Florida Department of Health

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are not the same, and understanding how they differ is an important step toward better health and awareness.

This American Diabetes Month, we're highlighting the importance of education, prevention, and ongoing management. While type 1 diabetes cannot currently be prevented, healthy lifestyle habits, including regular physical activity and balanced nutrition, can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and support its management.

Looking for more information about diabetes, prevention, and management? Explore resources at FloridaHealth.gov/Diabetes.

One of the biggest threats to your lung health may be something you can’t see, smell, or taste.

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter homes through cracks and openings in the foundation. It is a leading cause of lung cancer among people who don’t smoke, and long-term exposure can increase your risk of developing lung cancer.

Testing is the only way to know if radon levels in your home are elevated. If high levels are found, steps can be taken to reduce them and help protect you and your family.

This Healthy Lung Month, remember that protecting your lungs can start at home. You can request a free radon testing kit at FloridaHealth.gov/Radon.

Healthy teeth, healthy bodies!

Did you know your oral health is connected to your overall health? Poor oral health, including gum disease, has been linked to other health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. Taking care of your teeth and gums is just as important as taking care of the rest of your body!

Make your smile a priority by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental checkups.

Find more information and resources at FloridaHealth.gov/Dental.

October is SIDS Awareness Month—a time to share lifesaving safe sleep practices, and remember the babies and families whose lives have been forever changed by sudden unexpected infant deaths.

Sleep-related deaths remain one of the leading causes of death for infants between 1 month and 1 year of age. About 3,500 babies in the U.S. die suddenly and unexpectedly each year from sleep-related causes, including Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and accidental suffocation.

While not every SIDS death can be predicted or prevented, practicing the ABCs of safe sleep can help reduce the risk of sleep-related infant deaths and create a safer sleep environment for your baby.

Learn more about safe sleep at FloridaHealth.gov/SafeSleep

ICYMI: The Florida Department of Health held a public hearing on proposed changes to Rule 64D-3.046, Florida Administrative Code, regarding immunization requirements for school entry.

The proposed changes would remove requirements established through DOH rule for Hib, hepatitis B, varicella (chickenpox), and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines.

This proposal does not ban or prohibit these vaccines. Parents may continue to choose these immunizations for their children, and the vaccines will remain available. The proposed changes are intended to strengthen parental rights by giving parents greater authority to make health care decisions for their children.