January 2021 - HMC Healthworks

Better You

Concept image of a Calendar with a yellow push pin. Closeup shot of a thumbtack attached. The words Change Habits written on a white notebook to remind you an important appointment.

We first make our habits, and then our habits make us. -John Dryden

Many Americans see the start of a new year as a time to evaluate their lives over the previous year. Evaluation can sometimes lead us to set lofty resolutions that rarely make it into February. Here are a few ways to make your resolutions into habits. And remember, any time you try to better your body, mind or spirit, it’s a good thing.

Be Realistic

Instead of trying to lose 50 pounds quickly, set small realistic milestones. Goals don’t always have to be about cutting out your favorite foods or spending countless hours at the gym. Focus on adding a positive new habit to your life. Creating positive and reachable goals builds confidence and increases the likelihood that you will stick with your new habit over time.

Give Back

Try increasing your quality time with family and friends or give back to your local community. These goals will fill your heart and hopefully last longer than vowing off chocolate or chips.

Work Together

Making changes can be easier with a friend or health professional in your corner. Friends and family can be great for accountability and for celebrating your success. If you prefer privacy with your goals, seek out online support groups, apps and you may have health coaches provided through your health insurance.

MEDIA CONTACT

Staci Rossi

SVP, Marketing & Communications

sdefazio@hmcebs.com

860.697.6960 x403

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

Thousands of women die from cervical cancer each year, but the disease is virtually always preventable with vaccination and appropriate screening (HPV vaccination & PAP tests).

Among women who had been vaccinated, the percentage of precancers caused by HPV dropped from 55.2% to 33.3%

Although women suffer from cervical cancer from HPV, men are also at risk for other cancers from HPV.

FACTS

Nearly 85% of adults (MEN and WOMEN) between the ages of 18 and 65 will have HPV at some point in their life. About 50% of Americans have it at any given moment.

HPV causes cervical, anal, oral, and other cancers in MEN and WOMEN.

HPV causes genital warts in MEN and WOMEN.

HPV is more prevalent in MEN than WOMEN in the U.S., although men often don’t have symptoms.

The HPV Vaccine is for MEN and WOMEN.

Prevent HPV cancers by getting vaccinated! Prevent genital warts by getting vaccinated!

Did you finish the vaccine series?

2 shots if before age 15.

3 shots if beginning at age 15-26.