Children’s Mental Health Week For more information, contact: National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health | 240.403.1901 | ffcmh@ffcmh.org | www.ffcmh.org
May 5-11
Occupational Safety and Health Week (North American) Each year during North American Occupational Safety and Health Week, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) and its 34,000 occupational safety, health, and environmental professional members work to increase awareness of the importance of being safe at work by sharing best practices; holding safety days; and connecting with city, state, and county officials as well as with schools and children. For more information, contact: Diane Hurns | ASSE | 847.768.3413 | dhurns@asse.org | www.asse.org/naosh
Run A Mile Days (National) National Run A Mile Days is the American Running Association's (ARA) public outreach campaign to elementary and middle schools along with community groups and organizations throughout the US to increase the physical activity of youth by running the mile. It must start somewhere and the mile is the measure used by all track and running athletes. ARA seeks corporate sponsors and community volunteers to host and sponsor the campaign. The National Run A Mile Days campaign is tied to the historic date of the first sub-four-minute mile by Roger Bannister on May 4, 1954. For more information, contact: David Watt | American Running Association | 800.776.2732 | miler@americanrunning.org | www.runamile.org
May 6 (tentative)
Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day (National) National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) premier activity to raise awareness about the fact that positive mental health is essential to a child’s healthy development from birth. For more information, including the official date, contact: Caring for Every Child’s Mental Health Campaign Team | SAMHSA | www.samhsa.gov/children/
May 6
Melanoma Monday In 1995, the American Academy of Dermatology established the first Monday in May as Melanoma Monday to raise awareness about this potentially fatal type of skin cancer and to encourage Americans to practice sun-safe behaviors and examine their skin for suspicious moles and lesions. For more information, contact: American Academy of Dermatology | www.spotskincancer.org
May 6-12
Nurses Week (National) National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6 (National Nurses Day) through May 12 (the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing). This event celebrates the critical work that nurses provide to improve healthcare delivery around the world. This week is a time for all of us to reflect on the contributions nurses make to patients, families, and communities. For more information, contact: Nancy Short | Society of Pediatric Nurses | 414.908.4950 | n.short@pedsnurses.org | www.pedsnurses.org
May 8
Allergy and Asthma Day Capitol Hill Each year, the Allergy and Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics (AANMA) engages Congress in a conversation about issues affecting healthcare for families with allergies, asthma, and related conditions. Complimentary asthma and allergy screenings and consultations with board-certified allergists are encouraged on this day. For more information, contact: Marcela Gieminiani, Director of Programs and Administration | AANMA | 703.641.9595, ext. 1126 | mgieminiani@aanma.org | www.aanma.org
School Nurse Day (National) Since 1972, National School Nurse Day has been set aside to recognize school nurses. Established to foster a better understanding of the role of school nurses in the educational setting, National School Nurse Day is celebrated on the Wednesday of National Nurses Week, which is always May 6-12. For more information, contact: Devin Dinkel | National Association of School Nurses | 240.821.1130 | nasn@nasn.org | www.nasn.org May 12
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Awareness Day (International) International CFS/CFIDS/ME Awareness Day is designed to increase understanding about chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Information on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment will be widely disseminated to the media, the public, healthcare professionals, and government officials. Fewer than 20 percent of Americans with this illness have been diagnosed, so efforts in 2013 will focus on spreading the word about the impact, severity, and prevalence. For more information, contact: Patient Alliance for Neuroendocrineimmune Disorders | 954.783.6771 | www.pandoranet.info
May 12
Fibromyalgia Awareness Day (National) National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day is observed each May 12 with activities taking place worldwide in an effort to increase awareness of fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia Awareness Day seeks to help patients and organizations educate the general public, healthcare professionals, government officials, and legislative bodies. The National Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Association's (NFMCPA) annual Walk to CURE FM (Campaign for Understanding, Research and Education of Fibromyalgia) to commemorate Fibromyalgia Awareness Day is the rally cry for fibromyalgia patients and supporters to make their collective voice heard. For more information, contact: Jan Chambers | NFMCPA | info@fmcpaware.org | www.fmcpaware.org
May 12-18
Alcohol and Other Drug-Related Birth Defects Week (National) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are the leading cause of preventable mental retardation and the most serious form of drug-related birth defects. National Alcohol and Other Drug-Related Birth Defects Week highlights the harmful effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on a fetus and the full range of FASD. For more information, contact: Robert Lindsey | National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. | 212.269.7797, ext. 19 | rlindsey@ncadd.org | www.ncadd.org
Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week (National) To raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of anxiety and depressive illnesses and to assist individuals in finding help, Freedom From Fear partners with organizations around the nation to hold events during National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week. “Anxiety and depressive illnesses are serious public health concerns. They not only greatly impair the individuals who suffer with them, they impact the lives of their family and friends,” says Mary Guardino, executive director of Freedom From Fear. For more information, contact: Heather Lauria | Freedom From Fear | 718.351.1717, ext. 19 | help@freedomfromfear.org | www.freedomfromfear.org
Food Allergy Awareness Week In 1997, the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) created Food Allergy Awareness Week to educate others about food allergies, potentially life-threatening medical conditions affecting 15 million Americans. For more information, contact: FAAN | 800.929.4040, ext. 111 | faaw@foodallergy.org | www.foodallergy.org
Hospital Week (National) National Hospital Week (NHW) is a celebration of the history, technology, and dedicated professionals that make hospitals beacons of confidence and care. NHW has been celebrated since 1921, when a magazine editor suggested that more information about hospitals might alleviate public fears about the "shrouded" institutions of the day. For more information, contact: Brian Stevens | Texas Hospital Association | 512.465.1581 | bstevens@tha.org | www.nationalhospitalweek.com
Neuroscience Nursing Week Presented by the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses (AANN) and the American Board of Neuroscience Nursing, Neuroscience Nurses Week honors the time, value, and commitment that neuroscience nurses across the country and around the world dedicate to patients and their families. For more information, contact: AANN | 888.557.2266 | info@aann.org | www.aann.org/nnw
Nursing Home Week (National) Skilled nursing care, post-acute care centers, and other settings use National Nursing Home Week as a time to honor the residents and patients for contributions to the the community and recognize staff for their compassionate caring and dedication to caring for vulnerable populations. For more information, contact: Tom Burke | American Health Care Association | 202.898.2814 | tburke@ahca.org | www.nnhw.org
Women's Health Week (National) National Women’s Health Week is a week-long health observance coordinated by the US Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health. It brings together communities, businesses, government, health organizations, and other groups in an effort to promote women’s health. National Women’s Health Week empowers women to make their health a priority. It also encourages them to take steps to improve their physical and mental health and lower their risks of certain diseases. For more information, visit: www.womenshealth.gov/whw
May 13-19
Stuttering Awareness Week (National) National Stuttering Awareness Week is a special nationwide commitment to educate people about this complex disorder; to work toward the prevention of stuttering in children; to let people know that help is available; and to promote research into the causes of stuttering. For more information, contact: Joan Warner | The Stuttering Foundation | 800.992.9392 | info@stutteringhelp.org | www.stutteringhelp.org
May 19-25
Emergency Medical Services Week (National) Since 1974, innovative EMS providers across the nation have used the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week Guide to educate the public about EMS, injury prevention, and what to do in an emergency. By providing this planning guide, we hope to assist you in educating the public about the continuum of care for patients in your community. For more information, contact: Debra Fly | American College of Emergency Physicians | 972.550.0911, ext. 3261 | dfly@acep.org | www.acep.org/emsweek
Medical Transcriptionist Week (National) NMTW is observed the third week of May each year in recognition of the work medical transcriptionists perform as vital link between physician and patient in accurately and securely documenting patients' healthcare information. For more information, contact: AHDI Professional Practices | Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity | 800.982.2182 | ahdi@ahdionline.org | www.ahdionline.org
May 25
Missing Children's Day (National) National Missing Children’s Day is designed to create awareness of the plight of missing, abducted, and runaway children through media outreach, including newspaper, radio, television, and school programs. On this date, many of these partners across the nation run awareness ads with photos of missing children and educational information provided by Child Find of America. For more information, contact: Mark Delluomo | Child Find of America | 845.883.6060 | information@childfindofamerica.org | www.childfindofamerica.org
May 29
Senior Health and Fitness Day (National) National Senior Health and Fitness Day, now celebrating its 20th year, is the nation's largest older adult health and wellness event. More than 1,000 organizations will host local senior health events with more than 100,000 older adults participating nationwide on the same day. National Senior Health and Fitness Day is always held on the last Wednesday in May as part of Older Americans Month activities. Organizations that wish to participate must register in order to legally use the trademarked event name and logo. For more information, contact: Patricia Henze | Mature Market Resource Center |800.828.8225 | phenze@fitnessday.com | www.fitnessday.com
ABOUT THE CALENDAR
The 2013 Calendar of Health Observances & Recognition Days was developed by the Society for Healthcare Strategy & Market Development (SHSMD) of the American Hospital Association (AHA). It is intended to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. Dates, descriptions, and contact information have been provided by the sponsoring organizations. With the exception of National Hospital Week and the recognition events of the Personal Membership Groups of the AHA, the events listed are neither endorsed nor sponsored by SHSMD or AHA. © 2012 by the Society for Healthcare Strategy & Market Development of the American Hospital Association. This calendar and parts thereof may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from SHSMD.