Highmark SAE/PRI Wellness Assessment Results

In the most recent Highmark Wellness Assessment program, 90 SAE/PRI employees participated. The group, consisting of 26 men and 64 women, with an average age of 46, was tested and measured against the health norms and comparisons for this demographic.

The results below represent the top 5 health risks for SAE employees:

1. Cancer Risk Reduction (72% of SAE employees have high cancer risk)
These individuals could make lifestyle changes to significantly reduce their cancer risk. The National Cancer Institute has stated that most premature deaths from cancer could be prevented by lifestyle changes and regular preventative exams.

2. Better Nutrition (60% of SAE employees showed need for making nutritional changes)
Good nutrition is a positive step toward preventing heart disease, cancer, obesity, osteoporosis, and improving general health and resistance to disease.

3. Improving Fitness (59% of SAE employees showed need for improving fitness levels) Regular exercise is a positive lifestyle practice that helps prevent many serious health problems: heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and osteoporosis. It also helps ease tension and generally builds energy, self-worth, and motivation for other healthy practices such as not smoking and better nutrition. A good fitness program can form the foundation for a good health enhancement program.

4. Weight Management (54% of SAE employees are above their recommended weight range) Weight control is a commonly reported need. By losing or preventing excess weight, risk for heart problems cancer risk, hypertension, diabetes and other serious health problems can be prevented. Losing weight can also have a positive effect on self-image.

5. Managing Cholesterol Levels (41% of SAE employees had cholesterol over recommended levels) Lowering cholesterol levels can significantly reduce risks for heart disease. For every 1% cholesterol is lowered, the risk for heart disease drops by 2%. A program of nutritional education, dietary counseling, and medical referral is needed for these individuals.

Based on the above, The SWELL Committee is planning several programs, including this blog as well as the already-underway Eat Well for Life to help employees with reducing these risks. Keep posted for more information.