EDUCATION TRANSFORMING COMMUNITY HEALTH VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION @ UW
  • Home
  • About
  • Meet the Team
  • Getting Involved
  • Education
    • Abscesses
    • Alcohol Use and Misuse
    • Allergies
    • Bed Bugs
    • Cellulitis
    • COVID 19
    • Dental Health
    • Diabetes
    • Drugs and Addiction
    • Eye Health
    • Food Poisoning
    • Foot Health
    • Heat Emergencies
    • Heart Disease
    • Hepatitis
    • HIV
    • Hypothermia
    • Influenza
    • Menopause
    • Mental Health
    • Nutrition
    • Sexually Transmitted Infections
    • Skin Care
    • Smoking Cessation
    • Tuberculosis
    • Vaccines
  • Contact Us

Health Information Resources

Our health education is specifically designed for the unique challenges of homelessness, and our goal is for our repository to become a vital tool for helping individuals make informed decisions about their health while supporting a more equitable approach to community and public health outreach. All of our resources are provided as PDFs for easy accessibility - start printing them out and distributing them today!
DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, care, or consultations with qualified healthcare providers. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professionals regarding any medical condition or concerns. In case of a medical emergency, please contact a healthcare professional immediately. We do not assume responsibility for any outcomes based on the use of the information presented on this platform.
CONTENT
  1. Abscesses
  2. ​Alcohol Use and Misuse
  3. Allergies
  4. Bed Bugs
  5. Cellulitis
  6. COVID 19
  7. Dental Health
  8. Diabetes
  9. Drugs and Addiction
  10. Eye Health
  11. Food Poisoning
  12. Foot Health 
  13. Heat Emergencies
  14. Heart Disease
  15. Hepatitis
  16. HIV
  17. Hypothermia
  18. ​Influenza
  19. ​Menopause
  20. Mental Health
  21. Nutrition
  22. Sexually Transmitted Infections
  23. Skin Care
  24. Smoking Cessation
  25. Tuberculosis
  26. Vaccines
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Abscesses

An abscess is a painful, swollen area of tissue that fills with pus due to an infection. Abscesses can develop on the skin, known as skin abscesses, or internally within the body, referred to as internal abscesses. Skin abscesses often appear as red, tender bumps and can result from bacteria entering the skin through cuts, bites, or clogged hair follicles. Internal abscesses can occur in organs such as the liver, lungs, or even the brain, often resulting from a more serious infection.

Learn more about abscesses

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Alcohol Use and Misuse

Alcohol is one of the most widely consumed substances worldwide. While moderate alcohol use can be a part of social or cultural practices, excessive or irresponsible alcohol consumption can lead to significant health and social problems. Understanding the distinction between responsible and irresponsible alcohol use is crucial for promoting safer habits and preventing the negative effects of alcohol abuse.

Learn more alcohol use and misuse

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Allergies

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to substances, known as allergens, that are typically harmless to most people. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, insect stings, certain foods, and medications. Allergy symptoms can range from mild, such as sneezing and itching, to more severe reactions like hives, difficulty breathing, or even anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition.

Learn more about allergies

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Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals, typically while they sleep. Though bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, their presence can still cause significant health issues and discomfort.

Learn more about bedbugs

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Cellulitis
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Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin and the tissue beneath it. It is most often caused by bacteria entering the skin through cuts, abrasions, or other breaks in the skin barrier. Cellulitis can occur on any part of the body but is most commonly found on the legs, arms, or face.

Learn more about cellulitis

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COVID 19

COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It was first identified in late 2019 and rapidly spread worldwide, leading to a global pandemic. COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, but it can also spread through contact with contaminated surfaces.

Learn more about COVID 19

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​Dental Health

​Dental health is a critical aspect of overall wellbeing, affecting more than just your teeth and gums. Good oral hygiene—brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups—helps prevent common issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Poor dental health, however, can lead to more serious problems, including infections, tooth loss, and conditions like heart disease and diabetes, which have been linked to gum disease.

Learn more about dental health

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Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose), a key source of energy. There are two main types: Type 1 diabetes, where the body does not produce insulin, and Type 2 diabetes, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems.

Learn more about diabetes

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Drugs and Addiction

Drugs are substances that affect the body and mind in various ways, and they can be classified into different categories based on their effects and uses. Some drugs, like prescription medications, are designed for medical purposes to treat illnesses, manage pain, or improve mental health. However, when misused or taken without a doctor’s guidance, even prescription drugs can be harmful and lead to addiction or health complications.​

​Learn more about drugs and addiction
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Eye Health

Eye health refers to the condition of your eyes, including vision, clarity, and absence of pain or other symptom. If you’re worried you might be at risk for some eye diseases, talk to your doctor. You may be able to take steps to lower your risk.

Learn more about eye health



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Foot Health

Foot health is essential for maintaining mobility and overall wellbeing. Healthy feet support your body’s foundation, allowing you to walk, run, and perform daily activities comfortably. Common foot issues such as blisters, corns, fungal infections, or ingrown toenails can cause pain and discomfort if left untreated. More serious conditions like arthritis, flat feet, or diabetic foot problems can significantly impact mobility and lead to further complications.​

Learn more about foot health 

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Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is an illness caused by consuming contaminated food or drinks, typically due to bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. Common culprits include undercooked meat, improperly stored food, unwashed produce, and contaminated water. Symptoms of food poisoning often include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever, and can range from mild discomfort to severe illness requiring medical attention.

Learn more about food poisoning

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Heat Emergencies

Heat emergencies occur when the body becomes overheated, and they can range from mild heat exhaustion to life-threatening heatstroke. These emergencies typically happen during extreme heat conditions or prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially when coupled with dehydration.

Learn more about heat emergencies

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Heart Disease

Heart disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the heart's structure and function, making it one of the leading causes of death globally. The most common type is coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to a buildup of plaque (cholesterol and fatty deposits). This can lead to serious complications like heart attacks, heart failure, and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).

​Learn more about heart disease

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Hepatitis

Hepatitis refers to the inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections, but it can also result from alcohol abuse, toxins, medications, or autoimmune diseases. The liver is a vital organ responsible for processing nutrients, filtering toxins, and producing essential proteins, so inflammation can significantly impact overall health.

Learn more about hepatitis

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Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), a dangerous condition that happens when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Prolonged exposure to cold environments, such as icy water, freezing weather, or inadequate shelter, can lead to hypothermia.

Learn more about hypothermia



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Influenza
​

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It typically affects the nose, throat, and lungs, and spreads easily from person to person through droplets when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks. Influenza outbreaks occur most commonly in the fall and winter seasons.​

Learn more about influenza


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HIV
​

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells), which help the body fight infections. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), the most severe phase of the infection. While there is no cure for HIV, with proper medical care, it can be controlled, allowing individuals to live long, healthy lives.

Learn more about HIV

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​Menopause
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Menopause is when periods stop for good and is diagnosed after 12 months without a menstrual period, vaginal bleeding or spotting. Menopause usually happens around age 51 in the United States.

Learn more about menopause


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Mental Health 

Mental health refers to a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how individuals think, feel, and behave, and affects how they handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Good mental health is essential for overall well-being, while poor mental health can contribute to a range of disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

Learn more about mental health
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Nutrition

Nutrition is the process by which our bodies take in and utilize the food we eat to maintain health, support growth, and provide energy. A balanced diet, consisting of the right nutrients in proper proportions, is key to overall well-being.

Learn more about nutrition


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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

STIs are infections primarily spread through sexual contact. STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and they can affect anyone who is sexually active. Some common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes, and HIV/AIDS.
Learn more about STIs

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Skin Care

Skin care involves taking steps to maintain and improve the health and appearance of the skin, which is the body’s largest organ. 

Learn more about skin care



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Smoking Cessation

Smoking is linked to numerous serious health issues, including lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and chronic respiratory conditions. Stopping smoking significantly reduces the risk of these diseases, even if someone has been smoking for many years

Learn more about smoking cessation


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Tuberculosis (TB)

TB is caused by a bacterium and usually affects the lungs. TB can also affect other parts of the body, such as the brain, the kidneys, or the spine. TB can also affect multiple parts of the body at the same time.  


Learn more about TB

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Vaccines

Vaccines are a safe and effective way of protecting you against diseases before you come into contact with them. Vaccines use your body’s natural defenses to build resistance to specific infections and make your immune system stronger.

​Learn more about vaccines
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Local to Seattle? Check out these healthcare resources:

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  • Home
  • About
  • Meet the Team
  • Getting Involved
  • Education
    • Abscesses
    • Alcohol Use and Misuse
    • Allergies
    • Bed Bugs
    • Cellulitis
    • COVID 19
    • Dental Health
    • Diabetes
    • Drugs and Addiction
    • Eye Health
    • Food Poisoning
    • Foot Health
    • Heat Emergencies
    • Heart Disease
    • Hepatitis
    • HIV
    • Hypothermia
    • Influenza
    • Menopause
    • Mental Health
    • Nutrition
    • Sexually Transmitted Infections
    • Skin Care
    • Smoking Cessation
    • Tuberculosis
    • Vaccines
  • Contact Us