The month of October has many observances related to health, healthcare, and more. Here is a brief list of events and helpful information to keep you in the know.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosis in the United States, but early detection can make a big difference. Screenings can help detect the condition in its earliest, most treatable stages. Read on for prevention and screening tips, and find out if you should be getting screened for breast cancer.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to come together as a community to support survivors and put an end to abuse. If you know someone in need of assistance, our list of resources for families can connect you with local organizations that can help.
Liver Cancer Awareness Month
Patients with liver cancer often present complex clinical challenges that require a highly individualized treatment approach. We offer the collaborative care model patients need to have the best shot of beating liver cancer. Learn more here.
National Dental Hygiene Month
Practicing good dental hygiene — which includes brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, flossing regularly, and getting routine dental checkups and cleanings — can help prevent problems that affect more than just your smile. Unfortunately, some kids don’t have access to the dental care they need. But Lehigh Valley Reilly Children’s Hospital is on a mission to change this by hitting the road with its mobile van “Miles of Smiles,” which brings dental services right to children by visiting the schools they attend. Learn more here.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, sudden unexpected infant death, which includes SIDS, is the leading cause of injury death in infancy. Following safe sleep recommendations can prevent many fatalities. Follow these must-know sleep guidelines to keep your baby safe throughout the first year of their life.
Oct. 4-10: Mental Illness Awareness Week
Mental health affects all of us. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five adults in the U.S. experiences a mental health condition each year — but the impact extends to the people who support them. Learn more about how to access our mental health services.
Oct. 4-10: National Primary Care Week
Did you know that your clinician can manage most of your medical and healthcare needs? And as your advocate, your clinician can identify when you may need specialty or surgical care and help guide you through next steps. Need help finding a clinician? Start here.
Oct. 16: National Mammography Day
While you may know that mammograms are the most effective screening tool for detecting breast cancer, you may not realize how often you should get one or what you should consider before and during your appointment. Here are the do’s and don’ts you need to know about this lifesaving screening test.
Oct. 24: National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Properly discarding unused medications is the best way to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. Keep an eye out for area police departments that are holding drug take back events. Visit the Drug Enforcement Agency's website to search by ZIP code.
If you are unable to attend drug drop-off events, you may drop off medication at secure drop boxes at any time. Drop boxes can be found in LVHN hospital locations in Lehigh County.
Locations:
Lehigh Valley Hospital–Cedar Crest
1200 S. Cedar Crest Blvd.
Allentown, Pa.
Outside the pharmacy
Lehigh Valley Hospital–17th Street
1627 W. Chew St.
Allentown, Pa.
Main entrance, near the gift shop
Lehigh Valley Hospital–Muhlenberg
2545 Schoenersville Road
Bethlehem, Pa.
Outside the pharmacy
Items accepted at drop boxes include: prescription and over-the-counter medications, samples, vitamins, prescription ointments and patches, and pet medications.
Items not accepted include: syringes, needles, sharps or other sharp objects, medications from businesses and clinics, lotions, liquids, aerosol cans, inhalers, hydrogen peroxide, and thermometers.
