When it comes to health, it’s women and kids first

Whether filling lifeboats or food lines, the often-used adage “women and children first” sets a powerful precedent. Historically, adhering to this adage has helped ensure the continuation and health of the species.

The importance of ensuring the health and well-being of women and children is as critical today as it was years ago, although for more complex reasons. Current international studies report that women around the world play a central role in their children’s health and education, and in the economic status of the entire family.

Help a woman, and she helps her children. Here in this country, studies show that it is mainly women who manage the health of their children, spouse and other relatives. This is why many public health programs focus on health prevention and safety for women and children, and why health services for this population are vital to community health.

Last year, Clear Creek County’s Nursing Services served women in local programs including the Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC), Prenatal Plus, and Nurse Home Visitor Program.

In addition, Nursing Services continues to expand its programs for women and children through partnerships and grant opportunities. Some of these programs include Baby and Me Tobacco Free, Cavity Free by 3, Breastfeeding Consultation and other programs supporting mothers, children and families.

Women’s Wellness Day

scheduled June 16

 In recognition of the importance of women’s health, the department will host a Women’s Wellness Day from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 16. Held in Idaho Springs at the Community Resource Center, the day is planned in conjunction with the arrival of the mobile mammography van from Saint Joseph Hospital.

Mammography is open to women age 40 and over, but you must pre-register to receive a mammogram by calling 303-318-3419. All insurances are accepted except Kaiser Permanente, however women without insurance who schedule in advance will not  be turned away.  

Details are available on the county web site at www.co.clear-creek.co.us. The mammography is sponsored by Clear Creek County Public and Environmental Health, Colorado Prevention Center, St. Joseph Cancer Center, Regis University School of Nursing and state Rep. Claire Levy.

The Women’s Wellness Day also will include offerings with no appointment necessary including cardiac risk assessment (cholesterol screening, diabetes check); adult immunizations (tetanus, hepatitis, pneumonia, and shingles at discounted rates), and local health care resources and information. Women are encouraged to attend whether they are signed up for a mammogram or not. For general information on these services and on the Women’s Health Day, call 303-567-3147.

Women are the major coordinators of care and the link to the health care system for their families.

They also assume an important role as caregivers of relatives who are sick, disabled or elderly. Some women have health concerns of their own and should not neglect their own health.

Mark your calendars for the Women’s Wellness Day, a special day set aside just for women.

Linda Trenbeath is a health educator for Clear Creek Public and Environmental Health. She may be reached at ltrenbeath@co.clear-creek.co.us or by calling 303-679-2386.  Information for this article was taken in part from the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation and www.cdc.gov.