CVS/pharmacy kicks off 2011 To Your Health program

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — CVS/pharmacy has announced the launch of the 2011 To Your Health program, offering free preventive health screenings at more than 800 events in communities across the country. The program is designed to help Americans determine their risk for chronic diseases and get them on a path to better health.

The program will get under way in Houston on March 5, and continue in Dallas, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Philadelphia, Chicago and Miami.

The To Your Health program will launch in seven markets with "The Makeover Mile" — a one-mile health walk led by medical and diet expert Dr. Ian Smith — to fight obesity and encourage Americans to lead healthier lifestyles.

"Exercise is an important way to combat weight gain and obesity, which can contribute to many chronic diseases," Smith stated. "'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."

Each To Your Health event will offer participating adults $150 worth of screenings for diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, bone density (osteoporosis) and vision. Doctor consultations and medication reviews with a CVS pharmacist are available. Dental and chiropractic screenings, along with referrals for mammograms and pap smears also are available in select locations.

In 2010, the To Your Health program detected health concerns in a significant percentage of participants. Of those screened:

• 34% had high cholesterol;


• 38% had a high to moderate risk of developing osteoporosis;


• 37% had hypertension; and


• 29% had diabetes, with more than half being diagnosed with diabetes for the first time.

"Early detection is critical to managing, and in some cases reversing, the effects of chronic diseases like diabetes," stated Troyen Brennan, chief medical officer for CVS Caremark. "CVS/pharmacy is committed to improving access to preventive care and ensuring that cost is not a barrier to these important health screenings."

Another way CVS/pharmacy is helping people manage chronic disease is through its ExtraCare Advantage for Diabetes program, offering members discounts and rewards on the purchase of diabetes supplies.