June is National Aphasia Awareness Month, a month-long campaign to increase public awareness about aphasia and the people living with it. This national awareness campaign asks you to learn more about this disorder that affects a person’s ability to comprehend language and communicate after a brain injury or stroke.

Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects people over 40 and newborns. It is the leading cause of blindness worldwide, but also the most treatable if caught early with a procedure that has an over 95% success rate. This month is Cataract Awareness Month, a time to raise cataract awareness and educate people about one of the leading causes of treatable vision loss in the United States.

On June 5th each year, we commemorate National Cancer Survivors Day. NCSD is the day each year that we pause to honor those who are living with a history of cancer for their strength and courage. It is also a day to acknowledge the contributions of their families, friends, and healthcare providers, as well as those engaged in cancer research.

It is important to be aware of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), its symptoms, and how it is treated. Thousands suffer from it every year, but not many are talking about it or seeking help for it. PTSD can occur after a traumatic event –war, physical or sexual assault, accidents, among others – with symptoms including depression, anxiety, nightmares, and even paranoia. PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced trauma.

The World Health Organization holds World Tobacco Day on May 31st of each year, intending to spread awareness about the risks of tobacco use and how we can make the world tobacco-free. This yearly observance also informs the public of the dangers of using tobacco, the business practices of tobacco companies, what the WHO is doing to fight the tobacco epidemic, and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living and to protect future generations.

This month, we observe National Blood Pressure Education Month by raising your awareness and using that knowledge to fight unseen, potential risks. Due to a tendency to show either minor or even no symptoms at all, high blood pressure has earned the nickname “the silent killer.” Knowledge of one’s high blood pressure — and then taking action — greatly reduces the possible risks of related health problems.

Through Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, people are encouraged to understand the risk factors associated with this condition. Preventative measures which promote healthy bones include sufficient calcium intake, achieving adequate levels of vitamin D, and performing bone-healthy exercises.

In the US, approximately 3 million people have celiac disease; 21 million people have this disease or are sensitive to gluten. Of the 3 million who have this disease only 5% know they have it. This awareness event aims, in part, to make more people aware that they may have this disease and that by eating gluten-free foods, they can eliminate their symptoms.

Rapid access to medical treatment oftentimes make the difference between full recovery and permanent disability. The aim of National Stroke Awareness Month is to make Americans aware that they may be able to 'Save A Life' of a person experiencing a stroke.

Every May, we recognize Lupus Awareness Month as a time to generate awareness and raise critical funds for life-saving research and support services. What is this currently incurable disease, and who is at risk?