A new month is upon us, and that means it’s time to read up on a new crop of diseases and issues plaguing the nation. So, grab a glass of lemonade, settle into your hammock, and be aware of the following 10 causes this summer.

Myasthenia Gravis Awareness Month – Approximately 20 people out of 100,000 are affected by myasthenia gravis, a condition characterized by fluctuating weakness of the voluntary muscle groups. You are now aware of this grave muscle condition.

Torture Awareness Month - Ever hear of torture? It exists, but the National Religious Campaign Against Torture wants it to stop.

PTSD Awareness Month – Speaking of torture, when a person experiences something awful, they’re at risk from suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). June is the time to think about this psychological issue, and how it affects American men and women, particularly soldiers.

National Safety Month - June is a time to be safe, and not slip, fall, break a bone, or otherwise injure yourself. Save the risky behavior for July. 

Men’s Health Month - Men, you have to pull double duty this month. Not only is June a time to be safe, but it’s also a time to be healthy.

National Aphasia Awareness Month – Aphasia is an acquired communication disorder that affects a person’s ability to process language. Be aware, however, that it does not affect intelligence.

National Scleroderma Awareness Month – Scleroderma is a skin condition affecting around 300,000 Americans. Be aware of this disease that causes hardening of the skin.

National Congenital Cytomegalovirus Awareness Month - Congenital Cytomegalovirus is a common virus that is harmless to most people, but dangerous to those with a weak immune system. Be aware that 1 in 150 children are particularly vulnerable to this virus which you can prevent by washing your hands.

Cataract Awareness Month - If you’re on the older side and you’re losing your vision, cataracts could be to blame. Be aware of this eye condition that causes clouding of the lens.

Entertainment Ratings and Labeling Awareness Month - The entertainment industry wants you to know that they rate movies, songs, and video games and that the ratings are important. Be aware that R-rated movies aren’t for children.

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