April is a month dedicated to a multitude of different awarenesses. Minority Health, Distracted Driving, Child Abuse, Sexual Assault, and Autism are a few things brought to the public’s awareness.
Minority Health Awareness brings awareness to health disparities that continue to affect people from racial and ethnic minority groups and encourages action through health education, early detection, and control of disease complications. It originated in 1915 and was established to promote educational efforts on the health problems facing minorities and other health disparity populations. In 2002, National Minority Health Month received support from the U.S. Congress. The resolution encouraged health organizations and Americans to have programs and activities to promote healthfulness in minority and other health disparity communities.
Distracted Driving Awareness shines light on the dangers of not being focused while driving. Whether texting, calling, setting navigation, adjusting music, talking to someone else in the car, drinking or eating, being a distracted driver is dangerous. It takes seconds for a life-threatening accident to occur. In 2020, 3,142 deaths occurred from distracted driving. This month reminds drivers that staying focused only on the road is important while driving. Sitting in a car with a distracted driver advises them to keep their eyes on the road and not add to the distractions.
The month of April is recognized as National Child Abuse Prevention Month (NCAPM), among many other things. It is important for communities to work together to help families support themselves and prevent child abuse and neglect. People are encouraged to increase awareness about child and family well-being and work together to implement effective strategies that support families and prevent child abuse and neglect. 1-855-503-7233.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month brings awareness and prevention of sexual assault, harassment, and abuse. On average, there are 463,634 victims (age 12 or older) of rape and sexual assault each year in the United States. One in five girls and one in twenty boys is a victim of child sexual abuse. Ages 12-34 are the highest risk years for rape and sexual assault. One out of six women and one out thirty men have experienced an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime. Sexual assault is a serious issue and educating ourselves and others is important. Letting, especially the young demographic, know it’s ok to speak up is critical. 1-800-656-4673. Wear teal to bring awareness to sexual assault.
Finally, Autism Acceptance Month is for spreading awareness, promoting acceptance, and igniting change. Approximately 1.85% of children and 2.2% of adults in the USA are diagnosed with Autism. In 1970, the Autism Society instituted an ongoing nationwide effort to bring awareness to autism and assurance to those with autism that they are more than capable to have the best life possible. In 1972, the Autism Society launched the first annual National Autistic Children’s week, which evolved into Autism Acceptance Month. Autism in the United States has risen from 1 in 125 children in 2010 to 1 in 54 in 2020. This month is for further cognizance of Autism signs, symptoms and opportunities for information, events, resources, and community partnerships with businesses and organizations dedicated to building inclusive experiences.