Tennessee reduces Healthcare-Associated Infections

Nashville, TN – According to a report released recently by the state Department of Health, Tennessee hospitals have reduced the rates of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). The report, titled “Tennessee’s Report on Healthcare-Associated Infections: January 1st, 2008 – December 31st, 2010”, summarizes the central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) reporting activities for calendar years 2008-2010 and surgical site infection (SSI) reporting activities for the 2009 calendar year.

“Healthcare-acquired infections are a completely preventable public health threat. Only through the work and collaboration among many entities has Tennessee experienced such a significant improvement in a very short period,” said Health Commissioner John J. Dreyzehner, MD, MPH, of the Tennessee Department of Health. “Those who have contributed to the state’s success greatly deserve high praise and recognition for this tremendous accomplishment.” [Read more]

Tennesseans urged to participate in the Great American Smokeout November 17th

Get Free Help to Kick the Habit from the Tennessee Tobacco QuitLine

Nashville, TN – The Tennessee Department of Health urges smokers to join the Great American Smokeout on November 17th, 2011, an opportunity to participate with millions of others in saying “no thanks” to tobacco for 24 hours. Tennessee smokers can get their plan to quit in place now with the help of the Tennessee Tobacco QuitLine.

“The Smokeout gives smokers an opportunity to take a positive step toward a healthier life for their families and themselves,” said Health Commissioner John Dreyzehner, MD, MPH. “It’s tough to break the addiction to tobacco, and studies show those who get counseling have a better chance at success. The QuitLine is a wonderful free resource to help people transition to a life free of tobacco and its health and financial costs.” [Read more]

Community Education is key to preventing Infant Deaths

October is SIDS Awareness Month

Nashville, TN – The number of deaths attributed to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS, is declining in Tennessee. But while SIDS cases have decreased, other sleep-related deaths are on the rise in the state. During National SIDS Awareness Month this October, the Department of Health is encouraging all Tennesseans to focus on safe sleep practices as an important strategy for reducing infant mortality in Tennessee.

“Lowering the number of infant deaths in Tennessee is no simple task, but eliminating these cases of SIDS and other sleep-related deaths can make a substantial impact on our infant mortality rate,” said Health Commissioner John Dreyzehner, MD, MPH. [Read more]

Tennessee confirms Human West Nile Virus Death

People Urged to Take Precautions during Outdoor Activities

Nashville, TN – The Tennessee Department of Health has confirmed the first death in Tennessee due to West Nile virus since 2009. The individual is a resident of Shelby County.

There have been 14 human cases of the illness in Tennessee so far this year. The Department of Health urges Tennesseans to continue to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites to protect themselves against West Nile virus. [Read more]

Tennessee Celebrates Child Health Week

Nashville, TN – Governor Bill Haslam has proclaimed October 3rd-9th, 2011 Child Health Week in Tennessee. State officials recently celebrated Tennessee’s highest-ever ranking for child well-being as part of the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KidsCount Data Release.

On the heels of that announcement, Tennesseans are encouraged to put the health and well-being of children first during Child Health Week, and every week in the year ahead. [Read more]

Screening Key to Beating Breast Cancer

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Nashville, TN – October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Department of Health is challenging all Tennessee women over the age of 40 to get a clinical breast exam and mammogram. These screening tests are powerful weapons in the fight against breast cancer. The survival rate is greater than 95 percent for women whose breast cancer is found at an early stage.

“Mammograms and clinical breast exams are still the best method for finding cancer early and offering protection against the disease, leading women to get treatment before the cancer is in advanced stages,” said Health Commissioner John Dreyzehner, MD, MPH, FACOEM. “We urge Tennessee women to get screened for breast cancer and talk to their health providers about ways to reduce their risk for this disease.” [Read more]

Infant Mortality declining in Tennessee

September is Infant Mortality Awareness Month

Nashville, TN – State public health officials are encouraged by recent statistics indicating a decline in infant mortality rates in Tennessee and acknowledge there is still much work to be done. Infant mortality is defined as the death of a child before his or her first birthday. During National Infant Mortality Awareness Month this September, residents of the state should learn what they can do to support mothers of newborns and help babies reach this critical milestone.

“We are definitely making progress as a state,” said Michael Warren, MD, TDOH’s director of Maternal and Child Health. “There were 63 fewer infant deaths in 2009 as compared to 2005. That equates to three additional classrooms of kindergarteners who will have the chance to grow into healthy, productive Tennesseans.” [Read more]

Department of Health Encourages Residents to ready for Emergencies

September is National Preparedness Month

Nashville, TN – In keeping with the priority Tennessee has placed on emergency preparedness, Gov. Bill Haslam has declared September National Preparedness Month in the state.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, offering greater significance for the observance and renewing the focus on individual and family planning for emergency situations. This year’s observance theme is, “A Time to Remember. A Time to Prepare.”

The Tennessee Department of Health is issuing a call to residents to take specific steps to be prepared in the event of an emergency: get a kit; make a plan; and be informed. Detailed information is available online at www.ready.gov. [Read more]

Tennesseans drop Tobacco to improve Health

Contact the Tennessee Tobacco QuitLine for Free Assistance to Stop Tobacco Use

Nashville, TN – Tennesseans continue to choose the path to better health by stopping smoking. New data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show a decline in smoking rates in Tennessee. The Tennessee Department of Health offers free support to all Tennesseans who want to quit smoking through the Tennessee Tobacco QuitLine, 1.800.QUIT.NOW.

“We are encouraged by this data demonstrating that Tennesseans want to lead healthy lives free from tobacco,” said Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN. “Too many Tennesseans die each year from preventable illnesses linked to tobacco use. We urge those who smoke to make a plan to quit, and to contact the QuitLine for professional support.” [Read more]

Don’t get Sick while Swimming this Summer

Precautions Urged to Prevent Water Illnesses

Nashville, TN – Taking a refreshing dip in a pool, lake or stream is a great way to beat the summer heat. However, recreational water can hold germs that can make people sick. The Tennessee Department of Health is sharing simple tips to help all Tennesseans stay safe and healthy when swimming this summer.

“Swimming is a great way to exercise, and offers numerous health benefits,” said Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN. “We want to remind everyone to take common sense precautions to protect their families from illnesses that can be spread in water and help keep swimming fun and healthy.” [Read more]

« Previous Page — Next Page »