Aloha ‘Ohana,
Did you know that today is World Heart Day? It is!
From all of us to all of you - on this world heart day, make sure to promise yourself to do your bit every day in order to keep your heart happy and healthy. It is a journey where you need to take steps every day.
#bewell #staywell #livewell #worldheartday #kahukuhealthcare #laiehealthcare #hauulahealthcare #kaaawahealthcare #koolauloahealthcare #northshorehealthcare
Aloha ‘Ohana,
In celebration of today’s International Dog Day, here are 10 Science-Based Benefits of Having a Dog from the American Kennel Club.
Unconditional love. Devoted companionship. Constant entertainment. Most of us dog lovers know that life is better with a dog. But is that knowledge based on a feeling—or is there something else at work? There is Science.
Spending time with canine companions does wonders for your well-being. Recent research shows that owning a dog is good for you physically and emotionally. Dogs make us happier, and healthier and help us cope with a crisis—and can even help you get a date.
Read on for 10 science-backed benefits of having a dog.
1. Dogs make us feel less alone.
2. Dogs are good for your heart.
3. Dogs help you stop stressing out.
4. Dogs help us cope with crises.
5. Dogs encores you to move.
6. Dogs make you more attractive.
7. Dogs make us more social.
8. Dogs are so adorable they make us love them.
9. Dogs make us happier.
10. Dogs help seniors with cognitive function and social interaction.
Click this link to see the full article: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/10-science-based-benefits-dog/
#bewell
#staywell
#internationaldogday
Aloha ‘Ohana,
Did you know that 988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline? While some areas may be currently able to connect to the Lifeline by dialing 988, this dialing code will be available to everyone across the United States starting on July 16, 2022.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We're committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness. Learn more about the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline here: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
You can also call our staff at (808) 293-9231 for more information or if you need someone to talk to.
#bewell
#staywell
Aloha ‘Ohana!
Did you know that May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month?
APPI Heritage Month is a celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. A rather broad term, Asian/Pacific encompasses all of the Asian continent and the Pacific islands of Melanesia (New Guinea, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands), Micronesia (Marianas, Guam, Wake Island, Palau, Marshall Islands, Kiribati, Nauru and the Federated States of Micronesia) and Polynesia (New Zealand, Hawaiian Islands, Rotuma, Midway Islands, Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia, and Easter Island).
Click here to learn more: https://asianpacificheritage.gov
#bewell
#staywell
#livewell
#aapiheritagemonth
Aloha ‘Ohana!
Knowing the facts about high blood pressure can help you make smart choices. One of the best things about educating yourself about high blood pressure (HBP or hypertension) is shattering these myths.
Myth: High blood pressure runs in my family. There is nothing I can do to prevent it.
High blood pressure can run in families. If your parents or close blood relatives have had high blood pressure, you are more likely to develop it, too. However, lifestyle choices have allowed many people with a family history of high blood pressure to avoid it themselves.
Myth: I don’t use table salt, so I’m in control of my sodium intake and my blood pressure.
In some people, sodium can increase blood pressure. But controlling sodium means more than just putting down the salt shaker. It also means checking labels, because up to 75 percent of the sodium we consume is hidden in processed foods like tomato sauce, soups, condiments, canned foods, and prepared mixes. When buying prepared and prepackaged foods, read the labels. Watch for the words “soda” and “sodium” and the symbol “Na” on labels. These words show that sodium compounds are present.
Myth: I feel fine. I don’t have to worry about high blood pressure.
About 103 million U.S. adults have high blood pressure — and many of them don’t know it or don’t experience typical symptoms. High blood pressure is also a major risk factor for stroke. If uncontrolled, high blood pressure can lead to serious and severe health problems.
Myth: People with high blood pressure have nervousness, sweating, difficulty sleeping and their face becomes flushed. I don’t have those symptoms so I’m good.
Many people have high blood pressure for years without knowing it. It’s often called “the silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms. You may not be aware that it’s damaging your arteries, heart, and other organs. Know your numbers and don’t make the mistake of assuming any specific symptoms will let you know there’s a problem.
Myth: I read that wine is good for the heart, which means I can drink as much as I want.
If you drink alcohol, including red wine, do so in moderation. Heavy and regular use of alcohol can increase blood pressure dramatically. It can also cause heart failure, lead to stroke and produce irregular heartbeats. Too much alcohol can contribute to high triglycerides, cancer, obesity, alcoholism, suicide, and accidents. If you drink, limit consumption to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women. Generally, one drink equals a 12-ounce beer, a four-ounce glass of wine, 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor, or one ounce of hard liquor (100 proof).
Myth: I have high blood pressure and my doctor checks it for me. This means I don’t need to check it at home.
Because blood pressure can fluctuate, home monitoring and recording of blood pressure readings can provide your healthcare provider with valuable information to determine whether you really have high blood pressure and, if you do, whether your treatment plan is working. It’s important to take the readings at the same time each day, such as morning and evening, or as your healthcare professional recommends.
Myth: I was diagnosed with high blood pressure, but I have been maintaining lower readings, so I can stop taking my medication.
High blood pressure can be a lifelong disease. Follow your healthcare professional’s recommendations carefully, even if it means taking medication every day for the rest of your life. By partnering with your healthcare team, you can successfully reach your treatment goals and enjoy the benefits of better health.
If you would like to check your blood pressure or feel the need for more information, please call (808) 293-9231 to make your appointment today. Mahalo!
#bewell
#staywell
#livewell
Aloha ‘Ohana!
Here is an important PSA from our friends at the Hawaii State Department of Health. Concerned parents who cannot find a formula to feel their baby can visit the new U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Website: hhs.gov/formula. The site helps families find formulas during this shortage and includes manufacturer hotlines, community resources, contact information for local WIC clinics, and general guidance.
IMPORTANT:
Purchase only the infant formula needed in the immediate and avoid stockpiling to ensure other families have access to critical; formal for their infants.
Pay close attention to online retailers of infant formula to ensure they are legitimate and safe sources, especially with a possible increase of online scammers.
Do not make homemade infant formula, nor provide cow’s milk before the age of 1 year, as these are unsafe practices that do not provide adequate nutrition for infants.
#bewell
#staywell
#infantformula
Aloha ‘Ohana!
What do your blood pressure numbers mean? The only way to know if you have high blood pressure (HBP, or hypertension) is to have your blood pressure tested. Understanding your results is key to controlling high blood pressure.
Blood Pressure Categories
The five blood pressure ranges as recognized by the American Heart Association are:
Normal: Blood pressure numbers of less than 120/80 mm Hg are considered within the normal range. If your results fall into this category, stick with heart-healthy habits like following a balanced diet and getting regular exercise.
Elevated: Elevated blood pressure is when readings consistently range from 120-129 systolic and less than 80 mm Hg diastolic. People with elevated blood pressure are likely to develop high blood pressure unless steps are taken to control the condition.
Hypertension Stage 1: Hypertension Stage 1 is when blood pressure consistently ranges from 130-139 systolic or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic. At this stage of high blood pressure, doctors are likely to prescribe lifestyle changes and may consider adding blood pressure medication based on your risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD), such as heart attack or stroke.
Hypertension Stage 2: Hypertension Stage 2 is when blood pressure consistently ranges at 140/90 mm Hg or higher. At this stage of high blood pressure, doctors are likely to prescribe a combination of blood pressure medications and lifestyle changes.
Hypertensive Crisis: his stage of high blood pressure requires medical attention. If your blood pressure readings suddenly exceed 180/120 mm Hg, wait five minutes and then test your blood pressure again. If your readings are still unusually high, contact your doctor immediately. You could be experiencing a hypertensive crisis.
Please call (808) 291-9231 to make an appointment with our friendly team if you would like to check your blood pressure and learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
#bewell
#staywell
Aloha ‘Ohana!
Did you know that May is National Nurses Month? All of us at Ko’olauloa Health Center send our warmest mahalo to all nurses for their compassion, strength, intelligence, and ingenuity that they provide to their patients and colleagues every day.
Ko’olauloa Health Center recognizes and respects the vital role in high-quality healthcare all nurses provide.
#bewell
#staywell
#nationalnursesmonth
Aloha ‘Ohana,
May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month! Many people have high blood pressure, and it’s associated with health risks, even if they don’t realize it. Estimates suggest nearly half of adults in the United States live with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
This month, our team at Ko’olauloa Health Center will focus on educating our community about the disease and what you can do to lower your risk factors or manage it. Fortunately, there are many ways to manage high blood pressure through lifestyle choices, as well as medications to treat it. Over the course of the month, we will be highlighting these health steps. If you’d like to learn more, please call (808) 293-9231 to make an appointment with our staff. We look forward to helping you and your family. Mahalo!
#bewell
#staywell
#livewell
Aloha ‘Ohana,
Did you know that April is National Donate Life Month? This month the Health Resources & Services Administration and all of us at Ko’olauloa Health Center are celebrating how sweet life is when someone who needs an organ transplant finds a match.
Please join us as we celebrate and honor the generosity of organ, eye, and tissue donors, donor families, as well as the lives saved through donation.
#bewell
#staywell
#lifewell
#nationaldonatelifemonth
Aloha ‘Ohana!
Did you know that today is National Doctors Day (better known as Doctors Appreciation Day)? Doctors’ Day, is an annual observance aimed at appreciating physicians who help save our lives everywhere. The holiday first started in 1933 in Winder, Georgia, and since then it’s been honored every year on March 30 which was the first anniversary of a doctor using ether anesthesia by Dr. Crawford W. Long.
Today we thank all doctors everywhere who’ve spent so much time and energy mastering their field of expertise.
#bewell
#staywell
#livewell
Aloha ‘Ohana,
Did you know that the third full week in March each year is National Poison Prevention Week? National Poison Prevention Week (NPPW), is dedicated to raising awareness to poison control centers and the Poison Help Hotline (1-800-222-1222).
#bewell
#saywell
#bewell
#staywell
Aloha ‘Ohana!
Here is some good news - starting today, every home in the U.S. is eligible to order 4 free at-home COVID-19 tests. The tests are completely free. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days.
Order your tests now so you have them when you need them by visiting www.covidtests.gov.
If you have any questions about this program or would like to get a test, vaccination, or booster at our health center, please call our friendly staff at (808) 293-9231.
#bewell
#staywell
#covidtests
In celebration of Martin Luther King Day, we remember this powerful quote:
"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of convenience and comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."
From his 1963 book, Strength to Love.
#bewell
#staywell
Aloha ‘Ohana - with everything that’s happening here at home and around the country, it’s easy to forget that today is World AIDS Day.
World AIDS Day was first observed on December 1, 1988, to bring greater awareness to HIV, as well as to commemorate those affected by the disease. Today, World AIDS Day is regarded as the longest-running disease awareness initiative of its kind in the history of public health.
We’ve come a long way since then and we believe that with focused community health programs, we can be successful in tackling the challenges we face today. Have a great week!
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#bewell
#staywell
#worldaidsday
Aloha ‘Ohana - here is some encouraging news from the CDC.
As of October 18, 2021, 219 million people, or about 66.0% of the U.S. population, have received at least one dose of a #COVID19 vaccine. Of those, 189.3 million, or about 57% of the U.S. population, are fully vaccinated.
Everyone ages 12 and older is eligible to get a free COVID-19 vaccine. If you’re not fully vaccinated, call our helpful staff at (808) 293-9231to make your vaccination appointment today. We can beat this!
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#bewell
#staywell
#stopthespread
Aloha ‘Ohana - today we’re celebrating World Mental Health Day.
World Mental Health Day is an international day for global mental health education, awareness, and advocacy against social stigma. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries.
If you need someone to speak to you, our excellent staff in our Behavioral Health department are always there for you. Call (808) 293-9231 to speak to our staff and set up an appointment, we would love to hear from you.
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#bewell
#staywell
#weseeyou
Happy Aloha Friday ‘Ohana!
Did you know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer.
The past 20 months have posed a challenge to just about everything, and breast cancer prevention has been no exception.
For the past 30 years, the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) has supported women by helping them get access to the education, screening, and support they need.
If you are interested in learning more about NBCF, click on the link below to visit the foundation’s helpful website.
https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month
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#bewell
#staywell
Today all of us at KHC celebrate World Ocean Day!
Here are just a few of the gifts we all enjoy from our oceans:
The air we breathe: The ocean produces over half of the world's oxygen and absorbs 50 times more carbon dioxide than our atmosphere.
Climate regulation: Covering 70 percent of the Earth's surface, the ocean transports heat from the equator to the poles, regulating our climate and weather patterns.
Recreation: From fishing to boating to kayaking and whale watching the ocean provides us with many unique activities.
Economic benefits: The U.S. ocean economy produces $282 billion in goods and services and ocean-dependent businesses employ almost three million people.
Food: The ocean provides more than just seafood; ingredients from the sea are found in surprising foods such as peanut butter and soymilk.
Medicine: Many medicinal products come from the ocean, including ingredients that help fight cancer, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, and heart disease.
