National Self-Check Month

National Self-Check Month

National Self-Check Month is observed in February of each year. This observance, National Self-Check Month, serves is a reminder that every day of the year we can take charge of our health. This increases our odds of avoiding chronic disease and other often preventable conditions. The color representing National Self-Check Month is orange. Wear an orange awareness pin, orange fabric ribbon, or orange silicone wristband bracelet.

We all have our reasons for avoiding a checkup at the doctor. We’re too busy, or we don’t want to know the truth. National Self-Check Month brings to people’s attention that it is important for a variety of reasons to go. For example, one is early detection. It is important to go for an annual checkup or to do regular self-checks. There are many preventative resources and tools to guide us through healthcare related fears and concerns.

It is recommended to check yourself for different health ailments on a regular basis. And now is a good time to remind everyone of the importance of self-checking. You can increase your odds of avoiding certain diseases or conditions with regular self-checks. This is especially true if you try to avoid regular checkups with your physician. Sometimes we may be proactive, but our loved ones are not being proactive, as well. National Self-Check Month provides an opportunity for you to sit down with a loved one to share your concerns. In addition, you can offer ways to better their health and help them.

How to Observe

Everyone should go for a check-up at least once a year.

There are also ways to check yourself for potential illnesses like heart disease or certain cancers. These types of self-checks can help with early detection. The earlier a problem is noticed, the earlier you can start treatment. You can ask your doctor for the best methods of checking yourself for things like lumps or other abnormalities. There are also a handful of websites on the internet that have great information. These resources can teach you how to self-check.

One example is self-checks for breast cancer. Breast self-exams, or regularly examining your breasts on your own, can be an important way to find breast cancer early. This is when it’s more likely to be successfully treated. Although no single test can detect all breast cancers early, many people report that performing a breast self-exam in combination with other screening methods can increase the odds of early detection. This information is provided by Breastcancer.org.

Prevention Tips During National Self-Check Month

The best preventative measure to avoid major health concerns is to practice healthy habits. Eating healthy, getting daily exercise, avoiding bad habits like smoking and excessive drinking are all ways to keep your body working at its best.

During National Self-Check Month, it is a good time to evaluate some of your lifestyle choices. As well, it’s a good time to determine if they may be increasing any risks to your health. It isn’t always easy to make changes, but as we age the better decisions we make, the better chance we have to prevent unwanted health issues.

This National Self-Check Month, take some time to think about your health and learn the best ways to take care of yourself. Do it for you, your family, your friends, and everyone who loves you. Aging can be challenging. However, if you take care of yourself properly, you may be able to avoid any extra tension or worry.

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