National Public Health Week

The first week of April is National Public Health Week.


This year National Public Health Week celebrates 30th anniversary. This year's theme is “It Starts Here.” Public health starts with each of us making a difference in our homes and communities. It’s how the places we live, work and play affect our well-being. It’s the way we are all stronger and healthier together. This #NPHW, join your community in supporting and advocating for public health. Each day this week has a different theme. Below you will find a list of the daily themes. You can make a difference. Visit www.NPHW.org for more information.

Monday, April 7th

It Starts Here


Tuesday, April 8th

Climate Actions


Wednesday, April 9th

Health Equity


Thursday, April 10th

Advocacy


Friday, April 11th

Strengthening the Public Health Workforce


April is National Donate Life Month

Observed in April each year, National Donate Life Month helps raise awareness about donation, encourages Americans to register as organ, eye and tissue donors and to honor those who have saved lives through the gift of donation. Saying “YES” could save a life. Right now, nearly 5,000 people in Massachusetts are waiting for a life-saving organ transplant. By registering as an organ donor, you have the chance to give hope and life to those in need. One donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation. It’s quick and simple to sign up. Just check ‘yes’ when renewing your license at the RMV! Register as an organ donor and learn more about organ and tissue donation at: organdonor.gov

Be the Match – Bone Marrow Donation

Did you know that 70% of patients in need of a transplant don’t have a matching blood stem cell donor within their family? For individuals diagnosed with blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma, or other serious illnesses, a bone marrow transplant may be their best or only chance at survival. The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) campaign works to expand the registry of potential donors to help save lives. If you’re between the ages of 18 and 40 and meet specific health requirements, you can sign up to join the donor registry today. The vast majority—about 90%—of donations involve a non-surgical blood stem cell collection, similar to giving blood. It’s a simple act that could make a life-changing difference. To join the NMDP registry, click here.


Renewal – Kidney Donation

Renewal guides patients and their families through every step of the kidney transplant journey—from identifying a donor to coordinating the transplant and post-transplant care. At the same time, Renewal ensures donors receive the support they need, making the donation process as smooth and safe as possible. Learn more.


Donate Blood

The United States is currently facing a national blood shortage—the most severe in over ten years. Donated blood plays a vital role in saving lives, from emergency care for trauma patients to ongoing treatments like cancer-related transfusions. Right now, all blood types are urgently needed, with a critical demand for type O positive, O negative, and platelet donations. A single 15-minute donation can help save as many as three lives.

How to Help

April is National Stress Awareness Month

April is National Stress Awareness Month, and the primary goal is to educate the public about the impact of stress on our physical and mental health. Stress can take a toll on your body, mind, emotions, and actions. Recognizing the signs of stress is an important first step in managing it effectively. When ignored, chronic stress can lead to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

For more information regarding coping with stress visit the CDC website by clicking HERE.


The Newton Human Services Division also offers resources for mental health and wellness, crisis support and suicide prevention, and can provide referrals to therapy and counseling services. Visit the Human Services Mental Health Resources page to learn more.

Upcoming Events

Good luck to all Boston Marathon runners!

Boston 2025--Team Newton

Health and Human Services

1000 Commonwealth Ave

Room 107A

Newton, MA 02459

health@newtonma.gov

(617) 796-1420

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