A local nutrition expert discussed the value of health screenings at the Health Awareness Lunch & Learn Series Friday, April 6, at Texas A&M University-San Antonio.
Debra Pierce, a registered dietitian who owns The Roaming Dietitian, said people should identify the health screenings recommended for them, understand what the results mean and locate resources to assist in improving their health.
“Learn to take control,” Pierce said, waving her fist in the air. She spoke to about 20-25 faculty and staff who attended the lecture hosted by the university’s human resources office.
Employers conduct screenings for employees because it benefits both the organization and the individual, Pierce said. The screenings help employees understand their current health state, help take control of their health and demonstrate the employers’ care for their employee’s health, well-being and improved morale.
Screening test charts for men and women were handed out along with a copy of Pierce’s PowerPoint provided by the U.S Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women’s Health.
The PowerPoint included different websites that can help users keep track of their health — anything from the BMI calculator, checking their waist circumference, to “The 39 Best Health and Fitness Apps of 2016.”
“I always have a hard time knowing what my results means, if it’s good or bad, so this helped me understand more, I need to be more proactive,” said Francy Leal, the coordinator for the event.
Pierce asked the audience what the No. 1 cause of death among adults was. She got answers back like, “cancer,” “diabetes” and “stroke,” but none seemed to be right. The answer she was looking for was heart disease.
“The leading cause of death in 2014 was heart disease, killed 614,348 people that year.”
There are benefits to knowing one’s numbers, and earlier detection is vital in preventing diagnosing, and treating cancers or serious disease. “
“I need to lose 30 pounds myself,” said Daniel Garza with the office of Procurement Services. “I came to see what I can do to change my weight habits. My biggest takeaway from today would be addressing my eating habits and now knowing I should do more exercise.”
For more information, email francy.leal@tamusa.edu
