September 24, 2024
Community Health Corner
The National Extension Framework for Health Equity and Well-being recommends using community development strategies and health literacy programs to ensure that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible. The following resources help us improve well-being for all, and achieve Healthy Kansas 2030 and Healthy People 2030 objectives.
Public Health Communicators Guide to Misinformation: According to the Public Health Communications Collaborative, building trust in community and public health requires us to learn how to identify false narratives and respond with clarity, accurate information, and accessible language.The free Public Health Communicators Guide to Misinformation supports knowledge of the misinformation landscape and tools to assess risk and determine how to respond.
September is the nation’s Suicide Prevention Month: In 2008, September was designated as National Suicide Prevention Month to raise awareness about suicide prevention and share messages of hope. Suicide Prevention Month resources for suicide awareness and prevention include Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN). Data reported to KDHE about suicide in Kansas is available at the suicide-related dashboard. For example, for Kansas adults, 6,051 suicides occurred between 2011 and 2022. There was a statistically significant 51.4% increase in the suicide death rate from 2011 to 2022. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline via phone call or text message to 9-8-8.
Nation’s blood supply shortage: Since July 1, 2024, the American Red Cross’ blood supply has fallen by more than 25%. Record setting heat during the summer has been a contributor to blood collection challenges impacting more than 100 blood drives during July. Climate change and resulting climate disasters and emergencies have also impacted the nation’s donor blood supply. For example, widespread flooding, power outages and travel hazards result in blood drive cancellations and lower donor turnout. Given this persistent shortage, people are encouraged to donate who:
Age: Are at least 17 years old can donate blood. Some states allow 16-year-olds to donate with parental consent.
Weight: Weigh at least 110 pounds.
Health: Are in good health, feel well, and not taking antibiotics.
Have Consent: If they are 16 years old, you will need a signed parent or guardian consent form each time you donate.
Frequency: Have not donated within the last 56 days. Though the Red Cross accepts donations of flood blood as often as every eight weeks, but some states may limit the number and/or frequency of donations in a 12-month period.
Make an appointment here to donate blood locally.
For more information, contact Elaine Johannes, ejohanne@ksu.edu; and Stephanie Gutierrez, smgutier@k-state.edu