By Ruth Ferguson
NDG Editor
Historically, blacks and Latinos are disproportionately impacted by high blood pressure, diabetes and heart problems. That is why Dr. Ian Smith and CVS/pharmacy stores are partnering to host free health awareness events around the country.
Smith is leading “The Makeover Mile” this Saturday, March 12. “The Makeover Mile” – a 1-mile community health walk will begin at 11 a.m. at Kiest Park and end at the CVS/pharmacy, 2323 W. Illinois Ave. where the pair is hosting “To Your Health” activities until 4 p.m.
“This is literally a free opportunity – and great opportunity – to turn their life around,” Smith shared during a telephone interview last week. The health fair at the CVS store will include not only free health screenings but fitness demonstrations and healthy cooking demonstrations.
“Exercise is an important way to combat weight gain and obesity, which can contribute to many chronic diseases,” Smith said. “’The Makeover Mile’ walk will encourage people to get out and take active steps toward better health. The ‘To Your Health’ screenings will give adult participants critical information about their health status and risk for chronic disease.”
Smith has served as the medical/diet expert for six seasons on VH1’s highly-rated Celebrity Fit Club, is the creator and founder of The 50 Million Pound Challenge and is a medical contributor on the nationally syndicated television show, Rachael Ray. Smith was recently appointed by President Barack Obama to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. He is also the author of eight books, including the New York Times Bestsellers, The Fat Smash Diet, The Extreme Fat Smash Diet and The 4 Day Diet. His eighth book, EAT, will be available in April 2011.
Smith launched the popular 50 Million Pound Challenge program in April 2007 after seeing several studies declaring the rampant obesity problem in the country.
“What can we do rather than just tell them? What can we do proactively to get Americans to begin making healthier choices,” Smith said.
This led him to develop online resources and seek out key strategic partners. Smith believes the “To Your Health” events offered by CVS last year were a good fit for the objectives of the 50 Million Pound Challenge. More than 800 health events are slated throughout the country for 2011.
When asked what are his proudest achievements of the 50 Million Pound Challenge program so far, Smith cited 1.8 million registered program participants, more than 6 million pounds lost and lower blood pressure for participants. Smith said he receives satisfaction when individuals share their success story with him during events around the country.
Despite the achieved success, Smith acknowledges challenges remain before realizing the goal of a healthier African-American population. These barriers include lack of awareness about the current state of their health; options to facilitate improvement; and resources available to manage chronic conditions.
“People need to be informed on how to make the proper choices. They need access to health care,” he said.
Smith is also hopeful the CVS “To Your Health” fair following the walk will provide much needed motivation to jump start a healthier regiment for participants.
The launch of Makeover Mile in Houston last weekend signaled the beginning of the next phase of the 50 Million Pound Challenge program. Learning more about their health risks is a key component of the Makeover Mile events. “To Your Health” attendees are offered more than $150 worth of health screenings, including eye exams, blood pressure checks and cholesterol screenings.
Osteoporosis is not a condition commonly discussed in the African-American community but Smith believes it is something the community should be concerned about. He indicated, “We should take the necessary bone density screenings.” These will be available at the health fair Saturday.
Although health screenings are not available for children, they are invited to enjoy face painting and age appropriate activities designed to increase their awareness of healthy living options.
Once the event is over, the push for awareness and improved health does not end. CVS will host more than 80 events throughout DFW between now and November. These events will help individuals determine their risk for chronic diseases and provide resource information.
To learn more about “To Your Health” activities planned call 1-888-604-0333 or visit www.cvs.com/toyourhealth. Information regarding the Makeover Mile or to register, visit www.makeovermile.com. or www.twitter.com/makeovermile. Participants who pre-register are eligible for prizes to be distributed at the event.
