Health Education Resources

Details: Category: Health Education Resources

This November, Caregiver Action Network invites you to join them in recognizing family caregivers across the country during National Family Caregivers Month. Each November, they pause to recognize and honor the family caregivers who devote their time, energy, and love to supporting a family member or friend with health needs. This year’s focus is on connection—helping caregivers. The theme, Plug-in to Care, helps caregivers easily “plug in” to vital support tools, trusted networks, and educational resources that can make the caregiving journey less overwhelming and more supported.

Join Caregiver Action Network for Care Connections, a special Plug-in to Care Webinar Series celebrating National Family Caregivers Month. Throughout this series, they spotlight a key area of caregiving and share practical tools, peer insights, and expert advice to help you connect to the resources you need. Whether you’re navigating care for the first time or balancing caregiving with work and family, this series is designed to meet you where you are.

National Family Caregivers Month 2025 | Caregiver Webinar Series

Finally, for those moments when you need reassurance and reinforcement, here are a few helpful scriptures:

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. -- Deuteronomy 31:8

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” – Isaiah 40:29

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

Details: Category: Health Education Resources

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Each November, we pause to raise awareness about lung cancer—its risk factors, the importance of early detection, and the hope found in new treatments.

There’s good news: over the past 40 years, deaths from lung cancer have steadily declined among Black Americans. Even better, when lung cancer is discovered and treated early, it can often be cured. And today, more treatment options exist than ever before—even for advanced cases.

Still, lung cancer remains a serious concern. It is the leading cause of all cancer-related deaths in the United States. That reality reminds us of how vital it is to care for our health, to seek medical attention early, and to support one another in both body and spirit.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Often, there are no symptoms at all—which is why screening is so important.

Common signs may include:

Coughing up blood or blood-stained mucus
Frequent respiratory infections
A persistent or changing cough
Pain or ache in the chest, back, or shoulders
Shortness of breath or wheezing
Hoarseness
Fatigue, weakness, or loss of appetite
A lingering “flu-like” feeling

Getting Screened

1. Talk with your doctor or healthcare provider (such as a nurse practitioner) to find out if you should be screened.
2. Ask for a prescription for a low-dose CT scan (LDCT).
3. Your provider will refer you to a clinic or hospital that offers this type of screening.

What to Expect During Screening

The process is simple and painless:

No needles, no drinks, and no special preparation.
Avoid wearing clothing with metal (buttons, zippers, buckles).
Remove jewelry or piercings just before the test.
You’ll lie on a cushioned table while a scanner takes pictures of your lungs.
The scan takes only a few minutes and you won’t feel a thing.

Early detection saves lives—talk to your provider today about whether screening is right for you.

Helpful Resources

A Word of Encouragement

As we recognize Lung Cancer Awareness Month, let’s remember that caring for our bodies is an act of stewardship and gratitude for the life God has given us. Encourage loved ones to get checked, especially those who have smoked or been exposed to secondhand smoke.

Together, we can shine a light on prevention, stand with those in treatment, and pray for healing and hope. The Lord is still in the business of miracles—and early action can be one of them.

Details: Category: Health Education Resources

November brings a special light to the lives of many as it marks National Diabetes Awareness Month, a time dedicated to understanding and supporting those affected by diabetes.

Diabetes affects millions of Americans and is a leading cause of serious complications, including kidney failure, lower-limb amputations, adult blindness and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Yet many people remain unaware they’re at risk. Genetics, lifestyle habits and limited access to healthcare all contribute to this growing health crisis.

This November in honor of Diabetes Awareness Month and its theme — “Taking Action to Prevent Diabetes-Related Health Problems” — the American Red Cross is offering free A1C screenings to all blood donors who haven’t received the test in the past 12 months. About 1 in 5 donors tested had results in the prediabetic or diabetic range—clear evidence that early awareness can save lives.

Find a blood drive near you to take action: Schedule a Blood, Platelet or Plasma Donation | American Red Cross