National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) is an annual observance held in August to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages.  Because there is a large population of people who continue to opt out of getting the vaccinations for COVID-19 and the Delta variant, this observance and education is vital. 
 
There are any number of reasons for people to resist getting their children vaccinated for childhood diseases such as polio, whooping cough and smallpox, but history proves that these diseases were eradicated due to vaccinations.  As your children head back to school this fall, it’s particularly important for you to work with your child’s doctor or nurse to make sure they get caught up on missed well-child visits and recommended vaccines.
 
Remember to take care of yourself too! Make sure to receive any vaccines you need to stay healthy. Use CDC’s adult vaccine assessment tool to see which vaccines might be right for you.
 
August is also a critical time for those who are eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19. With the Delta variant, this is more urgent than ever. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccination, check out the following websites:

• cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/your-vaccination.html
• cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/recommendations/adolescents.html

 
We urge anyone who is still reluctant to get vaccinated to research, educate yourself and pray about getting the vaccination.  2 Timothy 1:7 tells us that God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power and of love and of sound mind.
 
Resource:
National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM) | CDC
 

 
 
With temperatures on the rise and pandemic-related restrictions lifting, many are anxious to return to a state of normalcy.  According to the CDC, the COVID-19 vaccines appear to be effective at preventing COVID-19 disease and reducing the risks of people spreading the disease.  People who have been fully vaccinated can resume activities that they had stopped because of the pandemic.  Keep in mind that if you have a chronic medical condition or are taking medications that weaken your immune system, you may not be fully protected even if you are fully vaccinated.  For those with chronic medical conditions, you may need to continue taking all precautions – wearing masks in public and social distancing, even after vaccination.
 
For now, although the risk that fully vaccinated people could become infected with COVID-19 is low, fully vaccinated people should continue to:

• Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
• Follow CDC and health department travel requirements and recommendations.

 
The CDC cannot provide the specific risk level for every activity in every community.  It is important to consider your own personal situation and the risk to you, your family, and your community before venturing out.
 
This summer let us also attempt to increase our physical activity level – moving more and sitting less, eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, and staying well hydrated – making water our primary beverage.   
 
   
Reference:
Content source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD), Division of Viral Diseases
 

 
 
The first Sunday in June is recognized as National Cancer Survivors Day.  A day to celebrate life for everyone who has been touched by cancer.  It is a day to raise awareness of the ongoing challenges cancer survivors and their families face because of their disease.   Mt. Zion celebrates all cancer survivors on this day and every day!  May God bless and keep you.

 
April is designated as National Stress Awareness Month.
  
Stress management is vital to our overall health, so it’s important to learn and practice successful ways to cope with stress. 
 
How do I know if I have too much stress?
 
If you have too much stress in your life, your body will let you know.  Stress may be experienced in different ways.  Some things you may notice include:
 
Difficulty concentrating

• Feelings of worry and fear
• Muscle tension
• Sweaty palms
• Heart pounding
• Irritability toward others
• Fatigue

 
If you are overly stressed for a long period of time, it can put your health at risk.  A list of encouraging ways to respond to the stress in your life and keep your stress levels in check include:
 
Prayer and meditation

• Therapeutic massage and aromatherapy
• Affirm what is right with your life instead of dwelling on what’s wrong
• Exercise.  Aim to do at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week.  When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins which trigger a positive feeling in the body!
• Get proper rest, eat a well-balanced diet and get regular health checks with your primary care provider.

Remember that life often presents us with stressful situations and it is easy to allow ourselves to fall into fear, worry and anxiety, but thanks be to God!  He is our source of peace, hope, strength, courage, and joy amidst all trials and tribulation.  Pray, and trust in Him to supply all of our needs and calm our anxious hearts with his Spirit of peace, joy, hope and love!
    
*Source: Beliefnet
 

 

March is National Kidney Month

Most people with kidney disease don’t know they have it. March is National Kidney Month and we are encouraging everyone to learn more about their kidney health.

More than 37 million Americans have chronic kidney disease – that’s about one in seven adults. The disease is underdiagnosed since a person may lose up to 90 percent of their kidney function before symptoms develop.

The biggest risk factors for kidney disease are diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and family history of kidney failure. Early identification and treatment may help to slow kidney damage and prevent additional health problems.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has provided these healthy lifestyle tips to take charge of kidney health:

• Meet regularly with your health care team. 
• Manage blood pressure and monitor blood glucose levels. 
• Take medicine as prescribed and avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen. Your pharmacist and doctor need to know about all the medicines you take.
• Aim for a healthy weight. 
• Reduce stress and make physical activity part of your routine. Consider healthy stress-reducing activities and get at least 30 minutes or more of physical activity each day.
• Make time for sleep. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night.
• Quit smoking. If you smoke, take steps to quit.

 

Image: americanhw.com

February is Heart Health Awareness Month.  Heart disease is the leading killer for both men and women in the United States.  According to the CDC, deaths from heart disease are higher in Black Americans than in White Americans and other ethnic groups.  Heart disease also develops at a younger age in Black Americans. 
 
4 Ways to Take Control of Your Heart Health

• Do not smoke. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States.
• Manage health conditions. Work with your health care team to manage conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
• Make heart-healthy diet changes.  Eat foods low in fat, low in added sugar, and low in salt.  Try to eat more vegetables and fruit.
• Stay active.  You can break up exercise into 10-minute blocks for a total of 30 minutes per day.

 
 

Mt. Zion Monthly Health Tips
*Mind, Body, Spirit* = Wellness
November 2020
 
November is designated as National Diabetes Awareness Month  
 
Our community continues to have the overall highest incidence of diabetes in the nation.  During the pandemic it is important to monitor your blood glucose levels and report consistent highs and low to your health care provider.  The Mt. Zion Health and Wellness ministry strives to provide education on eating healthy, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and drinking water as your primary beverage to help prevent and manage diabetes.    
 
COVID-19 is a new disease. Currently there are limited data and information about the impact of underlying medical conditions and whether they increase the risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Based on what we know at this time, adults of any age with Diabetes might be at an increased risk for severe illness from the virus that causes COVID-19.
 
 
Thinking about family gatherings for Thanksgiving?  The following is an excerpt from the CDC website on recommendations for in-person visits with family and friends.  To view the entire article on COVID and people with medical conditions, visit:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html
 
When to delay or cancel a visit

• Delay or cancel a visit if you or your visitors have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.
• Anyone who has had close contact with a person with COVID-19 should stay home and monitor for symptoms.

In general, the more people you interact with, the more closely you interact with them, and the longer that interaction, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spread. So, think about:

• How many people will you interact with?
• Can you keep 6 feet of space between you and others?
• Will you be outdoors or indoors?
• What’s the length of time that you will be interacting with people?

Encourage social distancing during your visit

• Visit with your friends and family outdoors, when possible. If this is not feasible, make sure the room or space is well-ventilated (for example, open windows or doors) and large enough to accommodate social distancing.
• Arrange tables and chairs to allow for social distancing. People from the same household can be in groups together and don’t need to be 6 feet apart from each other.
• Consider activities where social distancing can be maintained, like sidewalk chalk art or yard games.
• Try to avoid close contact with your visitors. For example, don’t shake hands, elbow bump, or hug. Instead wave and verbally greet them.
• If possible, avoid others who are not wearing masks or ask others around you to wear masks.
• Consider keeping a list of people you visited or who visited you and when the visit occurred. This will help with contact tracing if someone becomes sick.

Wear masks

• Masks should be worn over the nose and mouth. Masks are especially important when it is difficult to stay at least 6 feet apart from others or when people are indoors to help protect each other.
• Masks may slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others
  • Wearing a mask helps protects others in case you’re infected, while others wear one to protect you should they be infected.
• Who should NOT use masks: Children under age 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, or is incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

Wash hands often

• Everyone should wash their hands for at least 20 seconds at the beginning and end of the visit and whenever you think your hands may have become contaminated.
• If soap and water are not readily available, such as with outdoor visits or activities, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Remind guests to wash or sanitize their hands before serving or eating food.
• Use single-use hand towels or paper towels for drying hands so visitors do not share towels. Have a no-touch trash can available for guests to use.

Limit contact with commonly touched surfaces or shared items

• Encourage your visitors to bring their own food and drinks.
• Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces and any shared items between use.
• If you choose to use any shared items that are reusable (e.g., seating covers, tablecloths, linen napkins), wash, clean, and sanitize them after the event.

Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!
Praying for *MBS* Wellness to you, Mt. Zion Health and Wellness Ministry
 
 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.  It seems that we say the same things every year, but our hope is that if even one person who doesn’t know about the importance of screenings, will learn and share the information.   Have the mindset of each one, teach one.  The Health and Wellness Ministry’s mission is to educate our congregation and community about maintaining health through mind, body and spiritual wellness. Always keep in mind that both men and women should be aware of the causes and screenings for breast cancer.
Cancer is a disease that can be cured if caught in its early stages.  This is why we educate and re-educate about screenings for cancer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and the signs and symptoms of cancer. Breast exams are no longer a part of the screening recommendations because research does not show they provide a clear benefit. Still, the American Cancer Society says we should be familiar with how our breasts normally look and feel and report any changes to their health care provider right away.
 
The following is an article by the American Cancer Society and gives some information about cancer screenings in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Cancer Screening During the COVID-19 Pandemic

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, elective medical procedures, including cancer screening, were largely put on hold to prioritize urgent needs and reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19 in healthcare settings. One consequence of this has been a substantial decline in cancer screening.

As states and other authorities re-open businesses and ease restrictions, many healthcare facilities are starting to offer elective procedures again, including cancer screening. Restarting cancer screening requires careful consideration of the risks and benefits of screening, along with ensuring safety for both patients and healthcare personnel.  

Decisions about restarting screening depend on many factors, and they may not be the same for every person. They will likely vary by community while the pandemic continues.

Regular cancer screening is still important

If you had an appointment for screening that was postponed or canceled, talk to your healthcare team about when to reschedule. Your provider can discuss balancing the risks and benefits of being screened now or postponing for a later date, taking into account your personal and family history, other risk factors, and the timing of your last screening test.

It is also important to keep in mind that we’re focusing here on cancer screening. Screening tests look for cancer in people who don’t have symptoms. These tests are different from tests your doctor might order if you have symptoms that could be from cancer. If you have signs or symptoms that might be from cancer, for instance, a lump in the breast or blood in the stool, you should discuss this with your provider right away, as you will need exams or tests that evaluate those particular signs and symptoms. 

You may have options for screening 

Screening recommendations are general recommendations for large groups of people, but there may be flexibility for some screening tests. For example:

Many women get cervical cancer screening every year. However, no organization recommends cervical cancer screening with a Pap test any more often than every 3 years, and if an HPV test is used, no more often than every 5 years. If you have had normal test results in the past, getting cervical cancer screening at this time is not urgent.

Many women get an annual mammogram for breast cancer screening.  However, leading organizations that issue screening guidelines recommend that average risk women ages 55 and older can be screened every two years. If you are 55 or older and had a normal mammogram within the last year, you could choose to have your next mammogram up to 24 months after your last one.

There are several options for colorectal cancer screening for people at average risk. For example, stool tests, such as fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) or a stool DNA test (such as Cologuard), can be done safely at home. If the stool test result is positive, you will need a colonoscopy, and it will be important to talk with your doctor about the safest way to proceed with this. Colonoscopy as a screening test is still an option, but it may be harder to get an appointment now compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Your health care provider can help you determine what screening schedule and which screening tests are best for you at this time.

Screening needs to be done safely

As your regular facility for health care returns to providing cancer screening, it’s important that it is done as safely as possible. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommendations for healthcare facilities to reduce the risk of COVID transmission:

• Screening centers should be available to answer questions from patients via phone or web portal before and/or after the screening procedure.
• Patients should be pre-screened for COVID-related symptoms before screening appointments.
• Scheduling of appointments should allow for physical distancing between patients, and longer appointment times, if needed, to avoid crowding in waiting rooms and patient care areas.
• There should be limitations on visitors other than patients and/or their caregivers into the screening facility.
• If not done in front of you, the screening center should be able to tell you how often equipment and surfaces are disinfected and cleaned.
• Everyone, including patients and staff, should wear a face covering or face mask, where appropriate. There should be frequent handwashing and use of hand sanitizer by staff, patients, and visitors.

We hope this information provides useful guidance as you consider when and how to safely resume cancer screening. Every community has its own unique situation and will need to rely on the judgment of the health care professionals and leaders in the community to make the best decisions possible.

This information is intended to help you understand the importance of returning to regular cancer screening as soon as it is safe to do so. At the same time, it’s important to remember that if you have signs or symptoms of cancer, or if you have additional risk factors that put you in a high-risk group, you should consult your doctor or a health provider right away for guidance.

As always, we remain available to discuss your questions and concerns. Live chat is available through our website or you can call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345.

 

• Written byThe American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team
•  
• https://www.cancer.org/healthy/find-cancer-early/cancer-screening-guidelines/cancer-screening-during-covid-19-pandemic.html

 
This year has been challenging to say the least.  We have experienced the COVID-19 pandemic, social and racial injustices, financial concerns, deaths of loved ones and so many more stressors.  We as Christians know that despite it all, God has been faithful and is totally in control!  However, even the most faithful believers can sometimes have feelings of anxiety and depression.  The following article gives information about depression and ways to combat it.  But always remember, the first line of defense is prayer - staying in constant communication with God.  His unconditional love frees us to be healthy and whole.
   
 
Pandemics can be stressful
 
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. However, these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Coping with stress in a healthy way will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.
 
Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can sometimes cause the following:
Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones, your financial situation or job, or loss of support services you rely on.
Changes in sleep or eating patterns.
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
Worsening of chronic health problems.
Worsening of mental health conditions.
Increased use of tobacco, and/or alcohol and other substances.
 
Take care of your mental health
You may experience increased stress during this pandemic. Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions and sometimes lead to depression.
 
How Do I Know If It’s Depression?
Someone who is depressed has feelings of sadness or anxiety that last for weeks at a time. He or she may also experience–
Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
Irritability, restlessness
Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
Fatigue and decreased energy
Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
Overeating or appetite loss
Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not get better, even with treatment
 
If you have feelings of depression that lasts longer than a few days, or if you have thoughts of hurting yourself or “ending it all,” get immediate help. 
Call 911 or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
 
Take care of yourself and your community
Taking care of your friends and your family can be a stress reliever, but it should be balanced with care for yourself. Helping others cope with their stress, such as by providing social support, can also make your community stronger. During times of increased social distancing, people can still maintain social connections and care for their mental health. Phone calls or video chats can help you and your loved ones feel socially connected, less lonely, or isolated.
 
 
Healthy ways to cope with stress
Know what to do if you are sick and are concerned about COVID-19. Contact a health professional before you start any self-treatment for COVID-19.
Know where and how to get treatment and other support services and resources, including counseling or therapy (in person or through telehealth services).
Take care of your emotional health. Taking care of your emotional health will help you think clearly and react to the urgent needs to protect yourself and your family.
Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
Take care of your body.
Take deep breaths, stretch, or  meditate.
Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
Exercise regularly.
Get plenty of sleep.
Avoid excessive alcohol and drug use.
 
Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. While social distancing measures are in place, consider connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.
 
To view the entire article - Resources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/managing-stress-anxiety.html
 

Mt. Zion Monthly Health Tips
*Mind, Body, Spirit* = Wellness
July/August 2020
 
 
During the Covid 19 pandemic, many of us have had a decrease in our physical activity level.  Social distancing and being unable to follow our regular daily routine have caused us to stray away from our healthy eating and exercising habits.  As a result, we have gained weight and may have experienced bouts of depression due to social isolation.  As we know, weight gain and decreased physical activity levels can cause our blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels to increase.
 
According to Health.gov, “Being physically active is one of the most important things you can do to improve your health. Physical activity has immediate health benefits, such as better sleep and reduced stress and anxiety. Regular physical activity can decrease depression and reduce your risk of obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.”
 
The good news is that every little bit of physical activity can provide health benefits – the key is to move more and sit less throughout the day. And there are many ways to be active wherever you live.
 
Five ways to be active at home:
Find an exercise video online. Search the internet for exercise videos that are led by certified exercise leaders or trainers and match your interests, abilities, and fitness level. You can find videos to help you do aerobics, dance, stretch, and build strength.
Work out with items you have around the house. Use full water bottles, canned goods, or other items for strength training if you don’t have weights around the house. Stretch with a towel. Walking or running up and down stairs (that are clear of obstacles to avoid tripping) can be a great workout.
Make the most of screen time. While watching TV, your family can do jumping jacks during commercials or move along with the characters in a show or movie by walking or running in place.
Family playtime is a great time to work in physical activity. Hoola hoops, hopscotch, jumping jacks, and jump ropes are a great way for the whole family to get active. Games like Hide and Seek, playing catch, and dancing can keep everyone moving and having fun.
Housework and yardwork count! Vacuuming, sweeping, gardening, and cleaning inside and outside where you live all count towards your physical activity goal. And you’ll knock out some items on your to-do list while gaining health benefits.”
 
Ref:
https://health.gov/news/202004/staying-active-while-social-distancing-questions-and-answers
https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity/features/active-healthy-from-home/index.html
 
Praying for *MBS* Wellness to you, The Health and Wellness Ministry