Macon Times

Atrium Health Navicent issued the following announcement on May 10. 

The community is invited to join Atrium Health Navicent in recognizing May 8-14 as National Women’s Health Week. Beginning on Mother’s Day each year, this week serves as a reminder for women to take care of themselves and to make their health a priority.

National Women’s Health Week is a week-long health observance led by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health, and this year’s theme is “Forward Focus: Achieving Healthier Futures Together.”

Prioritizing your physical and mental health has never been more important. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many women put off taking care of their general health and wellness needs. They also adjusted their daily routines, including the way they connect with family and friends. The combination has led to serious health problems for some women.

During National Women’s Health Week, doctors at Atrium Health Navicent are encouraging women and girls to reflect on their individual health needs and take steps to improve their overall health. Whether you continue current activities or find new ones, now is a great time for all women and girls to focus on better health, especially those with underlying health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. This is also a great time for family, friends and the community to take actions to support women and help them achieve the best health possible.

“Women's Health Week is more important now than ever as we realize the general health and wellness needs of this unprecedented time,” said Dr. Vincent Fang, an OB-GYN practicing at Atrium Health Navicent Women’s Care OB/GYN. “I encourage every woman to recognize that your health is the greatest investment you can make in yourself. National Women's Health Week should be a reminder to all women to take a break and align their mental, social, and physical wellbeing. Schedule that checkup, exercise and watch your diet. Women fill so many needs for their families, their careers and their community. Investment into your own health now will increase your involvement for future generations to come.”

Women can improve or maintain their physical and mental health by:

• Getting back on track with regularly scheduled well-woman visits (check-ups) and preventative screenings.

• Continuing to protect yourself against COVID-19 through vaccinations and booster shots.

• Being active. Take a walk, dance to your favorite music or begin a new exercise program.

• Maintaining a healthy weight through healthy eating choices, which may include swapping water for a sugary drink or trying a new recipe.

• Paying attention to mental health, which may include getting enough sleep, managing stress and practicing self care.

• Avoiding unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, texting while driving and not wearing a seatbelt or bicycle helmet.

• Seeking help if you are experiencing domestic violence, or offer support to a friend or family member who may be in an abusive relationship.

To find a doctor, visit www.NavicentHealth.org and click “Find A Doctor.”

Original source can be found here.