Health Promotion

October is Know Your Numbers Month

Take Charge of Your Health—One Number at a Time

What Are the Key Health Numbers to Know?

1. Blood Pressure
   • Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
   • High blood pressure (hypertension) increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other chronic conditions, even when there are no symptoms.
   • Source: American Heart Association, 2025
2. Cholesterol
   • LDL (“bad”) cholesterol: Less than 100 mg/dL
   • HDL (“good”) cholesterol: 60 mg/dL or higher is protective
   • High LDL and low HDL levels are major risk factors for heart disease.
   • Source: NIH - National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
3. Triglycerides
   • Healthy range: Less than 150 mg/dL
   • High levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, especially when combined with low HDL or high LDL.
   • Source: CDC - Cholesterol
4. Blood Sugar (Glucose & A1C)
   • Fasting Blood Glucose: Less than 99mg/dL
   • Hemoglobin A1c: Less than 5.7%
   • High fasting glucose can indicate signs of insulin resistance or early diabetes. The hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. It's a key marker for diagnosing and managing diabetes.
5. Body Composition (BMI, Waist Circumference, Body Fat)
   • Body Mass Index (BMI) can help assess if one’s weight is in a healthy range relative to their height:

• Waist Circumference is a way to measure the presence of abdominal fat and its association with health risks—often more telling than BMI alone.

• Healthy body fat percentages vary by age, sex, and fitness level, but the table below indicates the optimal ranges for males and females:

Why These Numbers Matter

Over time, elevated numbers—even slightly—can silently lead to chronic diseases. According to the CDC and NIH:

• Nearly 1 in 3 adults has high blood pressure, but many don’t know it.
• 90% of adults with prediabetes are unaware of their condition.
• Early awareness and simple lifestyle changes (exercise, diet, stress management, sleep) can cut your risk of chronic disease in half.

Come See Us!

Throughout October, our MCCS Health Promotion team will be tabling at MCCS Fitness Centers across MCB Butler. Stop by to:

• Learn how to understand your health numbers
• Pick up free educational materials
• Get referrals for screenings or briefings
• Ask questions about nutrition, exercise, and more!

October is also Breast Cancer Awareness & Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness: Early Detection Saves Lives

• Start annual mammograms at age 40 (or earlier based on risk factors)
• Perform regular breast self-awareness checks
• Know your family history and talk to your provider
• Breast cancer caught early has a 99% 5-year survival rate (American Cancer Society)

Domestic Violence Awareness: Know the Signs. Reach Out.

• Abuse is not always physical, it can be emotional, verbal, or financial
• Support is confidential and available 24/7 through MCCS’s Family Advocacy Program
• Call 645-SAFE (7233) or 098-970-SAFE (7233) for immediate help
• Learn more: MCCS Victim Advocacy Program

Dance for a Cause

Join us for a special event in honor of Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness Month:
October 18
9:30–11:30 a.m.
Camp Foster Community Center
Come out for a high-energy morning of Zumba® and MixxedFit®, community support, and survivor recognition.

Take the First Step This October

Knowing your numbers isn’t just about labs, it’s about taking ownership of your health, honoring survivors, and building a stronger, more resilient community. Let’s move, measure, and support each other all month long.

For additional services and support, visit:
Prevention & Counseling – MCCS Okinawa