February Awareness Month

Prioritize Your Health: National Cancer Prevention Month Tips

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Cancer continues to be a leading cause of illness worldwide, but the good news is that many cancers can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices, early detection, and proactive healthcare. This February, in honor of National Cancer Prevention Month, we’re highlighting key steps to help you lower your cancer risk and enhance your overall well-being.

Step 1: Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Living a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your cancer risk. Here’s how you can take charge:

  • Eat a balanced diet – Focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while cutting back on processed foods and added sugars.
  • Stay active – Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming.
  • Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco – Smoking is a major cancer risk factor, and alcohol use is linked to various cancers. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can have a huge impact on your health.
Step 2: Prioritize Screenings & Early Detection

Routine screenings can help detect cancer early, when treatment is most effective. Make sure to stay up-to-date on recommended screenings, including:

  • Mammograms for breast cancer detection
  • Colonoscopies for colorectal cancer screening
  • Pap smears for cervical cancer detection
  • Skin checks for changes in moles or new growth
  • Prostate screenings for men over 50 (or earlier if at higher risk)
  • Talk to your healthcare provider to determine which screenings are right for you based on your age, gender, and family history.
Step 3: Understand HPV & Cancer Risk

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus that can lead to certain cancers, including cervical, throat, and anal cancer. The good news? The HPV vaccine can prevent most of these cancers when administered at the recommended ages. If you or your family members haven’t been vaccinated, consider discussing it with your healthcare provider.

Step 4: Manage Stress & Prioritize Workplace Wellness

Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, increasing vulnerability to illness, including cancer. Managing stress effectively can boost your overall health:

  • Practice mindfulness – Meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can all reduce stress. If you’re new to mindfulness, YouTube has a wealth of guided sessions to help you get started. Stay tuned for upcoming wellness programs, too!
  • Get quality sleep – Aim for 7-9 hours per night to help your body stay strong and healthy.
  • Take breaks – Short walks, stretching, or simply stepping away from work for a few minutes can do wonders for your mental and physical well-being.
Your Health Benefits & Preventive Care

At Kalamazoo College, employee well-being is a top priority and key to creating a thriving community. We encourage you to take advantage of the following benefits aimed at supporting cancer prevention and early detection:

Outpatient Physician Services
  • Telemedicine E-Visits: Covered with $0 co-payment per visit and billed by Amwell. Use Service Key: ASRCOPAYWAIVED
  • Primary Care Provider Office Visits: $10 (orange plan) to $25 (black plan) co-payment per visit, with 100% coverage after the co-payment for in-network services.
  • Specialist Office Visits: $10 (orange plan) to $40 (black plan) co-payment per visit, with 100% coverage after the co-payment for in-network services.
Routine Preventive Care
  • Mammograms: 100% covered, with the deductible waived for routine mammograms. This includes other essential screenings like colonoscopies.
  • Flu Shots and Immunizations: 100% covered, with the deductible waived.
  • Preventive Screenings: Includes routine X-rays, and lab tests, all with 100% coverage for preventive services, including cancer screenings.

This February, make wellness a priority—schedule your preventive screenings and adopt healthier habits to safeguard your long-term health! For more details or to explore available wellness resources, reach out to Hr.Benefits@kzoo.edu.

References
  1. American Cancer Society: www.cancer.org
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov
  3. Kalamazoo College Healthcare Benefits: https://hr.kzoo.edu/benefits/healthcare/
  4. National Cancer Institute: www.cancer.gov

American Heart Month: Prioritizing Cardiovascular Health

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Your heart works hard for you every day—let’s return the favor! February is American Heart Month, and it’s the perfect time to focus on cardiovascular health. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., but many risk factors are preventable through routine screenings, healthy habits, and stress management.

Why Heart Disease?

preventable through lifestyle choices and early detection. American Heart Month serves as a reminder to take proactive steps toward better heart health, including:

  • Maintaining a Healthy Diet – Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing processed foods and added sugars. Pro-tip: Include food groups that make your plate as colorful as possible!
  • Staying Active – Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or yoga.
  • Managing Stress – Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling to reduce stress levels.
  • Routine Check-Ups – Regular health screenings can detect high blood pressure, cholesterol issues, or other heart disease risk factors early on.
How Benefits at K Relates

At Kalamazoo College, we are committed to supporting your well-being. As part of our employee benefits package, you have access to a variety of free preventive care services that can help you stay on top of your heart health:

  • Blood Pressure Screenings – High blood pressure is a silent risk factor for heart disease. Get checked regularly!
  • Cholesterol & Diabetes Testing – These screenings help detect early warning signs of heart disease.
  • Weight & Nutrition Counseling – Get guidance on heart-healthy eating habits.
  • Smoking Cessation Programs – Resources are available to help you quit smoking for good.
  • Mental Health Support – Managing stress is key to heart health. Counseling services are included in your benefits.
Next Steps

Your health matters—take a proactive step toward a stronger heart today! If you have any questions about your wellness benefits, reach out to hr.benefits@kzoo.edu.

🩺 Schedule Your Free Preventive Screenings
Make an appointment with your healthcare provider for your annual heart health check-up. Most screenings are fully covered under our preventive care benefits.

🚶 Join the 10K Steps a Day Challenge!
Stay active and reduce your heart disease risk by taking 10,000 steps per day. Track your progress and stay motivated with coworkers!

🥗 Explore Heart-Healthy Dining Options
Visit the cafeteria to check out heart-smart meal options that support cardiovascular health. Pro-Tip: Ensure your plate contains a colorful array of food.

💡 Learn More
Log in to asrhealthbenefits.com to review your preventive care benefits and find in-network providers for heart health screenings.

References
  1. American Heart Association. (2025). “Life’s Essential 8: Your Checklist for Heart Health.” Retrieved from www.heart.org.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). “Heart Disease Facts.” Retrieved from www.cdc.gov.