Learn simple steps you can take to protect your health and safety. Some steps take less than a minute and could save your life or the life of a loved one.

One minute or less:

• Wash your hands
• Protect your skin
• Buckle up
• Check cruise ship inspection scores before you travel
• Place infants back-to-sleep

Get information about these and 10 more steps that take 1 minute or less.

Five minutes or less:

• Test smoke alarms
• Do a skin and body check
• Make an appointment (for medical exams, screenings, and immunizations)
• Know the signs and symptoms for heart attack and stroke
• Take care of your teeth and gums

Get information about these and 15 more steps that take 5 minutes or less.

There are three different kinds of flu shot and a nasal spray. Find out which one is right for you. 

By Sima Michaels Dembo, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Population Affairs

Cervical cancer is the only gynecological cancer for which there is a screening test. Screening can help find this cancer early, when treatment can be most effective. To help you be informed and stay healthy, the Office of Population Affairs (OPA) in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has information on screenings and warning signs to help with early detection:

• Pap tests check for abnormal cells changes on the cervix.
• HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease, and is responsible for more than 70% of cervical cancers
• Cervical cancer can be treated by removing the cancerous cells or through radiation or chemotherapy.

You can use the clinic locator on OPA’s website to find a family planning clinic where you access low-cost, confidential care including Pap tests.

Find more helpful reproductive health information and publications.

Veterans who served in combat after Nov. 11, 1998 are eligible for extended health care for 5 years post discharge. Learn more about the benefits offered and find out how to apply.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women in the United States. Smoking is believed to cause 80-90 percent of lung cancer cases, but there are several additional risk factors.

You can reduce your risk of developing lung cancer by following this guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, quit.
• Avoid secondhand smoke.
• Have your home tested for radon and take corrective actions if high levels are discovered.
• Be aware of your exposure to radiation from medical imaging, especially images of the chest.
• Follow health and safety guidelines when working with toxic materials such as asbestos.
• Avoid diesel exhaust and other harmful air pollutants.

Different people experience different symptoms of lung cancer. Some symptoms may include shortness of breath; coughing that doesn’t go away; wheezing; coughing up blood; chest pain; and repeated respiratory infections.

If you have symptoms that concern you, see your doctor.