My HealtheVet Update | February 14, 2018

Veterans Health Administration sent this bulletin at 02/14/2018 09:08 AM EST

Five Steps to a Healthier Heart

Today is Valentine's Day. Sweethearts are exchanging cards, giving candy, and sending flowers. February is also Heart Month, and a great time to take your health to heart. Each year, about 800,000 people die from heart disease. You have the power to reduce your risk of developing heart problems. You can start by taking five basic steps to improve your heart health. Learn more.

Is Your Contact Info Up-To-Date On My HealtheVet?

My HealtheVet can be your personal health record keeper. It keeps your email address, street address, and essential contact information on record. Most of this info isn't shared outside of My HealtheVet, but it’s important to keep it updated. Learn more.

Agent Orange, My HealtheVet and Online Help

During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military used Agent Orange, a tactical herbicide used to reduce vegetation and tree cover in Vietnam. It was also used during April 1, 1968 and August 31, 1971 in the DMZ in Korea. Years later, some Veterans experience health effects potentially related to Agent Orange. Veterans can better manage their conditions with help from My HealtheVet. Learn more.

Don't Chew On This: Help for Quitting Smokeless Tobacco

Smokeless tobacco is just as addictive as cigarettes. In fact, one pouch or dip may contain twice as much nicotine as a cigarette. It can sometimes take many attempts to quit smokeless tobacco, and that's okay. On February 22, join others across the nation in recognition of the Great American Spit Out, a day when smokeless tobacco users are encouraged to quit for a day and, ultimately, quit for good. Quitting smokeless tobacco is hard. But it helps if you have a plan. VA has some resources to help you quit. Learn more.

Be There for Veterans

We can all take action to help prevent suicide, but many people don't know what they can do to support someone going through a difficult time. Simple acts of kindness like bringing over dinner or inviting a friend over to watch the Olympics can help someone feel less alone. Whether you have one minute or one hour to spare, you can help someone feel less alone. Be the reason someone you know finds support during a time of crisis. Learn more.

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