In 2016, the United Nations General Assembly declared February 11 the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. In doing so, they promoted the understanding that the participation of women and girls is essential to meeting global goals for sustainable development and scientific achievement and also that barriers to their full participation persist around the globe. In fact, a study comprising 14 countries found that women are only about half as likely as men to earn bachelors’ or masters’ degrees in the sciences and one third as likely to earn science-related doctorates.

Because 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime, it’s important to understand the basics about breast health. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the U.S., claiming more than 40,000 lives annually. Although genetics can play a role in the development of breast cancer, approximately 85% of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have no known family history of the illness. Here’s what you should know to protect yourself. 

February is American Heart Month. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. and responsible for approximately 25% of deaths nationwide.[1] Although most people think of heart disease as a condition that mainly affects older people, it can occur at any age, and risk factors such as obesity and high blood pressure among young people puts them at risk for heart disease earlier in life. Learn what you can do to increase your heart health and help protect yourself and your loved ones from heart disease.

Mammography has come a long way since a few radiologists began using it to identify breast cancer in the 1950s.[1] From the development and refinement of screen film technology through the 1980s to digital mammography at the turn of the century and modern low-dose 3-D imaging, the steady march of technological improvements has enabled doctors to identify and treat breast cancer at earlier stages and facilitate better outcomes.[2]

You followed your doctor’s advice and got your annual screening mammogram. You left the imaging clinic feeling good about keeping on top of your preventive health care. A couple of days later, however, you were surprised to get a call from your doctor’s office asking you to come in for follow up. You had assumed you’d get a letter a week later saying everything is fine, but now, you are worried about the possibility of breast cancer. What should you expect?

January is National Radon Action Month. Learn what you should know about radon and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

What is radon?

Radon is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that is released naturally with the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It’s found everywhere on the earth in varying concentrations.

Painful menstrual cramps, also called dysmenorrhea, are common among women of childbearing age. More than half of menstruating women report at least some period-related pain lasting 1–2 days each month. Many factors, including diet and exercise habits and alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine intake, can influence the intensity of menstrual pain, and many women experience dysmenorrhea without any underlying condition. In fact, the release of prostaglandins, the naturally occurring substances that cause the uterus to contract during menstruation, is a primary cause of menstrual pain. 

What are fibroadenomas?

Fibroadenomas are the most common type of breast mass. They are benign and typically affect women in their 20s and 30s but can be found at any age. Juvenile fibroadenomas are the most common type of breast lump found in girls aged 10–18.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the natural pores in the bone become larger as a result of bone loss. When this happens, the bones become brittle and can break easily—even simply from coughing, sneezing, or minor bumps.

It’s no secret these days that the holidays are rough for many of us. Even for those who are looking forward to time with family and friends, delicious feasts, and treasured traditions, the time and money spent on holiday festivities can put significant strain on these precious resources. For those struggling with loss, the holidays can highlight feelings of loneliness and isolation. Whether you’re anticipating the holidays with joy, dread, or a colorful mixture of the two, prioritizing self-care will help you through all the ups and downs the season brings.