November has begun and has brought several niche and underrated awareness events along with it. We have taken the time to highlight some movements that may get glossed over in the hustle and bustle that comes with November. Take some time to look into these observances and get involved wherever you can!

Month-Long Observances

Bladder Health Awareness Month: While this may not be the most glamourous observance of November, it is incredibly important. Bladder health often goes ignored or overlooked because of the general stigma of talking about what does or does not happen in the bathroom. Each week this month focuses on another aspect of bladder health, giving time and focus to multiple important issues:

• Week 1: Interstitial Cystitis, Neurogenic Bladder and Bladder Infection/UTI
• Week 2: Bladder Cancer
• Week 3: Incontinence, OAB, and SUI
• Week 4: Bedwetting, Nocturia, Bladder Exstrophy, and other Bladder Conditions/Diseases

Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month: An often ignored part of the diabetic experience comes in the form of eye disease. Diabetic eye disease is a leading cause of blindness, though it rarely comes with a warning sign. In an effort to spread awareness, guides have been created to help teach diabetics how to prevent vision loss through early detection, timely treatment, and appropriate follow-up care.

National Home Care and Hospice Month: November is the month of giving thanks and one of the many groups we get to highlight is the home care and hospice community. From the professional nurses, aides, therapists, and social workers to the local volunteers, the community is filled with hard workers who deserve our thanks. Take time to celebrate those in your area and let them know what their care and efforts mean to you!

Week-Long Observances

Nurse Practitioner/Radiologic Technology Appreciation Week (November 7-13): Nurse Practitioners and Radiologic Technologists are highlighted this week to bring awareness to the exceptional care that they provide. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) have put together events and ways to celebrate and thank these professionals before the week is up, so take a look today!

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Awareness Week (November 17-23): The International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) is taking the time before Thanksgiving to remind people that what they are feeling could be more than heartburn. While this is an incredibly common disease, it is largely ignored. Ignoring symptoms and delaying treatment could lead to damage to the esophagus, amongst other troublesome outcomes. Get checked out so you can enjoy the holidays without worry!

Daily Observances

National Diabetes Heart Connection Day (November 9): Several groups, such as the Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease, make the most of this day by hosting events, preparing research and presentations, and making a distinct effort to reach as many people as possible. Whether you do or do not have diabetes, spreading the information of the dangerous connection between that and heart disease is the responsibility of everyone. Doing so could be what saves someone’s life.

Great American Smokeout (November 18): Smoking any form of tobacco is incredibly dangerous and can bring long-lasting harm to the body. For years, groups like The Truth Initiative and Cancer.Org have been working to raise awareness of the dangers of smoking tobacco. The Great American Smokeout is a day to bring these efforts together and help those who need the extra push to quit.

National Family Health History Day (November 25): While spending the day with family, it might be pertinent to talk with them about the family’s history of health. Knowing your family health history can help prepare you and your doctor for future possibilities. How you act on the knowledge you gain is incredibly important. Being in front of possible genetic issues could allow you to avoid them all together, in some circumstances.

With all of the holidays taking place in November, staying involved certainly will not be a problem. If you are interested in getting involved as a provider, check out our job page and see what opportunities might be a good fit for you! If you are looking for something a bit different, send us your updated resume and we will connect you with a recruiter who can help you find your perfect opportunity.