Florida Dept. of Health

Living in Florida means spending a lot of time around the water, but water safety starts with the right skills. The Florida Department of Health Swimming Lesson Voucher Program helps eligible Florida families access free swim lessons for children ages 4 and under through certified instructors. These lessons can help children build critical water safety skills and reduce the risk of drowning. Applications close March 20! Learn more and apply today! 🔗 bit.ly/4rZF9O9

Florida has plenty of green to celebrate St. Patrick's Day 🍀 Our beautiful parks, nature trails, and outdoor spaces are the perfect place to get outside and enjoy the day. Spending time in nature is a great way to support your health and overall well-being. Find your outdoor space at HealthierYouFL.com/healthy-habits/ #FloridaHealth #HealthierYou

This week is National Drugs and Alcohol Facts Week, a time dedicated to the reminder of the importance of talking to your loved ones about the effects of drugs and alcohol on the brain and body. Getting the facts about substance use, sharing it with others, and learning to recognize the signs, supports healthy choices, especially parents of teens. Parents are the most powerful influence in their teen’s life. While they can’t control every decision they make, parents have a significant influence on their children’s decision to experiment with alcohol and other drugs. Although it may not seem like it, when parents talk about underage drinking and substance use, their children do hear them. Florida has an abundance of resources available to support the conversations between families, educators, and health care providers. Learn more about the risks and access resources that empower you to protect our future. 🔗 TheFactsYourFuture.org #NationalDrugsandAlcoholFactsWeek #SubtanceAbuse #TheFactsYourFuture

Every parent wants their baby to sleep safely and peacefully. Practicing the 𝐀𝐁𝐂’s of safe sleep can help protect your little one and bring you added peace of mind. 🤍 Sleep-related deaths remain one of the leading causes of death for infants between 1 month and 1 year of age. The heartbreaking reality is that about 3,500 infants in the U.S. die suddenly and unexpectedly each year from sleep-related causes, including SIDS and suffocation. Following safe sleep guidelines, for every nap and every night, can significantly reduce risk and help create a safer sleep environment for your baby. Learn your ABC's at FloridaHealth.gov/SafeSleep #NationalSleepDay #SafeSleep #ABCsleep

A simple fall can have life-changing consequences, especially for older adults. Falls are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries, and in 2024, they ranked #1 for injuries resulting in emergency department visits and hospitalizations in Florida. When someone falls, the impact can cause a serious head injury that affects memory, mobility, and independence. The good news? Many falls are preventable. Reduce your risk by removing trip hazards at home, installing and using handrails, improving lighting, and staying physically active to maintain strength and balance. If a traumatic brain or spinal cord injury does occur, the Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Program supports eligible residents with services that help them regain independence and return to an appropriate level of functioning in their communities. Learn more at FloridaHealth.gov/BSCIP #BrainInjury #BSCIP #FallPrevention

The Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County surpassed its screening goal at a recent mobile mammogram event, helping connect uninsured women to lifesaving cancer screenings. Through the Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, 97 mammograms and 20 cervical cancer screenings were provided at no cost to participants. Six women were identified as needing additional diagnostic testing and are receiving continued care and support through the program. Every woman has been personally notified of her results, and those who need follow-up services are being guided every step of the way. We’re proud of our dedicated team members who meet communities where they are — expanding access to essential preventive care and helping protect the health of women across Palm Beach County. #CancerScreening #EarlyDetection To learn more about the program, visit bit.ly/4rBA3XI

Endometriosis is a common, yet often underdiagnosed condition that can significantly impact women's quality of life. Raising awareness helps ensure women recognize the signs and to seek care when needed. Persistent pelvic pain, heavy menstrual cycles, or symptoms that interfere with daily activities should be discussed with a health care provider. Early evaluation can help identify appropriate next steps and treatment options. Routine well-woman visits create an opportunity to talk through concerns, ask questions, and connect with the care you deserve. Your local county health department offers women’s health services, referrals, and educational resources. Find your local heath resource: FloridaHealth.gov/CHD #EndometriosisAwareness #WomensHealth

The Florida Reimbursement Assistance for Medical Education (FRAME) program offers financial assistance to qualified health care professionals, encouraging them to serve in areas with limited access to medical care. Available to physicians, dentists, dental hygienists, APRNs, PAs, LPNs, RNs, and licensed mental health professionals, awards are given as yearly payments to offset educational loans and expenses incurred during the pursuit of degrees and licensure. Application submissions for the 2026 award cycle opens March 1. Learn more: FloridaHealth.gov/FRAME #FRAMEprogram #MedicalAssistance #FloridaHealthCare

While the Florida 50 Challenge may have wrapped-up, our commitment to healthy living continues. It's never too late to take the time to refocus on the foods and habits that help us feel our best. Use the Florida 50 Weekly Guide to help fuel your body with balanced meals, exercises, and sustainable routines that support long-term wellness. 🔗 healthieryoufl.com/florida50/ #TheFlorida50 #HealthierYouFL

Staying hydrated is one of the simplest, and most powerful, ways to support kidney health. Drinking plenty of water helps your kidneys remove waste, balance fluids, and function at their best. Make hydration part of your daily routine: ✔️ Carry a stainless steel water bottle ✔️ Choose water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables ✔️ Limit sugary beverages ✔️ Set reminders to sip throughout the day Small habits can make a big difference in protecting your kidney health. 💧 #NationalKidneyMonth #KidneyHealth #Hydration

Good oral health is an important part of children’s overall wellness and development. The Florida Department of Health provides preventative dental services, school-based sealant programs, and oral health education to help children maintain strong, healthy smiles. To explore dental health resources for families and protect their smile for a lifetime: FloridaHealth.gov/KidsDental #ChildrensDentalHealthMonth

Today, @HealthyFla celebrates the finale of the Florida 50 “Feel Better, Live Better” public health challenge, marking the successful conclusion of a statewide initiative focused on building healthier habits through small, consistent actions. Throughout the campaign, the Department shared daily guidance and educational content across its social media channels, reaching communities statewide and emphasizing progress over perfection. From fueling the body with nutritious foods to improving sleep, managing stress, and building strength and balance, the Florida 50 highlighted the connection between healthy routines and improved quality of life. As the challenge concludes, the Department will continue collecting participant success stories through the Florida 50 survey portal. bit.ly/4qdz6Uo #TheFlorida50 @FLSurgeonGen

Today, @HealthyFla continues to highlight Sustainable Habits by encouraging Floridians to build on the healthy routines they’ve developed throughout the Florida 50 challenge. Small, intentional choices — from daily movement to mindfulness and shared meals with friends — support long-term well-being. Reflect on how the Florida 50 has shaped your routine and share your story. 🔗 bit.ly/4qdz6Uo Don’t miss tomorrow’s Florida 50 message from the @FLSurgeonGen. #TheFlorida50

@HealthyFla reminds you that your wellness journey does not end on Day 50. Continue setting goals adapted to your lifestyle and focus on adding small, health-promoting behaviors to your routine. What Florida 50 weekly health theme impacted you? Share how the challenge has supported your goals and motivated others by submitting your story. bit.ly/4qdz6Uo #TheFlorida50 @FLSurgeonGen

During Week 3 Heart Strong, @FLSurgeonGen highlighted that movement does not need to be complicated. Brief walks, taking the stairs, regular stretching and other choices support improved circulation and a healthier heart. As we approach the finale of the Florida 50 “Feel Better, Live Better” challenge and observe American Heart Health Month, consider stepping outside today and continuing the momentum for another 50 days. healthieryoufl.com/florida50/ The Florida Department of Health invites you to share your experience through our survey. 🔗 bit.ly/4qdz6Uo #TheFlorida50

On International Childhood Cancer Day, we recognize the children and families affected by pediatric cancer and the importance of care and treatment. Last year, Florida awarded $30 million in grant funding to four specialty children’s hospitals to develop and improve access to clinical trials, advance treatment protocols, and discover cures for childhood cancer. With support from @GovRonDeSantis, Florida has been able to invest over $1 billion in funding to lead the way in cancer research and innovation, improving health outcomes across our state. To learn more about our state funded initiatives, please visit floridahealth.gov/funding-grants/ #InternationalChildhoodCancerDay

@HealthyFla encourages movement and stretching wherever the day takes you — including at work or school. Regular stretch breaks and light movement throughout the day are proven to help reduce mental and muscle fatigue. Celebrate your Florida 50 challenge progress by sharing your success story. bit.ly/4qdz6Uo #Florida50 @FLSurgeonGen

February is American Heart Month ❤️, a time for us all to refresh our awareness of cardiovascular disease and focus on ways to prevent your risk. Heart-healthy living habits include: - Eating a healthy diet - Maintaining a healthy weight - Getting enough physical activity - Do not smoke, or quit if you do - Limiting alcohol use - Checking and managing cholesterol levels and blood pressure - Having routine checkups and screenings by your health care team Learn more about protecting your heart at FloridaHealth.gov/HeartDisease #NationalHeartMonth

Intentionally preparing balanced, high-protein meals from whole food sources is a decision that fuels your body each day. For recommendations, explore the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. 🔗 bit.ly/4rS2tgl Have healthy eating habits become part of your normal routine? Celebrate your progress by letting us know how the Florida 50 has shaped your routine. 🔗 bit.ly/4qdz6Uo #TheFlorida50 @FLSurgeonGen

Earlier this month, @GovRonDeSantis, @CaseyDeSantis, and @FLSurgeonGen Dr. Joseph Ladapo announced new food safety results as part of the Healthy Florida First initiative. Certified lab results detected glyphosate, a widely used agriculture pesticide, in several bread products. View the full results to make informed choices for your family at exposingfoodtoxins.com/bread/.