The month of April has many observances related to health, health care and more. Here are some ideas for how you can celebrate:
National Donate Life Month
All month long, we celebrate those who have saved lives through the gift of organ, eye or tissue donation. Here is how a kidney transplant allowed Janine to live life without dialysis.
Oral Cancer Awareness Month
Have you wondered about red or white patches in your mouth or possibly about an oral blister or lip sore that won’t heal? These are potential oral cancer symptoms you shouldn’t ignore. If you’re at risk for oral cancer or you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, come to one of our free oral cancer screening events Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute is holding in April.
Parkinson’s Awareness Month
James Parkinson identified the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease more than 200 years ago. Since then, we’ve learned a lot about this life-changing disease, including the impact of exercise. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, people who have Parkinson’s disease and exercise for 2.5 hours per week experience a slowed decline in quality of life. For those looking for a way to get active, check out Rock Steady Boxing at LVHN, a science-backed, no-contact boxing program specifically created for people with Parkinson’s. Learn more here.
April 5: National Self-Care Day
Everyone practices “self-care” differently. However, there is one form of self-care that benefits us all – and that’s sleep. According to the National Institutes of Health, sleep is as important for our good health as diet and exercise. Get the scoop on the importance of shut-eye here.
April 8: Solar Eclipse
While it’s not a holiday, today a solar eclipse will be visible (weather permitting) across the U.S. A partial eclipse will be visible in the Allentown area beginning at 2:08 p.m. It will peak at 3:23 p.m. and conclude at 4:35 p.m. If you plan to observe the solar eclipse at any time during those 2 hours and 27 minutes, make sure to review these important safety tips.
April 18: National Exercise Day
Do you spend most of your day sitting down? If so, you’re not alone. A highly sedentary lifestyle is the norm for many people in the U.S., with people spending the majority of their working hours in a chair. The problem is spending too much time sitting down can wreak havoc on your health. However, research shows getting just 22 minutes of daily exercise can offset the health risks of too much sitting. Learn more here.
April 27: National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Check your medicine cabinets. Safely dispose of any unused or unwanted medications by bringing them to one of our secure drop boxes located at Lehigh Valley Hospital (LVH)–Cedar Crest, LVH–17th Street and LVH–Muhlenberg, or attending LVHN's prescription drug take back event. More details here.