Page 5 - March 6

M i n i s t ry O p p o r t u n i t i e s

Wellness Ministry Minute

March is Nutrition, Colorectal Cancer,

and Kidney Disease Awareness Month!

Overview

Nutrition
Good nutrition is essential in keeping current and future generations healthy across the lifespan. Poor
nutrition contributes to many costly diseases, including obesity, heart disease, and some cancers. Peo-
ple with healthy eating patterns live longer and are at lower risk for seri-
ous health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.
For people with chronic diseases, healthy eating can help manage these
conditions and prevent complications. MyPlate.gov is a great way to learn
more about basic nutrition.

45 is the New 50 for Colorectal (Colon) Cancer Screening
Colorectal (Colon) cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States. African Americans
have a greater risk of colon cancer than do people of other races. However, if detected early (localized
stage) the survival rate is 91%. The recommended age for screening was lowered from 50 to 45 be-
cause colorectal cancer cases are on the rise among young and middle-
aged people. Modifiable risk factors include high fat diet, sedentary life-
style, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use.

Kidney Disease: Building a Path to Better Kidney Care
37 million people in the United States are estimated to have chronic kidney disease (CKD). As many as
9 in 10 people are not aware that they have CKD. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure you are
at higher risk for developing kidney disease. As with most diseases, kidney disease can be deterred
with a healthy lifestyle such as managing your blood pressure, exercise, managing your weight, and
getting enough sleep.

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