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Health Corner

Make 2025 the year to commit to health!

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January is the time we often make resolutions about many aspects of our lives: our jobs, relationships, finances, and hopefully our health too! Make 2025 the year you actually commit to making positive health changes for yourself and your family. Here are a few ideas to get you started!

(1). Start a realistic exercise program such as:
*Take a daily 30 minute walk.
*When the weather cooperates, think about walking/ engaging in activities in the local Martinak and Tuckahoe State Parks. To receive a copy of the Parks monthly activity schedule please call 410-820-1668.
* Join the ‘Y’ or other fitness organizations.

(2). Set attainable goals for weight loss (eliminating 500 calories a day= 1 lb per week)!

(3). Chose healthy foods for your family including fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy products. Eliminate sugary drinks and fried foods.

(4). If are Pre-Diabetic, the local health depts. In partnership with the Eastern Shore Area Health Education Center (ESAHEC) is offering in-person and virtual Diabetes Prevention Program classes at no cost to participants. Call 410-221-2600 or go online to esahec.org/dpp to find out more or to register.

(4). If you smoke or vape, consider quitting. This will improve your overall health, reduce your risk of lung and heart disease along with many types of cancer: throat, lung, breast, and colon to name a few! The Caroline County Health Dept. Smoking Cessation Program can provide resources for quitting and refer you to the Maryland Quit Line (fax to assist), to help you get started on quitting on YOUR time schedule.

(5). Are you due for your annual check-up with your primary physician or nurse practitioner? It is important to be seen at least once a year when you are WELL to ensure good health. Flu season is in full swing, and the COVID virus is still with us. Consider getting vaccinated against both to prevent health complications.

(6). Don’t put off those routine cancer screenings! Men and women should have a routine colonoscopy starting at age 45 (younger if symptomatic or a family history of colorectal cancer). Ladies, if you are over age 40 it is important to have a yearly clinical breast exam and mammogram to screen for breast cancer. Women over age 21 should get regular Pap and HPV co-testing to screen for cervical cancer. Consult with your primary care provider to see if you are due for screening this year.

For more information about all our programs and eligibility requirements, call the Wellness Promotions office @410-479-8080.