Cancer is the second most common cause of death in Ohio and the United States, accounting for nearly one of every four deaths.¹  Early detection is key.

Colorectal Cancer:

• African Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups²
• Screening rates for colorectal cancer are only at 38% among African Americans³

The American Cancer Society recommends that average-risk men should start screening for colon cancer at age 45. If you are at higher risk, talk to your doctor to see if starting screenings earlier is right for you. Head to the American Cancer Society website for more information on risk factors.

According to the American Heart Association, about 55% of black adults have high blood pressure, also known as hypertension or HBP. Obesity and diabetes are two key factors that increase the rate for high blood pressure and heart disease. High blood pressure can lead to other conditions and even death when it is not controlled. HBP is a major risk factor for stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease. ¹

• Although African American adults are 30 percent more likely to have high blood pressure, they are less likely than non-Hispanic whites to have their blood pressure under control.²

Managing High Blood Pressure

Healthy lifestyle choices are the first step to managing your high blood pressure³:

• Know your blood pressure numbers – call Buckeye Member Services at 866-246-4358 to secure an at-home blood pressure monitor!
• Add physical activities to your weekly schedule
• Include a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low fait dairy
• Avoid smoking, and limit your alcohol intake
• Reduce your daily intake of sodium (salt) and saturated & trans fats
• Take your medications as prescribed by a doctor

Diabetes is chronic disease that affects how your body turns food into energy. According to the Ohio Department of Health, nearly 1 million Ohio adults have been diagnosed with diabetes¹.

How Does Diabetes Affect African American Populations²?

• In 2019, non-Hispanic blacks were twice as likely as non-Hispanic whites to die from diabetes.
• In 2018, African American adults were 60 percent more likely than non-Hispanic white adults to be diagnosed with diabetes by a physician.
• In 2019, non-Hispanic blacks were 2.5 times likely to be hospitalized with diabetes and associated long-term complications than non-Hispanic whites.
• In 2019, non-Hispanic blacks were 3.2 times more likely to be diagnosed with end stage renal disease as compared to non-Hispanic whites.

While there is no cure for diabetes, the disease can be managed more easily when detected early by a doctor. Losing weight, eating healthy food and being physically active can also help to manage diabetes. Visit the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website for more information on healthy food choices for diabetics.

Know Your Numbers – A1C

A1C numbers show your average blood glucose (blood sugar). This test can be used to diagnose diabetes, or diagnose prediabetes. Learn more about A1C and see what the numbers mean by visiting the National Diabetes Association website. 

Call your doctor today to schedule an appointment. Buckeye members earn $100 in My Health Pays® rewards for completing a diabetes comprehensive screening, including HbA1, kidney and retinopathy screenings once in the calendar year!