How to Protect Your Health: Screenings, Kidney Care, and Better Sleep

When was the last time you thought about your colon, kidneys, or sleep quality?

Probably not recently—but these three areas play a major role in your long-term health.

March is the perfect time to check in on them, as it’s:

• Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month – A reminder that screening saves lives.
• National Kidney Month – Focusing on early detection and kidney disease prevention.
• Sleep Awareness Week (March 10-16, 2024) – Highlighting how quality sleep impacts your overall well-being.

Ignoring these health issues now could mean serious complications later.

But the good news?

Small, proactive steps today can protect your future.

Keep reading to learn how to safeguard your health this month and beyond.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Why Screening Saves Lives

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.

The good news? It’s also one of the most preventable cancers with regular screenings and lifestyle changes.

Who Should Get Screened?

• The American Cancer Society recommends starting screenings at age 45
• If you have a family history, you may need to start earlier
• Screening options include:
  • Colonoscopy (every 10 years) – The gold standard
  • FIT Test (at-home stool test, every year)
  • CT Colonography (every 5 years)

Symptoms to Watch For

• Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)
• Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss
• Ongoing fatigue or weakness

If you're 45 or older, don't wait—schedule your screening today. Based on findings like polyps or family history, you may need screenings more often than every 10 years.

National Kidney Month: Protecting Your Kidney Health

Your kidneys work constantly to filter waste, balance fluids, and regulate blood pressure. Yet, chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects one in seven U.S. adults—and many don’t even know they have it.

Who’s at Risk for Kidney Disease?

• High blood pressure (leading cause of kidney disease)
• Diabetes (damages kidney function over time)
• Heart disease
• Family history of kidney disease

Early Signs of Kidney Disease

• Swelling in feet or ankles
• Fatigue or trouble concentrating
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• High blood pressure that’s hard to control

How to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy

• Stay hydrated – Aim for at least 64 ounces of water per day
• Eat kidney-friendly foods – Reduce salt, processed foods, and sugar
• Move your body – Exercise helps regulate blood pressure
• Get tested – A simple blood and urine test can check kidney function

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of CKD, ask your doctor about a kidney function test this month.

Sleep Awareness Week (March 10-16, 2024): Prioritize Your Rest

Most people know that nutrition and exercise are key to good health—but quality sleep is just as important. Poor sleep can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, heart disease, and weakened immunity.

Why Sleep Matters for Your Health

• Boosts brain function – Improves memory, concentration, and mood
• Strengthens immunity – Poor sleep makes you more prone to illness
• Regulates blood pressure – Sleep is key for heart and kidney health
• Supports weight management – Lack of sleep affects hunger hormones

How Much Sleep Do You Need?

• Adults (18-64 years): 7-9 hours per night
• Older adults (65+ years): 7-8 hours per night

Signs You’re Not Getting Enough Sleep

• Feeling tired despite a full night’s sleep
• Relying on caffeine throughout the day
• Trouble focusing or remembering things
• Waking up frequently at night

Tips for Better Sleep

• Stick to a sleep schedule – Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily
• Limit screen time – Blue light from phones disrupts melatonin production
• Avoid caffeine in the evening – It can stay in your system for six or more hours
• Create a bedtime routine – Try reading, stretching, or deep breathing before bed

This week, challenge yourself to improve your sleep by setting a bedtime routine and limiting screen time before bed.

Take Action for Your Health This March

Your health isn’t just about how you feel today—it’s about the choices you make now that shape your future. March is a powerful reminder to take charge:

• Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: If you're 45 or older, schedule your screening—it could save your life.
• National Kidney Month: Stay hydrated, eat kidney-friendly foods, and get tested if you're at risk.
• Sleep Awareness Week: Prioritize quality rest to improve energy, focus, and long-term health.

By making small, intentional changes—whether it’s booking a preventive screening, drinking more water, or improving your sleep habits—you’re investing in a healthier, stronger future.

Which health goal will you focus on this month?

Let’s make March a month of action and awareness.