St. Mary's Parish Nurse Ministry Program
Ruth E. Williams, RN, MEPD, MSN

Dear Viewers, Peace be to all in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. "In all ways acknowledge Him, and he shall direct your paths" (Proverbs 3:6). This month of February is noted for St. Valentine's Day and National Heart Month. Let us focus on the concepts of prevention and health promotion in an effort to bring effective life style changes in 2003.

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Hopefully, most of the New Year resolutions made will concentrate on the health of mind, body and soul. Health promotion aims at enhancing wellness in health human development throughout the life span through education and encouraging behavior changes or changes in the environment. Healthy People 2010(USDHHS) agenda for the nation has two major goals: to increase the quality and years of healthy life and to eliminate health disparities. Some of the leading health indicators are:osteoporosis, cancer, diabetes, environmental health, heart disease and stroke, HIV. obesity and overweight, tobacco use, substance abuse and immunization. Some of the health protection strategies are making use of the preventive services as counseling, screenings, and immunizations. Also, consumers need to be involved in their health care with their health providers. Screenings such as blood pressure are often at no cost at the local public health office. Osteoporosis prevention should be of concern to all young and old consumers. Largely post menopausal white women are unaware that they have brittle bones. This segment of the population should seek help from their health provider for the osteoporosis screening. The younger population needs to concentrate on the amount of calcium in their diets and exercise. Women of other races and ages, as well as men could be at risk for osteoporosis. Another screening is the colorectal to prevent colon cancer. Consult with your health care provider. Diabetes and Heart Disease have specific screenings through blood tests prescribed through medical tests. All of these can be discussed with your physician or health care provider. Primary prevention refers to healthy actions taken by the consumer such as smoking cessation, exercise classes, parenting classes, healthy nutrition, and mental health programs. Also, make use of health columns, web sites, and educational programs. Secondary prevention includes screenings and early detection for potential health problems. Examples of secondary prevention used by the health care providers are screening procedures for high blood pressure and mammograms. "There are many plans in a man's heart, nevertheless the Lord's counsel;that will stand." (Proverbs 19:21)