As we look forward to a new year, Natchitoches Regional Medical Center encourages our community to make their health a priority.
Focused on improving the health of Natchitoches Parish, the NRMC Foundation conducted a second comprehensive community health needs assessment as a follow-up to the assessment conducted in 2017. Working closely with area physicians, community health organizations, local agencies, churches, and NRMC Associates, the goal of the assessment was to identify and prioritize significant health needs of the community. Findings indicate Natchitoches parish scored low in categories that contribute to chronic health conditions and illnesses.
As a state, Louisiana ranked as the least healthy state, 50th out of 50, and in comparing the parishes within the state, Natchitoches ranked 46 out of 64 parishes. So, we have work to do.
The assessment showed our community has a high number of adult smokers, high obesity rates, and low physical activity – all which contribute to increased risks for cancer, diabetes and other diseases.
Starting at age 18, routine wellness exams and diagnostic tests are recommended. Tests include blood sugar level screenings to determine risk for pre-diabetes or diabetes. Repeating the wellness exam annually will help keep your health on track. If you have a family history of disease, your physician may recommend screenings earlier than the average age or may require additional or more frequent screenings.
Natchitoches Parish also had a higher cancer incidence rate than other Louisiana Parishes. Knowing the causes and limiting exposure to the cancer risk factors that can be controlled – such as diet, exercise, tobacco use and alcohol consumption, can decrease a person’s risk for cancer. Other factors, such as age, genetics and family history cannot be controlled; however, they can be closely monitored with regular screenings and exams, as mentioned above.
In order to improve the overall health of our community, it is important for everyone to state up to date with medical screenings and diagnostic exams and to listen to their body and get medical care when needed. Timely care and early detection can help prevent serious illnesses.
For a comprehensive list of screenings you need to stay healthy, visit https://www.nrmchospital.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/NRM-663-24-Health-Screenings-PR.pdf or speak with your primary care physician.
NRMC and our clinics are here to help you improve your health and thrive in 2025.
