When it comes to women's health, North Carolina could do a much better job. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), North Carolina women have among the worst rates of deaths due to stroke and diabetes, ranking 48th and 46th, respectively, in 2009. Considering that women are often their family's primary caregiver, this should be of grave concern. When their health falters, so may the health of their families.
In observance of National Women's Health Week, May 9-15, the N.C. Healthy Start Foundation is conducting six free regional trainings in May and June for community-based organizations serving women of childbearing age. Trainings focus on how to use the new Health Journal Tool Kit and the self-help My Health Journal. Participants will be prepared to start conversations on recommended checkups, reproductive and emotional health topics and to help women set personal health goals.
These trainings are part of the RICHES Project (Resources In Communities Help Encourage Solutions) - dedicated to building the capacity of organizations to help women, particularly minorities and the economically disadvantaged, lead healthier lives. Funding comes from the GlaxoSmithKline Foundation and the DHHS. For information about upcoming meetings, go to: www.nchealthystart.org.
