FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- May 9-15 is National Women's Health Week, and post officials urge females to set aside time to take care of themselves to help prevent or ease medical problems.
Lyster Army Health Clinic Supervisory Nurse Alexa Yohn said the week raises awareness about women's medical issues and encourages women to focus on their physical, mental and spiritual health.
Women are particularly at risk to forego preventive screenings due to often spending a lot of time caring for others, according to Deb Crosby, LAHC Adult Medicine head nurse.
"We tend to put off preventive (medical care) until something is wrong," she said.
To help local women not procrastinate about their health care, LAHC staff hosts a Women's Health Fair May 14 from 8 a.m. to noon in Rm. V-130. During that time, staff schedule mammograms and pap smears, perform bone density tests, provide nutrition and fitness information and distribute give-a-ways.
"Take a morning for yourself. It's an upbeat atmosphere and a time for women to focus on themselves," Yohn said.
She offered other simple tips for women who don't take much time caring for themselves such as performing regular breast self-examinations and getting to know what's normal for their bodies.
Women can also use their lunch breaks at work or free time at home for short walks to increase fitness levels.
"Any kind of physical activity that increases heart rate or muscle (fitness is good)," Yohn said. "Set a goal that's attainable and set it for (yourself)."
Crosby noted small changes to diets, including increased water intake and decreased soda consumption, can also help improve physical well-being.
For more information about the health fair, call 255-7337. Yohn also suggests women visit <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/women/nwhw" target="_blank">www.cdc.gov/women/nwhw</a> to find out more about the awareness week.
Social Sharing