There are many awareness months and associated colors throughout the year that promote various health, social, and environmental causes. Raising awareness of issues through dedicated months and symbolic colors helps educate the public, reduce stigma, honor those affected, and inspire action.
January
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, represented by the color teal. Cervical cancer used to be a leading cause of death for women in the U.S. before the development of the Pap test. This month promotes education, prevention, and early detection of cervical cancer and HPV.
January is also National Stalking Awareness Month, represented by the color purple. This month raises awareness of the often misunderstood crime of stalking and highlights resources available to victims.
Other health awareness months in January include:
- National Birth Defects Prevention Month
- National Glaucoma Awareness Month
- National Blood Donor Month
- National Thyroid Awareness Month
February
February is American Heart Month, represented by the color red. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the U.S. This month promotes education about risk factors and preventative steps.
February is also Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, represented by the color orange. This month increases understanding of dating violence and promotes healthy relationships among youth.
Other health awareness months in February include:
- National Children’s Dental Health Month
- AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month
- National Eating Disorders Awareness Month
March
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, represented by the color dark blue. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. This month promotes screening and early detection.
March is also National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, represented by the color blue and green ribbon. This month raises awareness and promotes inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Other health and social awareness months in March include:
- National Kidney Month
- National Nutrition Month
- National Multiple Sclerosis Education Month
- National Social Work Month
April
April is National Autism Awareness Month, represented by the color blue. This month promotes understanding and acceptance of people with autism spectrum disorder.
April is also Sexual Assault Awareness Month, represented by the color teal. This month raises public awareness about sexual harassment, abuse, and assault.
Other health and social awareness months in April include:
- National Minority Health Month
- National Distracted Driving Awareness Month
- National Child Abuse Prevention Month
- National Donate Life Month
May
May is National Stroke Awareness Month, represented by the color purple. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S. This month promotes prevention, treatment, and recovery.
May is also National Mental Health Month, represented by the color green. This month raises awareness of mental health issues and promotes emotional well-being.
Other health awareness months in May include:
- National Celiac Disease Awareness Month
- National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month
- National Hepatitis Awareness Month
- National Melanoma Skin Cancer Detection Month
June
June is National Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, represented by the color purple. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting over 6 million Americans. This month promotes research, education, and support.
June is also LGBTQ Pride Month, represented by the rainbow pride flag. The month honors the 1969 Stonewall Uprising and raises awareness for equal rights.
Other health and social awareness months in June include:
- National Scoliosis Awareness Month
- National Safety Month
- National PTSD Awareness Month
July
July is National Sarcoma Awareness Month, represented by the color yellow. Sarcoma is a rare cancer that develops in bones and soft tissues. This month promotes advocacy and funding for research.
July is also Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month, represented by the color green. This helps raise awareness for the 300,000 children in the U.S. living with arthritis.
Other health awareness months in July include:
- National Cleft & Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month
- National Cord Blood Awareness Month
- Eye Injury Prevention Month
August
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, represented by the color blue. This month highlights the importance of vaccinations for preventing dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases.
August is also National Breastfeeding Month, represented by the color purple. This month promotes breastfeeding resources and education about the health benefits of breastfeeding.
Other health awareness months in August include:
- National Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month
- Psoriasis Awareness Month
- Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
September
September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, represented by the color teal. Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect and is one of the most fatal women’s cancers. This month promotes education and community support.
September is also National Suicide Prevention Month, represented by the color purple. This month raises awareness of mental health issues and suicide prevention resources.
Other health awareness months in September include:
- National Sickle Cell Awareness Month
- National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
- National Yoga Awareness Month
- Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
October
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, represented by the color pink. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in American women. This month promotes screening and early detection.
October is also National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, represented by the color purple. This month raises awareness of domestic violence and promotes resources for victims.
Other health awareness months in October include:
- National Spina Bifida Awareness Month
- National Physical Therapy Month
- National Down Syndrome Awareness Month
- National Dental Hygiene Month
November
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, represented by the color blue. Over 34 million Americans have diabetes. This month promotes diabetes management and preventative education.
November is also National Epilepsy Awareness Month, represented by the color purple. Epilepsy affects around 3 million adults and 470,000 children in the U.S. This month promotes seizure first aid training and understanding.
Other health awareness months in November include:
- National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month
- National Caregivers Month
- National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
December
December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, represented by a red ribbon. Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death in the U.S. This month promotes safe and sober driving practices.
December is also National AIDS Awareness Month, represented by a red ribbon. Over 1.2 million Americans are living with HIV. This month promotes HIV testing, education, and ending stigma.
Other health awareness months in December include:
- National Influenza Vaccination Week
Conclusion
Awareness months throughout the year highlight important health, social, and environmental causes. The symbolic colors and dedicated time help promote understanding, early detection, preventative action, advocacy, and community support. Being mindful of the various awareness months and participating in the campaigns makes a positive difference in society.