Meridian and Lauderdale County residents are invited to kick off the new year learning the importance of knowing their health numbers.

One of the first steps to improving health is knowing important health numbers, said  Dr. Sarah Anderson, a doctor of osteopathic medicine at Meridian Medical Associates.

 

“If we know our numbers, we can take action to reduce chances of developing heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses,” Anderson said. “We can control and even lower our risk of major illnesses by knowing the target numbers for cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and Body Mass Index.”

 

Anderson will be January’s presenter at the Lunch and Learn event hosted by the Community Health Improvement Network. The event is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 24, at noon at NorthPark Church, 7770 Highway 39 North.

 

“This kicks off our 2025 community health education events sponsored by CHIN in partnership with Meridian area organizations, churches and hospitals,” CHIN President Bevery Knox said.

 

The event will cover discussion about:

• What healthy ranges look like.

• How to manage blood sugar, cholesterol and more.

• Tips for maintaining optimal health.

 

“These conversations between community residents and medical professionals at our Lunch and Learns inform and educate our community, which can help stop and prevent more serious illnesses,” Knox said.

 

Health screenings will also be available at the event. Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP by Wednesday, Jan. 22, by calling 601-483-2661.