Women, This Is Your National Health Week

The Department of Health and Human Services has declared this week National Women's Health Week, and though I think every week should be devoted to women's health, it's nice to have this recognized widely as a priority. Even Congress has resolved that women need to be more aware of new tests, screenings, and preventive health measures that will keep them well. Here's a listing of events that are going on nationally and in your local area. I've highlighted two news items relevant to your health:

• New discounts for drugs women use: The grocery store chain Kroger this week added a number of women's health-related medications to its discount prescription drug program, the Tennessean newspaper reports. Similar to programs launched by Wal-Mart and Target, Kroger will sell a 30-day supply of several medications—including the breast cancer drugs tamoxifen and alendronate, as well as the generic version of the osteoporosis medication Fosamax—for $9, with a 90-day supply selling for $24. It also offers this discount for some generic birth-control pills.

• New Jersey enacts paid family leave: On May 2, New Jersey became the third state to pass paid family leave legislation. The measure requires employers to give workers up to six weeks a year of paid leave (at up to two thirds of their salary, capped at $524 per week) to look after family members, including newborns and adopted children. California and Washington are the other two states that have similar laws; Oregon and New York are expected to consider leave laws next year, according to the National Partnership for Women and Families.