Search Media Items

Matthew D. Ritchey, DPT1, Hilary K. Wall, MPH1, Cathleen Gillespie, MS1, Mary G.

National Men’s Health Week is observed each year leading up to Father’s Day. This week is a reminder for men to take steps to be healthier, but they don’t have to do it alone! Whether it’s your husband, partner, dad, brother, son, or friend you can help support the health and safety of the men in your life.

On June 24, 2014, this report was posted as an MMWR Early Release on the MMWR website (http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr).

The Community Preventive Services Task Force recently posted new information on its website: "Use of Motorcycle Helmets: Universal Helmet Laws." The task force recommends universal motorcycle helmet laws (laws that apply to all motorcycle operators and passengers) based on strong evidence of effectiveness. Evidence indicates that universal helmet laws increase helmet use, decrease motorcycle-related fatal and nonfatal injuries, and are substantially more effective than no law or only partial motorcycle helmet laws.

Everyone has an important role in stopping youth violence before it starts. CDC’s Preventing Youth Violence: Opportunities for Action and its companion guide provide action steps to help everyone be part of the solution.

Research indicates disparities in risky health behaviors between heterosexual and sexual minority (referred to as LGBQ; also known as lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and questioning) youth. Limited data are available for tobacco-use–related behaviors beyond smoking status. We compared data on tobacco age of initiation, product use, and secondhand smoke exposure between general population and LGBQ youth.

As part of National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month, CDC urges women to quit smoking before pregnancy to reduce the risk of clefts of the lip or palate in babies. For free help quitting, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).

The story of Bill, a former smoker who has diabetes, had his leg amputated, and suffered kidney failure.

The story of Mariano, a former smoker who almost had a heart attack and is featured in CDC's Tips from Former Smokers campaign.

The story of Tiffany, a former smoker who successfully quit smoking and who is featured in CDC's Tips from Former Smokers campaign.