Get inspired and get healthy during National Women’s Health Week

Approximately 43% of King County employees are women. During National Women's Health Week (May 9–15, 2010) and National Women's Check-Up Day (May 10, 2010) we encourage you to make your health a top priority by taking steps to improve your physical and mental health and lower your risk of certain diseases.

Women are often the primary caregivers for their families but can forget to take care of their own health. Here are some simple steps you can take to lead a longer, healthier, and happier life.

• Schedule a check-up.
  Exams, screenings, and vaccinations can help you stay healthy. Take the time to get a check-up, Pap test, or mammogram, and encourage a family member or friend to do the same. Did you know that most preventive care including well-child check-ups, immunizations, and routine health exams are covered by your health care benefits.
  
  
• Record your family health history.

  National Women’s Health Week events Organizations throughout Washington are hosting free educational workshops, resource fairs, and health screenings to celebrate National Women’s Health Week. For more information go to: http://womenshealth.gov/whw/events/ and select "Washington" from the drop down menu under "Sort by State".

  
  Knowing your family health history can help you take steps to lower your risk for developing health problems. Keep track of what you learn by using a Personal Health Record and share the information with other family members.
  
  
• Become a savvy health care consumer. 
  According to a recent study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, women make 85% of health care decisions for their families. Being equipped with information about disease risk factors, prevention, treatment, and quality services is vital in making these decisions. Check out the Logon and Learn webpage for a variety of helpful links.
  
  
• Join the WOMAN Challenge.
  The WOMAN Challenge (Women and girls Out Moving Across the Nation) is an online physical activity program that begins every year on Mother's Day. Thousands of women across the country embark on an eight-week physical activity challenge for better health, including at least 30 minutes of moderate activity or 10,000 steps (measured by a pedometer) most days of the week. Getting involved is a great way to continue your progress after completing your Individual Action Plan.
  
  
• Listen and learn.
  Listen to podcasts from the Centers for Disease Control on a variety of topics related to women’s health. Most are 5 minutes or less.
  
  
• Send a health-e-card to encourage healthy living.
  Let your friends, family, and co-workers know you care about them and their health. Choose a card for Mother’s Day, National Women’s Health Week, or other occasions throughout the year and encourage others to make a change for the healthier.
  
  
• Take a Pledge.
  It is time to put you at the top of your priority list. Take a minute to make a contract with yourself. Print out the King County National Women’s Health Week Pledge, sign it, and post it someplace where you will see it each day. Then start taking steps toward a healthier and happier you!