(StatePoint) For over a year we have been living in a prevention mindset, avoiding coronavirus exposure at all costs. Unfortunately, for many, this new way of life has also meant avoiding healthcare settings and delaying medical care for other serious health threats, including bladder cancer.

(StatePoint) With metrics for COVID-19 improving, many companies are starting to consider returning to work in person. But most employees and employers agree it won’t look like it did before.

(StatePoint) Silicosis, a type of lung disease caused by breathing in tiny bits of silica, mainly affects workers in jobs such as construction and mining. Over time, exposure to silica particles causes scarring in the lungs, which can harm your ability to breathe.

(StatePoint) Having kids can mean having a lot of stuff, not all of which is made from eco-friendly materials. However, if you’re like many parents, you want your children to have a clean, healthy planet to live in when they grow up. Going green while parenting might sound challenging, but it’s definitely not impossible. These tips and insights can help get you started:

(StatePoint) While comfort will continue to reign supreme for clothing and accessories in 2021, when it comes to footwear, there are a variety of fun fashion trends that make a statement. The good news is that there’s no need to overhaul your entire closet. And it’s easier than ever to incorporate on-trend pieces into a comfortable and casual outfit.

(StatePoint) Many people prioritize skin protection when spending time outdoors, but skin damage from UV rays and free radicals can occur inside too. Consider these tips and insights this summer:

(StatePoint) From heat waves to fireworks, summer can take a toll on pets’ emotional and physical wellness. According to some pet experts, the heart of relief for a number of common seasonal pet woes is CBD. Here are some insights into how to use it, plus additional measures you can take for a safe, healthy summer with pets.

(StatePoint) If you’re like many Americans, your family has spent the past year discovering -- or rediscovering -- the joys of vacationing in the great outdoors.

(StatePoint) With warm weather, longer days, and more free time, it’s easy to find ways to stay fit in summer without a gym. And while you may squeeze in a solo workout here and there, making fitness a social activity can keep participants motivated and accountable.

(StatePoint) Climate-related crises like rising sea levels, severe weather events and longer drought seasons are challenging the global economy. They’re also driving the launch of new clean technologies.

(StatePoint) What does Earth Day have to do with veterans suffering from psychological trauma brought about by their combat experience? A lot, actually.

(StatePoint) Experts predict allergy season to be exceptionally severe this spring, according to the Allergy & Asthma Network. Rising global temperatures and a forecast of warm, dry air this spring after a winter of heavy snow could significantly increase pollen production. This comes after a year many people spent mostly indoors in quarantine.

(StatePoint) While the tireless work of medical professionals, teachers and grocery store workers has rightfully been celebrated throughout the pandemic, you may be less familiar with the work of housing counselors. During a challenging year that exacerbated the U.S. housing crisis, those close to the situation say that housing counselors are the pandemic’s unsung heroes.

(StatePoint) In the market for a car? If you’re planning on purchasing a used vehicle, you’re in good company.

(StatePoint) With unemployment rates nearly twice as high as their pre-pandemic levels reported in February 2020, the prospect of starting a new career after age 50 may seem unrealistic. However, industry experts say that it’s actually a great time for those in this age bracket to consider making the leap.

(StatePoint) April is Global Volunteer Month, a time to recognize the power of volunteers to tackle society’s greatest challenges.

(StatePoint) More than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s becoming clear that some patients who recover may take longer to feel like themselves than others.

(StatePoint) While the rollout of the vaccine has been a relief for the nation’s teachers, many of whom have been working in-person on and off since the start of the pandemic, the reality is that not everyone will get the vaccine. What’s more, being in the school building all day with children who are not yet approved for immunization leaves many educators and school staff vulnerable to COVID-19, no matter how many precautions they take while off the clock.

(StatePoint) Music is a mood booster and can help promote mental health. This past year has been particularly challenging, inspiring many people to reap the many benefits of bringing more music into their homes. Here is how you can too:

(StatePoint) Windows let in light and fresh air and can provide breathtaking views, but it’s vital to observe window safety, especially when young children are in the home, say experts.

(StatePoint) If you contribute a portion of your income to a 401(k), you may think you’re all set for a comfortable retirement. Experts say it’s important to take a closer look at these savings.

(StatePoint) Spring is the official start to bug season, making it important to prepare your home. Here are four steps you can take you keep bugs at bay:

(StatePoint) When it comes to the emotional well-being of students post-pandemic, a new study reveals that teachers expect significant challenges when schools make a full return to in-person learning.

(StatePoint) By now, you’ve heard about 5G or might have access to it on your smartphone, but do you know what it is, how it works or what it can do for you?

(StatePoint) 3M Sponsored Content.

(StatePoint) Daylight Saving Time (DST) is here, which means you are operating on a brand new schedule. Unfortunately, time changes can cause many negative physical and mental effects on the body -- and be a logistical nuisance to boot! To make DST work for you, consider the following tips:

(StatePoint) When it comes to recycling, you may not often think about something as small as your contact lenses. Did you know, though, that 45 million Americans who wear contact lenses flush anywhere between 1.8 and 3.36 billion lenses down the toilet or sink per year? As a result, contact lenses could be contributing to the trillions of microplastics in waterways that can harm marine wildlife and even enter our food supply.

(StatePoint) The increased time spent at home during the pandemic has resulted in many people deciding to tackle home renovation projects. From creating a new office space or virtual learning area, to larger projects like bathroom renovations, many homeowners are rolling up their sleeves to do the improvements themselves.

(StatePoint) Since its founding in 1941, the USO has provided generations of service members and their families with crucial support. During that 80-year history, the world, the military and the needs of service members changed. The USO also adapted, adjusting and expanding its operations to help boost their morale and keep them connected to home.

(StatePoint) More than 2.7 million American children are growing up in grandfamilies -- families in which grandparents, other adult family members, or close family friends are raising children. A new report highlights how the pandemic has amplified their unique challenges, and offers solutions to better serve them.

(StatePoint) Plastic contributes to climate change and is a major pollutant, harming wildlife and people. With Earth Day around the corner, here are a few tips for reducing your plastic footprint at home that will also contribute to a healthier planet.  

(StatePoint) Proper oral care is essential to overall wellness. Here are a few tips and strategies for each stage of your child’s development:

(StatePoint) Plastic pollution is not just an eyesore. According to environmental experts, it also affects marine species, accelerates climate change and adversely impacts human health, particularly in low-income communities near plastic production sites, which face greater exposure to toxins and waste and bear the brunt of the impacts of improper plastic disposal and incineration. A new report highlights the role supermarkets play in the plastic pollution crisis.

(StatePoint) Running a household on a budget? Smart shopping strategies can help your family save on favorite foods, wellness essentials and more.

(StatePoint) More than 500,000 Americans have died from COVID-19 and there have been more than 28 million cases nationwide. Doctors say it’s vital that Americans get vaccinated when it’s their turn, and continue to take precautions against infection.

(StatePoint) If you are like many consumers, it’s important to you that you are stocking your pantry and refrigerator with foods, beverages and wellness products your family will love. However, being a careful shopper is particularly tricky these days, as you are likely getting in and out of the supermarket in a hurry or even staying home and ordering items online.

(StatePoint) While life around the globe has changed significantly since the  Peace Corps was founded 60 years ago, the agency’s mission to promote world peace and friendship between Americans and people around the world has not.

(StatePoint) Working or learning from home? It’s more important than ever to ensure you move throughout the day. Doing so will help keep your mind and body healthy and agile. Here are a few tips to move more throughout the day.

(StatePoint) As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many older adults are following the advice of public health experts and remaining at home to limit risk of exposure. Bad weather conditions can also keep people inside for days at a time. But a strong body and mind are as important as ever, and the good news is being indoors doesn’t mean having to give up on exercising.

(StatePoint) With the start of 2021 behind us, it’s time to start fresh, create new habits and take on new skills. Whether your goal is to get outdoors more to enjoy the fresh air or to learn a new instrument, develop a plan to start enjoying some COVID-safe activities. Here are a few tips to get going:

(StatePoint) If we’ve learned anything from 2020, it’s that life can be unpredictable. Having sufficient life insurance can provide financial stability and security to loved ones during times of uncertainty.

(StatePoint) As more Americans get vaccinated against COVID-19, you may find yourself out and about more. Whether you’re returning to the workplace or just getting a haircut, mask requirements may be in place in certain venues you frequent.

(StatePoint) Spring is a great time to refresh your home. Whether you’re planning a major clean sweep or just giving problem areas a little extra TLC, experts say that a few simple strategies will make the job easier and the fruits of your labor last longer.

(StatePoint) As the weather warms, there are a few maintenance tasks every homeowner should consider completing. Use this checklist as your guide:

(StatePoint) While no one wants to dwell on worst-case scenarios, the last year has in many ways illustrated that there are no certainties in life. Preparing your home to handle a wide range of emergency scenarios will offer you peace of mind now and keep your family safe in the future.

(StatePoint) With the pandemic continuing to disrupt routines, you may have growing anxieties about how the extended crisis will affect your child’s social and emotional health long-term.

(StatePoint) Despite safety efforts and countless resources spent, factories, warehouses and labor union workers are continuing to be hit hard by COVID-19. As the vaccine slowly rolls out nationwide, ensuring that viruses can’t spread through surface contact remains a crucial component in keeping America’s workforce safe. New technology can help.

(StatePoint) With the roll-out of the vaccine taking place slowly, it may be awhile longer before life returns completely to normal. However, if you have been working remotely, it may be a good idea to reincorporate some of the elements of your regular routine into your schedule now.

(StatePoint) As the pandemic continues to restrict many of the places you are able or inclined to go, finding ways to stay active is important for keeping the body and mind healthy and happy. Here are some ideas for new hobbies to try.

(StatePoint) 2020 was more than just a health crisis, it had ripple effects on nearly every aspect of our lives, including our long-term financial plans.

(StatePoint) Social isolation among seniors is not only linked to numerous negative health consequences like depression and cardiovascular disease, but it’s also a primary contributing factor in financial exploitation and scams. Estimated to affect one in 10 older adults and cost billions annually, the threat of elder financial fraud is pervasive, and especially so right now.

(StatePoint) Is “quitting smoking” on the top of your list of goals for the year? Was it last year too? Here are some insights from those in the know into kicking this habit to the curb for good.

(StatePoint) Thinking of remodeling your home? From safety and security to product and contractor selection, there are many factors to consider.

(StatePoint) Each year, millions of Americans get sick from “seasonal influenza” (“the flu”). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 38 million people got sick with the flu during the 2019-2020 flu season. The flu is more dangerous than the common cold and children are at higher risk for developing serious complications. More than 12 million children under the age of 18 were diagnosed with flu last year, and of those children diagnosed, more than 52,000 were hospitalized. However, there are preventive steps parents can take to protect their children and family from the flu.

(StatePoint) When it comes to keeping your home healthy, safe and clean, it’s all about balance. Using the following tips, you can make 2021 the year you perfect your cleaning technique affordably:

(StatePoint) Afterschool programs help students succeed in school and in life and provide invaluable support to communities. As we’ve seen this year, these programs play an especially important role when students, families, and communities are struggling.

(StatePoint) With screen time on the rise for kids and adults, it may be time for your family to establish a healthier relationship with its digital devices. Here are some great ideas for getting started.

(StatePoint) Parents of children enrolled in afterschool programs are happier with their participation than ever before, according to a new study. At the same time, there aren’t nearly enough programs available, and students from low-income families are the most likely to lack access. For every child in an afterschool program today, three more are waiting to get in.