UNCASHD

Men’s Health Month: Prioritizing Your Well-Being

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man smiling making heart gesture

June is Men’s Health Month, an important time to emphasize how crucial it is for men to take action on their preventive healthcare. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a concerning disparity: women are 33% more likely to visit a doctor and significantly more likely to adhere to preventive screenings and checkups. According to a study by the Cleveland Clinic, only half (50 percent) of men surveyed said that they consider getting their annual check-ups a regular part of taking care of themselves. This month serves as an opportunity to bridge this gap and empower men to take a proactive approach to their health.

The Importance of Preventive Care

Regular medical checkups, even in the absence of concerning symptoms, are a cornerstone of proactive healthcare. These visits allow physicians to identify potential health risks early on when intervention can be most effective.

Key Health Screenings for Men

  • Prostate Cancer Screenings: Prostate cancer is a prevalent concern for men, particularly those over 50 or with a family history. Early detection through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal examinations is critical for successful treatment.
  • Colon Cancer Screenings: Colon cancer is another serious threat to men’s health. Routine screenings, such as colonoscopies, can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.
  • Other Considerations: Additional screenings, such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and blood sugar monitoring, are crucial for identifying potential risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Building a Foundation of Wellness

Beyond preventive screenings, establishing healthy lifestyle habits is essential for overall well-being.

  • Diet & Nutrition: Men are encouraged to focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources. Limiting intake of processed foods, saturated fats, and added sugars is key.
  • Physical Activity: Regular exercise is vital for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and improving overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.
  • Mental Health Awareness: Men are less likely to seek help for mental health concerns, despite the prevalence of issues like stress, anxiety, and depression. Open communication with a doctor or therapist is crucial to managing these challenges and maintaining emotional well-being.

Taking Charge of Your Health

Men’s Health Education & Awareness Month is a springboard for ongoing commitment to health. By prioritizing preventive healthcare, establishing healthy habits, and seeking support from healthcare professionals, men can optimize their physical and mental well-being. Remember, prioritizing your health is an investment in a longer, stronger, and more fulfilling life.

Learn more about the Uncas Health District Mobile Health Team

Food Service + Salon Relicensing Due June 30 — File Online Today!

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Register icon on keyboard button.

The Uncas Health District is excited to announce that we have transitioned to a paperless online licensing submission system, which will improve the convenience and accuracy of our annual food service and salon licensing process.

As an operator, it is your responsibility to create an account on www.myhealthdepartment.com/uhd; this is where you will then be able to fill out your application and submit supporting documents directly online.

Uncas Health District is now accepting electronic payments.  A link to pay the required fees online will be sent to valid email addresses. It is your responsibility to make sure we have a valid email address on file.

If you are unable to process payments online for any reason, you may visit our office or mail in payment.

All payments and completed paperwork MUST be received by June 30, 2024, or a late fee will be automatically assessed. 


Food Service Relicensing

Salon Relicensing

National Infant Immunization Week: Protecting Our Littlest Ones

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infant receiving vaccine

Every year in April, we celebrate National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW), a dedicated time to raise awareness about the importance of protecting infants and young children from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). This year, NIIW runs from April 22nd to 29th, 2024.

Why Vaccines Matter

Vaccines are one of the most successful and cost-effective public health tools we have. They work by exposing the body to a weakened or inactive form of a virus or bacteria, which helps the body develop immunity without getting a full-blown illness. This protects not only the vaccinated child but also those around them, creating a herd immunity effect that benefits the entire community.

Focus on Staying on Track with Vaccinations

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many aspects of our lives, including well-child visits and childhood vaccinations. This NIIW, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) want to emphasize the importance of getting your child back on track with their recommended vaccinations.

Getting Back on Schedule

If your child’s vaccinations have been delayed, don’t worry! It’s not too late to catch up. Talk to your doctor about creating a plan to get your child current on their immunizations. Remember, on-time vaccination is critical for protecting against potentially life-threatening diseases like whooping cough (pertussis) and measles.

Access Your Child’s Vaccination Records

Visit the State of Connecticut Immunization Program here.

The CT WiZ Public Portal allows individuals who were vaccinated in Connecticut to access their immunization records, while parents and guardians can also access their minor child’s records.  Check your and/or your child’s immunization record here.

Together, we can ensure that all children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. This NIIW, let’s recommit to staying on track with childhood immunizations.

Flu Update: Nearly 80 New Influenza Cases Reported Last Week (Jan. 20)

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78 new influenza cases have been identified in the 11 cities and towns of the Uncas Health District this flu season, according to January 20, 2024, data from the Connecticut Department of Health. This week’s reported numbers bring the flu season total to 347 cases in the district.

Those aged 18-49 years old represent the largest group for positive flu cases, comprising 117 of the 347 total cases reported.  5-17-year-olds and 50-64-year-olds each reported 70 cases, followed by 65+ (57 cases) and 0-4 (33 cases).

It is important to note that influenza cases are only reported if there is a hospitalization or if the positive test comes from a minor.

chart reporting 347 flu cases in the district this season

The colder months bring an increased risk of influenza, but getting vaccinated now can safeguard your health. The flu vaccine is essential for protecting individuals from potentially severe complications, especially for high-risk groups like:

  • People 65 and older
  • Individuals with chronic health conditions (heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, asthma)
  • Pregnant women
  • Children under 5
  • Those caring for or living with high-risk individuals

Flu vaccines are safe, effective, and proven to prevent millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and thousands of deaths annually.

If you haven’t already, prioritize getting vaccinated, especially if you fall into a high-risk group. It’s not too late to protect yourself and others from the flu’s impact.

Vaccination is a proactive step towards a healthier community. Choose prevention and navigate the winter with greater resilience. Let’s work together to minimize the flu’s impact this season.

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