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Falls are one of the leading injuries that take seniors to the hospital. What better day to focus on fall prevention than the first day of Fall? National Falls Prevention and Awareness Day is devoted to raising awareness regarding fall-related injuries and their prevention, especially amongst older adults. One in three elderly persons falls each year in the United States. Most of these mishaps are preventable. Preventive measures you can take include: Find a balance or exercise program. Talk to a medical professional or a doctor. Review your medications. Have your vision and hearing checked annually. Keep your home safe. Speak with family members about any issues or concerns you may have. A little prevention can stop months or years of pain and inactivity. Use this day to ensure you’re doing everything in your life to prevent unnecessary falls and slips.

Africa

Sep

Family Day, Keep Kids Away from Drugs: September 22

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Family Day is a national initiative created by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse to promote simple acts of parental engagement as key ways to help prevent substance use in children and teens.

Africa

Sep

Glucose Awareness Week, Ntl: September 22-28 (est)

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A WEEK TO FOCUS ON GLUCOSE: GLUCOSE AWARENESS WEEK Glucose Awareness Week is typically organized by health and diabetes organizations, such as the American Diabetes Association, to promote understanding of glucose levels and their impact on overall health. The week focuses on raising awareness about managing blood glucose, particularly for people with diabetes or those at risk. The event emphasizes the significance of glucose management in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It covers topics like how the body processes glucose, the role of insulin, the dangers of high or low glucose levels (hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia), and ways to maintain balanced blood sugar through diet, exercise, and medications. Participation in Glucose Awareness Week can include: —Health screenings: Many clinics or community health centers offer free blood glucose testing. —Educational workshops: These workshops inform people about managing glucose levels and preventing complications like diabetes. —Online campaigns: Social media campaigns may offer tips, success stories, and resources. —Fundraising events: Charitable events, such as walks or runs, raise money for diabetes research and education. Why is glucose essential? Glucose is a vital source of energy for the body's cells. It comes from the carbohydrates we eat, and insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps move glucose from the bloodstream into the cells for energy. What happens if you have too much or too little glucose? —Too much glucose (hyperglycemia): High blood sugar can lead to serious complications over time, such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems. It is commonly associated with diabetes. —Too little glucose (hypoglycemia): Low blood sugar can cause dizziness, confusion, sweating, shaking, and fainting. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to unconsciousness or seizures if not treated promptly. Managing glucose levels is essential to avoid these extremes and maintain good health. WHAT IS GLUCOSE? Glucose is a type of sugar that is the primary energy source for the body's cells. It comes from carbohydrates in foods like bread, rice, fruits, and sweets. Once glucose enters the bloodstream, it requires insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, to help cells absorb and use it for energy. Glucose and insulin balance is vital for maintaining stable energy levels and overall health. How Does Glucose Impact Diabetes? The body's ability to regulate glucose remains impaired with diabetes: —Type 1 diabetes: The pancreas produces little to no insulin, so glucose cannot enter the cells, causing high blood sugar levels. —Type 2 diabetes: The body either becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough, leading to elevated blood glucose levels over time. Gestational diabetes: Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot effectively use insulin, resulting in higher glucose levels. If glucose levels remain high for extended periods, it can damage organs, nerves, and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease, kidney failure, vision problems, and other complications. GLUCOSE AND DIABETES Glucose was first isolated in 1747 by German chemist Andreas Marggraf, who identified it in raisins. Later, in 1811, the French chemist Jean Baptiste Dumas identified glucose as a primary product of carbohydrate breakdown, leading to a deeper understanding of its role in human metabolism. TOP FIVE WARNING SIGNS OF DIABETES —Frequent urination: High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work overtime, leading to more urination. —Excessive thirst: As the body loses fluids through increased urination, dehydration sets in, causing persistent thirst. —Unexplained weight loss: Despite eating more, people with diabetes may lose weight because the body can't use glucose effectively. —Fatigue: Lack of energy due to the body's inability to convert glucose into energy can cause persistent tiredness. —Blurred vision: High glucose levels can affect the eyes' lenses, leading to temporary vision problems. These symptoms are key indicators and should prompt immediate medical consultation if noticed. CAN PEOPLE RECOVER FROM DIABETES? Diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes, can often be managed and, in some cases, reversed with lifestyle changes, but full recovery (complete elimination of the disease) is generally not possible, especially for Type 1 diabetes. Here's how it works: Type 1 Diabetes: —Recovery: There is currently no cure for Type 1 diabetes. It is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with Type 1 diabetes need lifelong insulin therapy to manage their glucose levels. —Management: Individuals can manage Type 1 diabetes through insulin injections, a controlled diet, and regular exercise to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Type 2 Diabetes: —Reversal/Remission: In some cases, people with Type 2 diabetes can achieve remission, meaning their blood sugar levels return to a healthy range without the need for medication. Remission or reversal is usually accomplished through significant lifestyle changes, such as: —Diet: A healthy, low-calorie, low-carb diet focusing on whole foods (vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains) can significantly reduce blood sugar levels. —Weight loss: Losing excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can improve insulin sensitivity and help the body regulate blood sugar more effectively. —Exercise: Regular physical activity (such as walking, swimming, or strength training) helps lower blood sugar levels and boosts the body's response to insulin. —Medication: Medications that reduce insulin resistance or stimulate insulin production may be required temporarily. —Long-Term Management: Even if remission is achieved, ongoing lifestyle modifications are needed to maintain it, as diabetes can return if old habits resume. Gestational Diabetes: —Recovery: This form of diabetes usually goes away after childbirth. However, women who have had gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life, so adopting healthy lifestyle practices is essential. PREVENTION AND EARLY INTERVENTION For individuals at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes (e.g., prediabetes), early intervention with lifestyle changes can prevent the progression to full-blown diabetes. While there is no complete "cure" for diabetes, especially for Type 1, many people can live healthy, normal lives by managing the disease effectively. In the case of Type 2, some people can achieve remission through sustained lifestyle changes.

Africa

Sep

Hafte Defâ Moqaddas (IR)(1980): September 22-28

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HAFTE DEFÂ MOQADDAS IRAN'S SACRED DEFENSE WEEK Hafte Defâ Moqaddas, or Sacred Defense Week, is a national Iranian holiday held annually from September 22 to September 29. The week commemorates the valor and sacrifices of Iranian soldiers and civilians during the Iran-Iraq War, which raged from 1980 to 1988. The Iranian government established it in the aftermath of the war to honor those who fought in defense of the country during what is known in Iran as the Sacred Defense. The holiday was officially decided upon by Iran's Supreme Leader at the time, Ayatollah Khomeini, in recognition of the war's profound impact on the nation and the importance of preserving its memory. The week coincides with the anniversary of Iraq's invasion of Iran on September 22, 1980, marking the start of the eight-year conflict. Hafte Defâ Moqaddas is marked by large-scale military parades, with Tehran hosting the most prominent display, including missile showcases and flyovers by the Iranian Air Force. Throughout the country, exhibitions, speeches, and cultural programs emphasize national unity and the heroism of soldiers. Iranian media extensively covers personal stories of war veterans and martyrs, fostering a sense of patriotism and reverence for the nation's defenders. The week is a somber reminder of the heavy toll the war exacted, with over a million casualties between both sides. Hafte Defâ Moqaddas remains essential to Iran's national identity, underlining the country's enduring narrative of resistance and resilience against foreign aggression. DIPLOMACY RENDERS A CEASEFIRE The ceasefire in the Iran-Iraq War, which took effect in August 1988, resulted from a combination of military, political, and economic factors that left both nations exhausted and unable to continue the conflict. Key Reasons for the Ceasefire: —Military Stalemate and War Fatigue: After eight years of intense fighting, neither Iran nor Iraq had achieved a decisive victory. Both sides had made significant territorial gains and losses at different points, but the war had largely devolved into a grinding stalemate. Casualties were staggering, with estimates of around a million dead and millions more wounded or displaced. By 1988, both nations faced severe war fatigue, with morale plummeting and their populations and economies stretched to the breaking point. —Economic Pressure: The war severely strained the economies of both Iran and Iraq. The prolonged conflict disrupted oil exports, a critical source of revenue for both nations. Iraq, in particular, had borrowed heavily from Arab neighbors like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait to finance its war efforts, leaving the country deeply in debt. Iran, meanwhile, struggled under international sanctions and the financial burden of sustaining the war effort. By the late 1980s, the economic pressures were pushing both nations toward seeking an end to the conflict. —Iraqi Gains and the Shift in Momentum: In 1988, Iraq launched a series of successful offensives, aided by its improved military capabilities and the use of chemical weapons. Iraq regained much of the territory it had lost earlier in the war and pushed Iranian forces back. Iran, facing internal dissent and a faltering military, began to realize that it could not achieve a decisive victory and that continuing the war would only lead to further losses. —International Mediation and UN Pressure: The international community, particularly the United Nations, had long been attempting to broker a peace deal. In 1987, the UN Security Council passed Resolution 598, which called for an immediate ceasefire, withdrawal of forces to internationally recognized borders, and peace negotiations. Although Iran initially rejected the resolution, by 1988, the deteriorating military and economic situation forced Tehran to reconsider. —Fear of Further Escalation: Iran was also under increasing threat from Iraq's use of chemical weapons, as well as the possibility of deeper involvement by external powers. Iraq had received support from Western countries and Arab states, and there was concern that the conflict could escalate further, potentially involving the superpowers more directly or resulting in even greater devastation. —Internal Iranian Realization: By mid-1988, Ayatollah Khomeini and the Iranian leadership concluded that the costs of continuing the war outweighed any potential gains. Despite Khomeini's earlier vow to fight until Iraq's defeat, the realization that Iran could no longer sustain the conflict led to a pragmatic shift. Khomeini famously described accepting the ceasefire as "drinking from a poisoned chalice," indicating how difficult the decision was for Iran. CEASEFIRE AND AFTERMATH On July 18, 1988, Iran formally accepted UN Resolution 598, agreeing to a ceasefire. Iraq had already accepted the resolution and halted its offensives. The ceasefire began on August 20, 1988, under UN supervision. Though the war technically ended in a stalemate with no significant territorial changes, it left both nations devastated and with lingering tensions. Full diplomatic relations between the Iranian and Iraqi governments were not restored until 1990.

Africa

Sep

Happiness at Work, Intl. Week of: September 22-26

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ABOUT INTERNATIONAL WEEK OF HAPPINESS AT WORK Each September, organizations around the world participate in the International Week of Happiness at Work, an initiative aimed at fostering joy, engagement, and well-being in the workplace. Launched in 2018 by Happy Office, a Dutch consultancy firm specializing in workplace happiness, this global movement is supported by workplace happiness advocates such as Happy Office and various international partners who believe that happiness at work is essential for both employee satisfaction and organizational success. The primary goal of the International Week of Happiness at Work is to raise awareness about the importance of happiness in the workplace and to encourage companies to create environments where employees feel valued, motivated, and content. The campaign promotes the idea that a happy workforce leads to increased productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. THE IMPORTANCE OF A HAPPY WORKPLACE Happiness at work is crucial for several reasons: Increased Productivity—Happy employees are more motivated, engaged, and productive. Lower Turnover Rates—Job satisfaction reduces employee turnover and recruitment costs. Enhanced Creativity and Innovation—A positive work environment encourages creativity and innovative thinking. Better Health and Well-being—Happier employees tend to experience lower stress levels and better overall health. Improved Customer Satisfaction—Content employees are more likely to provide better service, leading to higher customer satisfaction. FIVE STEPS TO CREATE A HAPPY WORKPLACE Foster a Positive Work Culture—Encourage open communication, recognize achievements, and create an inclusive environment where employees feel respected and valued. Promote Work-Life Balance—Offer flexible working hours, remote work options, and support for employees’ personal needs to help them balance work and personal life. Provide Opportunities for Growth—Invest in employee development through training, mentorship programs, and clear career progression paths to help employees grow and feel a sense of accomplishment. Encourage Employee Engagement—Involve employees in decision-making processes, seek their input on projects, and provide opportunities for team-building activities to foster a sense of belonging and collaboration. Focus on Well-being—Implement wellness programs, offer mental health support, and create a healthy work environment with ergonomic workspaces and opportunities for physical activity. The International Week of Happiness at Work highlights the critical role that happiness plays in achieving a thriving workplace. By promoting strategies to enhance employee well-being and satisfaction, this initiative aims to create more positive, productive, and successful organizations. Supported by Happy Office and a growing network of global advocates, the movement continues to inspire companies to prioritize happiness as a key component of their workplace culture.

Africa

Sep

Happiness at Work, Intl. Week of: September 22-26 (est)

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Africa

Sep

Hobbit Day: September 22

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Hobbit Day, or the mutual birthday of Bilbo and Frodo, falls on September 22 each year. Bilbo and Frodo are two fictional characters in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. Although they were not born in the same year, they were born on the same day. On this day, Tolkien fans do not wear shoes in honor of the hobbits who do not wear them. Schools and libraries get students’ attention by displaying Tolkien’s works and hosting Tolkien-inspired events. This event first ran in 1978.

Africa

Sep

Ice Cream Cone Day (1903): September 22

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September 22, 1903, Italo Marchiony filed patent #746971 for the first ice cream cone. The ice cream cone patent was granted on December 15 of that same year. Thanks to Marchiony, the ice cream was now portable. The rest is history.

Africa

Sep

Independence Day, (ML)(1960): September 22

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Independence Day in Mali marks the anniversary of September 22, 1960, when the nation gained independence from French rule. Independence Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Sep

Jotijot (S)(1539): September 22

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On this day in 1539, Guru Nanak Sahib, the founder of Sikhism, died.

Africa

Sep

Mabon: September 22

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Mabon is a pagan observance of the harvest season in Wiccan and other faiths.

Africa

Sep

Migraine Awareness Week, Ntl. (UK): September 22-28 (est)

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National Migraine Awareness Week in the United Kingdom seeks to raise awareness about headaches and their undervalued effect on our health. Currently, one in seven people within the United Kingdom suffer from migraines. These intense headaches are debilitating and affect every aspect of life.

Africa

Sep

Native American Day, (US-TN): September 22*

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Native American Day in Tennessee honors the Native American culture and its contributions to the fabric and vitality of the United States. In 1994, the General Assembly of Tennessee passed legislation declaring the fourth Monday of September as American Indian Day. Similar celebrations occur on the 4th Friday in September or the 2nd Monday in October, depending upon the state.

Africa

Sep

Reflexology Week, World: September 22-28

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World Reflexology Week occurs annually during the last week of September. Its purpose is to increase public awareness of holistic and complementary health care and active participation from ICR members. Reflexology is a holistic approach to healthcare that taps into pressure points on the feet, lower leg, hands, face, or ears to alleviate pain and stress in other parts of the body.

Africa

Sep

Rhino Day, World: September 22

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World Rhino Day aims to raise awareness of the plight of the five rhino species. First observed in 2011 and sponsored by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Lisa Jane Campbell championed the cause from the Chishakwe Ranch in Zimbabwe and Rhishja Cota-Larson. Because of their efforts, many non-profit organizations, zoos, and other related organizations have joined the campaign, making it a global phenomenon.

Africa