All - Leep Calendar

Spiritual Literacy Month celebrates the common meeting point of all faiths: charity, tolerance, and belief. It's a month to explore faith and learn about the shared spirituality of humanity, annually in May.

Africa

May

Stroke Awareness Month, Ntl. (US): May

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Created in 1984, National Stroke Awareness Month occurs in May annually in the United States. Canada has its Stroke Awareness Month in June, and Australia devotes a week to this subject each September. The National Stroke Association sponsors the month. Their website includes dozens of resources to explore to increase public awareness of lifesaving stroke information and provide the stroke community with a role in raising awareness. More than seven million people in the United States today have survived a stroke. Stroke affects physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning, but take steps to reduce the impact of post-stroke effects. Each patient’s stroke experience is different and depends on the type of stroke and which areas of the brain are damaged. Effects can be experienced at varying degrees at any phase of recovery. Understanding the nature of the impact of stroke and what can be done about them is the first step to recovery. To view an interactive presentation on strokes, please see http://www.stroke.org/site/PageServer?pagename=EFFECT.

Africa

May

Stroke, Strike Out Stroke Month: May

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The Pharmacists Planning Services hosts Global Strike Out Strokes Month annually in May to promote early stroke detection and a healthy lifestyle.

Africa

May

Tavern Month, Ntl.: May

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National Tavern Month has been observed every year since 1953. It is a celebration of the many licensed bars and taverns that provide hundreds of thousands of jobs to hardworking men and women and enrich America’s social culture. Several organizations support this awareness campaign, including the American Beverage Licensees, the National Beer Wholesalers Association, and thousands of state and local bar and tavern associations nationwide.

Africa

May

Teen Self-Esteem Month, Ntl.: May

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National Teen Self-Esteem Month is devoted to tackling self-esteem issues common to teens. The awareness month works to counter the negative effects society and the entertainment industry has on today's youth by: 1) Providing tools to build self-esteem; 2) Connecting teens to resources; 3) Increasing a teen's ability to make positive entertainment choices.

Africa

May

Thyroid Awareness Month (AU): May

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Thyroid Awareness Month is supported yearly by the Australian Thyroid Foundation (ATF) to focus on thyroid health. According to the Australian Thyroid Foundation: "The Thyroid Gland is a small bow-shaped gland, located in the front of the neck, below the voice box or larynx (Adam's Apple) on either side of the trachea (windpipe). The thyroid gland produces hormones that give energy to the body's functions and controls the body's metabolism. When the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, the consequences cause the body to slow down. When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, the body speeds, and neither of these reactions is desirable. According to Beverley Garside- ATF CEO, thyroid health is vital to how people function and their body functions. Thyroid Diseases can affect Australians from the very young to the elderly, with women affected more than men. When the thyroid gland is out of balance or diseased, everything from mental health to fertility, weight gain or weight loss, and many other symptoms can be included.

Africa

May

Tooth, Save Your Tooth Month: May

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Whenever possible, you should always consider treatments to save your teeth. You may think, why not have a tooth pulled, especially if no one can see it? But you will know your tooth is missing and will negatively impact your quality of life and self-confidence. Save your tooth month highlights options instead of having a tooth or your teeth pulled. Endodontic treatments work to save your teeth. If you're facing a root canal, extraction, or broken tooth, consider all your options first. Natural teeth, your teeth, are always the best. This event first ran in 2019 and replaced Root Canal Awareness Week.

Africa

May

Toxic Encephalopathy & Chemical Injury Awareness Month, Ntl.: May

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National Toxic Encephalopathy & Chemical Injury Awareness Month is promoted by the National Toxic Encephalopathy Foundation to raise awareness of the dangers of exposure to natural and manmade toxic substances (neurotoxins). Toxins can include air freshness, perfumes, smoke, dust, cleaning products, and even wifi and electromagnetic currents. This month is about raising awareness so people can live and work in the healthiest environments.

Africa

May

Trade Month, World: May

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National World Trade Week is the whole third week of May in the United States. First proclaimed by President Roosevelt in 1935 to promote international trade with the United States. During this week, all businesses and merchants are encouraged to participate in events, trade shows, educational programs, etc., to celebrate the benefits that the US can have from the global economy.

Africa

May

Tuberous Sclerosis Awareness Month: May

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The Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance promotes Tuberous Sclerosis Awareness Month. TSC is a genetic disorder that causes tumors in various organs, primarily the brain, eyes, heart, kidneys, skin, and lungs, and it’s the leading genetic cause of epilepsy and autism. This month is dedicated to finding a cure for tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), raising awareness of the condition and what the people suffering from it go through, and providing the tools and resources to improve their lives.

Africa

May

Ultraviolet (U.V.) Awareness Month: May

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Prevent Blindness America, the nation’s oldest volunteer eye health and safety organization, has declared May UV Awareness Month to help educate the public on the dangers of UV and how to protect the eyes. For example, in addition to the skin, the eyes can become “sunburned,” known as photokeratitis. The painful condition may result in temporary vision loss for a few days. Pterygium, a growth of tissue that forms on the white of the eye, correlates directly to an individual’s UV exposure. Without treatment, this condition may require surgical treatment. Alarmingly, a recent survey conducted by N3L Optics found that more than 40 percent of runners and 35 percent of water sports participants do not consistently wear sunglasses during those activities. Only 50 percent of men and 33 percent of women prioritize having the right sunglasses for their sport. Reflective surfaces like snow, water, sand, and asphalt can significantly increase the amount of UV radiation the body is exposed to. Unfortunately, UV damage is cumulative and has been linked to eye problems later in life, including tumors, cataracts, and macular degeneration, an eye disease that currently has no cure. The delicate skin around the eye and the eyelids are also susceptible to UV damage. According to the Office of Air and Radiation at the Environmental Protection Agency, basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer affecting eyelids. It may appear on the lower lid, in the corners of the eye, and under the eyebrows. PBA offers these tips on how to keep your future bright with protection from UV: Always wear sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays. Sunglasses without UV protection may shade the eyes but cause pupils to dilate, allowing in even more harmful rays. Sunglasses that block 100 percent UV-A and UV-B rays should always be worn with a brimmed hat. Wrap-around sunglasses are best as they protect the eyes and the skin around the eyes. Although some contact lenses may offer UV protection, they cannot protect the entire eye and the skin around it. Sunglasses should be made of unbreakable polycarbonate for active lifestyles, especially for children. Ask your doctor about prescription medication that may cause increased sensitivity to light. Always wear eye protection when using a tanning bed. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, tanning beds can produce UV levels up to 100 times more than the sun, which can cause severe damage to the external and internal structures of the eye and eyelids. “We want to stress the importance of protecting the eyes from UV rays, especially to young people,” said Hugh R. Parry, president, and CEO of Prevent Blindness America. “Although we may not notice any ill effects of UV exposure today, it can greatly impact our ability to see clearly in the future.” For more information on the dangers of UV exposure and how to choose the best sunglasses for adults and children, please visit Prevent Blindness America’s dedicated website at preventblindness.org/protect-your-eyes-sun or call (800) 331-2020.

Africa

May

Urgent Care Awareness Month, Ntl.: May

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National Urgent Care Awareness Month in May celebrates urgent care clinicians and professionals' exceptional contributions and brings awareness to our vital industry.

Africa

May

Vinegar Month: May

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Vinegar Month celebrates the versatile tangy liquid derived from fermented fruits, vegetables, and starches that have been around for over 10,000 years. Vinegar is often used to control blood sugar levels and ease the symptoms of diabetes, as well as assist with weight loss. It is believed to help reduce cholesterol and mitigate several factors linked to a risk of heart disease. It is a natural food preservative. Vinegar is also used in cleaning both the home and wounds. Its acidity naturally kills pathogens, effectively obliterates bacteria, treats nail fungus, warts, and ear infections, and kills lice. The most common types of vinegar are balsamic, cider, malt red wine, rice, white wine, wine, and seasoned.

Africa

May

Vision Health Month (CA): May

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Vision Health Month is Canada's annual awareness campaign that educates Canadians about their vision health and helps eliminate avoidable sight loss nationwide. The most important thing Canadians can do to save sight is to get an annual optometry examination. A staggering one in seven Canadians will be diagnosed with an eye disease in their lifetime, and a comprehensive exam is the best way to prevent damage that cannot be reversed. "The earlier an eye disease is detected, the greater the chance of preventing or minimizing associated vision loss through treatment," says Dr. Lil Linton, president of the Canadian Association of Optometrists and a spokesperson for Doctors of Optometry Canada. "That's why it's so critical to get your eyes examined regularly. By the time you notice a problem, it could be too late to save your sight." The CNIB recommends the following schedule for eye exams: Infants should have their first eye exam between six and nine months of age. Children should undergo at least one eye examination between the ages of two and five and then yearly once they enter school. Adults between 19 and 64 should have an eye exam every two years. Seniors should have an eye exam annually.

Africa

May

Vision, Healthy Vision Month: May

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May is Healthy Vision Month. Studies show there is a gender gap in eye disease. Women are more likely than men to suffer from sight-threatening conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and glaucoma. In support of Healthy Vision Month in May, the American Academy of Ophthalmology reminds women to prioritize vision. Women comprise 65 percent of AMD cases, 61 percent of glaucoma and cataract cases, and 66 percent of blind patients. Why the inequity? There are a few theories. On average, women live longer; many eye problems are age-related. Some eye conditions, such as dry eye, are more common in women, young and old. Social and economic factors affect women's access to eye care, especially in developing countries. Whatever the cause, there are a few unique vision problems women need to watch out for more than men. Dry eye occurs at double the rate in postmenopausal women. Women are generally more susceptible to autoimmune diseases than men, many of which affect vision, such as lupus and Sjögren's syndrome. Pregnancy can cause vision changes due to hormone fluctuations. The good news is most vision loss is preventable. The Academy offers five simple steps to take control of your eye health today: 1. Get a comprehensive medical eye exam at age 40. Early signs of disease or changes in vision may begin at this age. An exam by an ophthalmologist is an opportunity to carefully examine the eye for diseases and conditions that may have no symptoms in the early stages. More than 5,500 dedicated volunteer ophthalmologists provide eye exams and care, often at no out-of-pocket cost to eligible patients. Learn if you qualify at eyecareamerica.org. 2. Know your family history. Certain eye diseases can be inherited. If you have a close relative with macular degeneration, you have a 50 percent chance of developing this condition. A family history of glaucoma increases your risk by four to nine times. Talk to family members about their eye conditions. It can help you and your ophthalmologist evaluate your risk. 3. Eat healthy foods. A diet low in fat and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, benefits the entire body, including the eyes. Eye-healthy food choices include citrus fruits, vegetable oils, nuts, whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables, and cold water fish. 4. Stop smoking. Smoking increases the risk of eye diseases such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Smoking raises the risk of cardiovascular illnesses, which can indirectly influence your eye health. Tobacco smoke, including second-hand smoke, also worsens dry eye. 5. Wear sunglasses. Exposure to ultraviolet UV light raises the risk of eye diseases, including cataracts, fleshy growths on the eye, and cancer. Always wear sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection and a hat while enjoying time outdoors. "Eye exams aren't only about checking a person's visual acuity or sharpness, but also determining the overall health of their eyes," said Rebecca J. Taylor, M.D., clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. "We encourage women as well as men to get regular eye care. By making vision a priority today, we can help protect our sight as we age."

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