File photo of members of League of Women Voters – Pasadena Area in front of City Hall, Feb. 23, 2020 (Photo – lwv.org)
In 1987, Congress passed Public Law 100-9, and March was established as Women’s History Month.
By Chasity Jennings-Nuñez
In addition to recognizing the achievements and contributions of historical and contemporary women, Women’s “Herstory” Month is also a time to consider the future. The role that women will have in shaping our country depends on our ability to be active participants in our communities. Ensuring that you are as healthy as possible is one way to realize your full potential. “Herstory” has to include taking care of herself.
Heart disease and cancer are the two leading causes of death for women, no matter their race or ethnicity. What can you do to decrease the chances of death from these two problems? A healthy diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight will reduce the risk of developing hypertension and diabetes, major causes of heart disease. If you smoke and can quit, after one year your risk of heart disease is cut in half. These interventions, along with regular visits to your doctor for preventative care, are also key to preventing invasive and advanced cancers. Talk to your doctor about cervical, breast and colon cancer screening. Learn what you can about your family history, since the risk of some diseases is influenced by family history and genetics. Make your health and the health of the women you love a priority in March, so you can contribute to women’s history with your own story.
Need help?
Every Woman Counts: provides free breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services in California.
Help to quit smoking: The California Smokers’ Helpline offers free, personalized and confidential help to quit smoking and vaping.
Covered California: Need help finding health insurance. As a response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the open-enrollment period for health insurance has been extended to May 15, 2021.
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