Memorial Day weekend traditionally kicks off the summer season for most Idaho families. We’ll be spending lots of time in the sun, and many of us won’t protect ourselves from its damaging rays. So, we’re here to tell you that Friday is National Don’t Fry Day, and it’s a good time to make a promise to yourself to be more responsible in the sun this summer. Sunburns add up. Every time you get a sunburn, your risk for skin cancer increases. Continue reading “Make every day “Don’t Fry Day” this summer: Protect yourself from the sun”
As the weather warms up, more of us are getting outdoors with our families and pets for fun and exercise. Unfortunately, the nicer weather also brings out ticks and mosquitoes. A bite from one of these not-so-delightful creatures can cause disease and have a serious impact on your health. It’s important to do everything you can to avoid getting bitten. 
Millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition, which is challenging enough. Add to that the stigma associated with mental illness, and it can cause people to avoid help and treatment. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Division of Behavioral Health will be hosting a program this Friday at the Idaho State Capitol featuring several Idahoans sharing their stories of recovery, so it’s a great time to talk about it and help put an end to the stigma about mental health issues. 
It has been estimated that more than 4 million Americans are living with chronic hepatitis. Many (some say more than half) don’t know they have the infectious disease. Without testing and treatment, they could develop liver damage, or worse. May is Hepatitis Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to learn about your risks of being infected by this disease, and to find out your status by getting tested. 
Contributed by Kathleen Palmer, Sexual Violence Prevention Health Program Manager, Idaho Division of Public Health.
DHW Voice 