Alcohol and Pregnancy . . . Why Take the Risk?

A new Vital Signs report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alcohol and Pregnancy highlights the fact that:

• More than 3 million US women are at risk of exposing their developing baby to alcohol. 
• 3 in 4 women who want to get pregnant as soon as possible report drinking alcohol. 
• 100% Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders are completely preventable. 

Why take the risk?

• Women who are pregnant or who might be pregnant should be aware that any level of alcohol use could harm their baby.

• All types of alcohol can be harmful, including all wine and beer.

• The baby’s brain, body, and organs are developing throughout pregnancy and can be affected by alcohol at any time.

• Drinking while pregnant can also increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, prematurity, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Read the report, view an infographic with data and learn about prevention.

Cardiovascular Disease Risk Rising Among Women

Globally, people are spending more and more time engaged in sedentary behaviors. Computers, television, and other electronic devices are encouraging physical inactivity as well as sedentary jobs and modes of transportation.

In a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, women who  were physically inactive and spent 10 hours or more sitting each day were at 63% greater risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) when compared with women who were regularly active.
It is also important to note that women who met physical activity guidelines but sat for long periods each day had an increased CVD risk. Due to the results of this study, the Jefferson County Public Health Department challenges you to get up and move around throughout your day!

Here is an idea to help take care of your heart and your loved ones hearts!  Participate in the Million Hearts Initiative, an effort to prevent 1 million heart attacks and strokes over five years.