National social work month is here and we at Windsor Estates want to say thank you to all who give their heart, soul, and time to make positive and impactful changes to the lives of many individuals, families, and entire communities. Let’s honor and celebrate all social workers for their important contributions. Every day about 68,2000 social workers across the nation work ardently acting as advocates to enhance the well-being of others. Let’s say thank you to the bravery and care for the courage and dedication they continue to possess during covid times.

Heart disease is the number one killer in Americans. About one in three women are diagnosed with heart disease. Every February, we celebrate American Heart Month to raise awareness about cardiovascular health, and educate others on heart disease and stroke prevention. Prevention is not impossible, you can start by increasing your physical activity and choosing healthier versions of your favorite recipes. Small changes can make a big difference.

Phlebotomist recognition week celebrates phlebotomists’ vital role in maintaining patient health and promoting lab efficiency and effectiveness. They don’t just draw blood, they keep patients calm, ensure specimens are of the best quality. We appreciate the perseverance and skill of these important health care workers!

Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week is observed each year during February 7–14 to promote awareness and education about congenital heart defects. It affects approximately one in one hundred births every year in the United States. It is the word’s most common birth defect. Take this week to raise awareness of congenital heart defects.

World Cancer Day encourages everyone to unite to fight against cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, in the world, one in six people die from cancer. That is 17 deaths per minute worldwide. By raising awareness, and educating other, World Cancer Day aims to save millions of deaths every year.

In many parts of the United States, January contains short days, and harsh air. Though it may be difficult, keeping active year round is one of the most important ways to reduce one’s risk of cancer and other health issues. National Healthy Weight Week is celebrated on the third week of January and encourages Americans to reinforce healthy eating as a way of life instead of dieting to lose weight. It also encourages movement and physical activity, contrary to the sedentary winter months.

More than 13,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer each year. January is a month with a special focus as chapters celebrate Cervical Health Awareness Month and work to spread the word in their communities. Luckily, the disease is preventable with vaccination and appropriate screening.

The thyroid is a small gland found in the middle of the lower neck. The hormones it produces helps control your body temperature and heart rate, and help regulate the production of protein. January is Thyroid Awareness Month. Up to 20 million Americans have a thyroid condition. The thyroid can be either over-active or under-active. An overactive thyroid is called hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid overproduces the thyroid hormone, T4. It can cause jitters, difficulty sleeping and unexplained weight loss. When a thyroid is under-active the body doesn’t produce enough of thyroid hormones and can result in slowing down the body’s functions. This is called hypothyroidism and the more common than hyperthyroidism. The good news about thyroid conditions is that they’re treatable. Once diagnosed and treated, it’s entirely possible to live a normal, healthy life.

About 36,000 units of red blood cells and 7,000 units of platelets are needed every single day in the U.S. Blood donations typically drop off during and immediately after the winter holidays, which makes National Blood Donor Month in January a critical time. Donating blood saves many lives and improves health for many people. According to the World Health Organization, “blood is the most precious gift that anyone can give to another person — the gift of life. A decision to donate your blood can save a life, or even several if your blood is separated into its components — red cells, platelets, and plasma.”