In honor of National Women's Health Awareness Week, and in an effort to live a longer, healthier and happier life, I pledge to:
Get Physical
I pledge to recognize that small steps can add up to big benefits. Each week I will try to get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity, or a combination of both. Click here for fitness tips.
Eat Better
I pledge to eat a nutritious diet and to avoid unhealthy food choices.
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Reduce Stress
I pledge to ask myself what causes me stress so that I may both reduce my stress levels and learn how to best deal with it when it's unavoidable. Paying attention to my mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress, will improve my overall health. Click here to learn ways to manage stress.
Learn My Family Medical History
I pledge to ask older members of my family the 10 Family Medical History Questions. Knowing my family's medical history will help me and my health care provider determine my personal risk factors and screening tests we might otherwise overlook. Plus, if a pregnancy is in my future, my obstetrician will take my family history into consideration when recommending genetic counseling or other tests necessary for the health and well-being of my baby.
Schedule Regular Checkups to Maintain Good Health
I pledge to schedule regular checkups so that my health care provider may identify and administer the preventive screening tests and immunizations I need at this point in my life. Click here to see our preventative screening guidelines.
Kick Bad Habits
I pledge to be smoke-and drug-free, to always wear my seat belt and to find someone to talk to if I'm in a physically or emotionally abusive relationship.
Share this Pledge with the Women in My Life
I pledge to celebrate National Women's Health Week by sharing this pledge with the women in my life. In doing so, I will encourage them to get regular checkups; educate them on the importance of physical activity, a healthy diet and stress management; and—just as importantly—remind them that their health and wellness are important to me. Together, I hope we live longer, healthier and happier lives.