10/13/2025 “Health Literacy Month” By Kaylee McGrath

Opening Statement and History:

According to studies, more than 40 percent of Americans have difficulty obtaining, processing, and understanding basic healthcare information which is necessary for making informed decisions. Lack of healthcare literacy can seriously hamper global healthcare efforts. Each year, October is observed as Health Literacy Month. It was author Helen Osborne, who established the month in 1999. Osborne reasoning was to increase access to healthcare information. Several camps and workshops are organized for healthcare practitioners, discussing ways to improve health literacy worldwide.

Why Health Literacy Month is Important

·       More Information Helps All of Us

When healthcare professionals communicate in an easy-to-understand manner, we all benefit.

·       It Impacts Lives Globally

People all around the world can benefit from this. It doesn't matter where you are or what language you speak.

·       Worldwide Help

Healthcare Literacy Month advocates for free access to thousands of health education resources in up to 18 languages.

Three Fascinating Body Oddities

·       Rollercoaster Organ Shift

Yes, that "stomach in your mouth" feeling when the rollercoaster plummets are actually some of your internal organs shifting slightly. Don't worry, though. The movement is only slight and they come right back to where they belong

·       Women are Colder than Men

Not emotionally, physiologically. While women have a higher body fat percentage to keep vital organs warm, this leads to their extremities getting colder, sooner. Hence, the relative lower body temperature compared to men.

·       Achy Joints Can Predict Weather

When bad weather is about to set in, the atmospheric pressure drops. This drop can lead to expansion of body tissue, which can result in swelling. The effect is more pronounced in people with arthritis

How to Observe Health Literacy Month

·       Sponsor A Child's Education

Lack of education is a major barrier to making healthcare information more accessible.

·       Organize A Bootcamp

Help educate the general public about the basics of healthcare — as well as tools they can use to make more informed decisions about their health.

·       Give An Award

Publicly call out those you consider Health Literacy Heroes and thank them for making a difference.

Closing Statement and Recap:

Health literacy is a fundamental support for achieving reasonable healthcare. It empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being, understand medical instructions, navigate the complex healthcare system, and ultimately lead healthier lives. However, poor health literacy remains a widespread issue, limiting people’s access to effective care and leading to health disparities. But what can be done to improve it? We can start by our federal and local governments playing a better role, healthcare providers and educators to provide a more educational role, and healthcare more accessible and affordable to ALL.

Source of Information: Various Google Searches

Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!