The U.S. Senate recently passed a resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Women’s Health Week. The event begins annually on Mother’s Day and, this year, concludes on May 17.

The resolution, introduced by Senators Russ Feingold (D-WI) and Olympia Snowe (R-ME) calls on all Americans to take use the celebration as an opportunity to educate themselves on women's health issues, also recognizing the importance of Federally funded programs that provide research into common diseases in women, like lupus. The S.L.E. Lupus Foundation is a partner of National Women’s Health Week.

Families, communities, businesses, government, health organizations and other groups can work together to educate women about steps they can take to improve their physical and mental health and prevent disease, according to the National Women’s Health Information Center, like:

• Engaging in physical activity most days of the week
• Making healthy food choices
• Visiting a healthcare provider to receive regular check-ups and preventive screenings
• Avoiding risky behaviors, like smoking and not wearing a seatbelt