February is American Heart Month and National Cancer Prevention Month! Take charge of your physical and behavioral well-being by prioritizing prevention, staying informed about essential screenings, and proactively managing heart health. Committing to these key strategies safeguards your long-term health and well-being. This month, the Employee Health & Well-Being Team focuses on providing simple, actionable ways to protect your heart and reduce cancer risk through the events and offerings below:
February Wellness Wednesday: Boots and (Heart) Beats Line Dancing
To celebrate the start of the Houston Rodeo season, join Yvonne Romero, vice president for Enrollment and dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, and the Rice Employee Health and Well-Being team for a lively line dancing session designed to get your heart pumping and your boots stomping! Attendees will receive red bandanas in recognition of February being American Heart Month. Our DJ will have all the hits playing, so get ready to kick up your heels in this 45-minute beginner-friendly dance session filled with fun, fitness and Texas spirit.
Date: February 26, 2025 Time: 4 - 4:45 p.m. Location: Gibbs Recreation and Wellness Center Courtyard
Registration is encouraged for planning purposes
Experience in line dancing not required
Event will be outdoors (inclement weather plan: MAC Gym)
No membership required
Locker room and shower access available
Towels will be provided
Use this link to RSVP and to learn more about the monthly Wellness Wednesday series and view the FAQs.
In observing American Heart Month, February is a reminder to pay special attention to understanding, preventing, and treating heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. In 2022, 1 in every 5 deaths in the United States was caused by heart disease. However, 80% of cardiovascular diseases are preventable through lifestyle changes.
Eat Smart – Choose heart-friendly foods like leafy greens, whole grains, and omega-3-rich fish. Explore heart-healthy recipes.
Manage Stress – Try activities such as mindfulness, breathwork, or yoga by taking a stress-reducing break.
Know Your Numbers – It is important to know your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Find out your heart risk.
Small Steps Matter – Even small steps like swapping sugary snacks for fruits or taking the stairs can help lower your risk.
Upcoming On-Campus Events:
Cardio Check at the Rec, presented by the Rice Recreation Fitness and Wellness Program and REMS Date/Time: February 26 from 4 - 6 p.m. Location: Gibbs Recreation and Wellness Center Front Lobby Details: Come get your blood pressure taken! No registration is required, walk-ins are welcome.
Cancer Prevention: Reduce Your Risk Today
Well-being starts with self-awareness and preventative action. Listening to your body and making small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Up to 50% of cancers are preventable through healthy lifestyle habits.
Cancer Prevention Strategies:
Know your Family Health History – Understanding your family health history empowers you to advocate for earlier cancer screenings. By discussing your family’s medical background with your doctor, you can determine which screenings are appropriate, when to begin them, and how frequently they should be conducted. Additionally, this information can help assess whether genetic counseling or testing may be beneficial in guiding your preventive care.
Galleri Multi-Cancer Early Detection – Galleri testing is a multi-cancer early detection test, that screens for a signal shared by 50+ cancers, including fast-spreading and aggressive cancers that don't show symptoms in the early stages. Please email Dr. Anatolia Vick-Kregel at av82@rice.edu to learn more about Galleri testing.
Self Examinations – Self-checks should be completed regularly. Check your body for anything out-of-the-ordinary including differences in moles or skin spots. Don't ignore the signs or symptoms of abnormal feelings or visible differences.
Upcoming On-Campus Events:
Skin Cancer Screenings Skin cancer screening dates coming soon!
