Only a few days remain in September, but the Ohio State Health Department continues to urge participation in Women’s Health Month.

Monday, September 25, 2000

Only a few days remain in September, but the Ohio State Health Department continues to urge participation in Women’s Health Month.

In a report by the National Women’s Law Center, Ohio ranked 35th among the 50 states and the District of Columbia in women’s health – a clue to the importance women’s health issues should play in the Buckeye state.

The dilemma, it seems, is getting women to worry about their health and to take positive steps toward a more healthy lifestyle, health department officials say.

There are many things women can do, including basic lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet that is low in fat and high in fiber that includes fruit, vegetables, whole grains and calcium to prevent osteoporosis.

Women should also exercise regularly, perform monthly breast self-exams and see a physician annually for a check up that includes a pap smear. Women over 40 should also have a mammogram.

For more information on women’s health issues, visit the Ohio State Health Department Web site at http://www.odh.state.oh.us.