Every February, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children’s Dental Health Month to raise awareness of good dental health in children and how this affects them later in life. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums when people are young does have lasting benefits. For one thing, it leads to fewer and shorter visits (and probably less tears!) to the dentist. It also produces prettier smiles!
Even more important, good oral health prevents more serious illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and respiratory infections. When kids establish good habits early on, they’re more likely to avoid these and other poor health conditions as adults.
Currently, thousands of dedicated professionals, healthcare providers and educators lead the effort. This year the theme is “Brush and clean in between to build a healthy smile.” Through press releases and distribution of materials, the push is to promote good oral health to children, their caregivers and teachers across the country.
Getting the kids involved adds weight to the movement. To do this, fun activity sheets that include coloring and puzzles are available online. These sheets can be found at www.ada.org.
One thing scientists have learned after years of study is that cancer isn’t just one disease. While a lot more research needs to be done, scientists have made great strides. One area of focus is our immune systems. Another is genetics.
Previously overshadowed by more commonly known diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) has finally hit the spotlight. HPV is actually a group of over 200 related viruses. More than 40 of these are spread through direct sexual contact and cause genital warts. Even more concerning is how they can cause certain types of cancer – like cervical, vaginal, penile and anal. And that’s just the short list.
We can all agree that suicide is at an all-time high with our youth. Why is it happening and how do we as adults help?
As a pastor I have been called to homes immediately following death by suicide. What I witness is a loss felt deeper than any other loss can be felt. It is a loss than sends shock waves through the air of the surrounding community. A death by suicide does not only impact the person that has died it impacts everybody around them too. It changes so many lives forever.
