Calling All Men!

A Message from Dr. Stephen Kindred – Assistant Vice President, Corporate Medical

When asked how he stayed in such excellent shape over the course of his lengthy 15-year career, former Washington Redskin, and Hall of Fame wide receiver, Art Monk replied, "I never got out of shape."  Wellness is not simply a phase; it is a way of life. The sooner you can instill healthy habits and make them a part of your daily routine, the better chance you have of improved and continued health.

A survey from the American Academy of Family Physicians reports that men generally wait as long as possible before contacting their physician regarding a health concern. This is true in my practice as well. If you notice changes in your health or experience health concerns, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Kevin, AVP of Agency at Corporate says, "I listen to my body. Even if it is a minor pain, if it doesn’t feel right, I have it checked out. I also listen to my doctor’s advice and focus on taking care of myself.”

As men, our risk for heart disease, diabetes and cancer continues to increase as we get older. There is nothing we can do about that.  However, the earlier you establish healthy habits and make them a part of your routine, the better chance you have for continued health and well being. Statistics indicate the age at which men develop diabetes and heart disease is trending downward. Developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle takes time, effort and commitment, but it could save your life.

As a physician, I encourage my patients to take full advantage of the preventative screening benefits available through the health insurance plans offered to them. Cholesterol, blood glucose and diabetes screenings are among the preventative tests typically covered.  Be sure to take advantage of these benefits. Check your plan to learn more about the preventative care coverage available to you.

Preventative screenings are simple, extremely important, yet often overlooked. Early diagnosis of a minor health problem can prevent serious health issues later in life. “The preventative screening benefits we receive from State Farm are great.” Kevin agreed. “What could be easier than your employer reminding you to get tested?”

Kevin has maintained a healthy lifestyle through a good diet, regular exercise routine and preventative care. “It’s simple,” he says. “I love being healthy! It helps relieve stress, gives me a psychological boost and just makes me feel better.” Kevin balances daily cardio workouts with weight training, eats a variety of fruits and vegetables, and tries to stay away from fried foods.

“I also notice, as I am getting older, that my metabolism is slowing down and I now need to watch my portions,” Kevin noted. “I’ve learned to eat several smaller meals every 3-4 hours throughout the day.”

Packing healthy snacks, eating smaller portions and parking farther away are simple steps that can help you get started. Continue adding one new healthy habit each month. You’ll be amazed how much better you feel and how much more energy you’ll have.

“Having a schedule or routine is very helpful when trying to establish a new habit. You have to discipline yourself while listening to what your body tells you,” said Kevin.

Wellness is a habit for Kevin because he never lost the commitment to maintain it. But what about the men who stopped working out and developed poor eating habits?

Alan, an HR Representative in the Birmingham Operations Center, was one of those men. Like Kevin, Alan was also very active when he was in college. However, the responsibilities of working and having kids cut into the time he previously used for exercise.

“I stopped working out and didn't pay very close attention to what I was eating” said Alan. “I’m convinced that my bad habits contributed to my high blood pressure and high cholesterol.” Several years and several medications later, Alan realized it was time to take back his health.

“In February 2007, I started walking a mile every day, which eventually led to running. When I first started running I couldn’t even run a mile without stopping to walk. I knew I had to make some changes in my life, so I stayed committed to running and it has become something I really enjoy!”

By February of 2008, Alan ran his first half marathon, and he continues to work toward his next goal of competing in a full marathon.

“A large part of my success can be attributed to State Farm’s ‘Good Neighbor Healthy Living’ programs,” Alan says. “The six-week online ‘Healthy Heart’ and ‘Healthy Diet’ programs helped me set realistic goals and make the steady transition to a healthier lifestyle.”

Good Neighbor Healthy Living programs are available to associates in the Group Medical Plan.

Alan has lost fifty pounds, lowered his blood pressure and cholesterol, and his physician has taken him off all medications. He works out routinely and has changed his eating habits for the better.  
Although both Kevin and Alan have taken different paths to achieving their health goals, each of them attribute their success to a similar factor, “It’s a habit!” Both men understand that one of the most important steps in developing healthier habits is getting into a realistic routine.

This month, make a conscious effort to take a serious look at your physical health. Visit your doctor, try to incorporate healthier foods into your diet and set some attainable exercise goals. For many people, healthy living has its ups and downs. This month, and into the future, work wellness into your routine. Make it a habit and realize the benefits it will have on your future.

A healthier lifestyle is calling your name!

Additional Resources

The American Heart Association provides tips for exercise success.

Register for the 50 Million Pound Challenge under your zone team name.

How much activity is enough for weight management? Visit the Shape Up America! site for exercise suggestions and tips.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention created Physical Activity for Everyone to provide suggestions for adding physical activity to your life.

Becoming healthier isn't just about eating healthy – it's also about physical activity. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services provides helpful tips.

Men’s Health Checklist

Many of the major health risks that men face can be prevented and treated if they are diagnosed early. If you experience chest pain, frequent urination or other symptoms, contact your physician immediately. Take time to take better care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally.

• Cholesterol: Have your cholesterol checked regularly starting at age 35. If you are younger than 35, talk to your doctor about whether to have your cholesterol checked.
• Blood Pressure: Have your blood pressure checked at least every 2 years.
• Colorectal Cancer: Have a test for colorectal cancer starting at age 50. Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to be screened earlier.
• Prostate Cancer: Talk to your doctor about having a PSA blood level or digital rectal exam (prostate).
• Obesity: Have your body mass index (BMI) calculated to screen for obesity (BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight). You can also find your own BMI with the BMI calculator.
• Diabetes: Have a test for diabetes if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or a family history of diabetes.
• Depression: Taking good care of your emotional health is just as important as your physical health. Talk to your physician for more information.