Indian Health Service The Federal Health Program for American Indians and Alaska Natives

April is National Cancer Control Month!

To combat this disease, we must continue our efforts to prevent it. Each of us can reduce our risk of developing cancer by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake and sun exposure, and living a smoke-free life. Detecting cancer early gives patients the best chance for successful treatment. Speak to your physician today about regular screenings for cancer.

• General cancer information
• Cancer prevention and control
• Help on quitting smoking

April is Alcohol Awareness Month

Addressing alcoholism in at-risk communities is key to ensuring personal stability, family recovery, and community change. The 2014 theme, “Help for Today. Hope for Tomorrow,” is dedicated to reducing stigma and raising awareness about alcoholism and alcohol-related public health issues.

Please visit the IHS Youth Regional Treatment Center website for more information on alcohol and substance abuse treatment services for American Indian/Alaska Native youth.

CDC Alcohol and Public Health web site

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise public awareness about sexual violence. Sexual assault is any sexual activity that occurs when consent is not freely given. This includes situations where a person is unable to give consent, for example when a person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

If you or someone you know needs information on sexual assault visit the IHS Sexual Assault website or the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network.

ACA Monthly Special Enrollment Periods

Open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act ended on March 31. However, if you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, you're eligible for monthly special enrollment periods. This means you can still enroll in a health plan or make changes to your current health plan once per month. Please consider enrolling in the Marketplace and sharing this information with those you know who are eligible for enrollment. To enroll today, visit HealthCare.gov .

For more information on how the Affordable Care Act impacts Indian Country, visit the IHS ACA website.

Whiteriver Indian Hospital Achieves Baby-Friendly Designation

In February, the Whiteriver Indian Hospital in Whiteriver, Arizona, achieved its Baby-Friendly designation. Whiteriver is now the 7th Baby-Friendly Hospital in the IHS system.

Breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of childhood obesity, diabetes, allergies, and asthma. Make breastfeeding a family tradition. The Gooday family of the White Mountain Apache Tribe has been breastfeeding for five generations.

Breastfeeding Promotion and Support
IHS Baby-Friendly Hospitals