The health effects of smoking are the circumstances, mechanisms, and factors of tobacco consumption on human health. Epidemiological research has been focused primarily on cigarette tobacco smoking, which has been studied more extensively than any other form of consumption, but all forms of tobacco use are dangerous.  Research has proven overwhelmingly that the regular use of tobacco can damage every part of the body.

Tobacco is the single greatest cause of preventable death globally. Tobacco use leads most commonly to diseases affecting the heart, liver and lungs, with smoking being a major risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (including emphysema and chronic bronchitis), and cancer (particularly lung cancer, cancers of the larynx and mouth, and pancreatic cancer). It also causes peripheral vascular disease and hypertension. The effects depend on the number of years that a person smokes and on how frequently the person smokes. Starting to smoke earlier in life and smoking cigarettes higher in tar increases the risk of these diseases. Cigarettes sold in underdeveloped countries tend to have higher tar content, and are less likely to be filtered, potentially increasing vulnerability to tobacco-related disease in these regions.

Also, environmental tobacco smoke, or secondhand smoke, has been shown to cause adverse health effects in people of all ages.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that tobacco caused 5.4 million deaths in 2004 and 100 million deaths over the course of the 20th century. Similarly, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes tobacco use as “the single most important preventable risk to human health in developed countries and an important cause of premature death worldwide.”

Quitting smoking may be difficult, especially for those individuals who have developed the habit of regular tobacco use.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina wants to encourage you to make the change.  A healthy lifestyle is the number one form of preventive care and one of the best things you can do for your body.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Eating healthy around the holidays is never easy, but don’t forget that a healthy diet is one of the most important parts of preventive care, which is something Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina believes in wholeheartedly.  In combination with physical activity, having a good diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of chronic diseases, like heart attack and cancer.  Furthermore, eating healthy promotes wellness and an overall feeling of well-being.  With the stress and busyness of the holidays in full swing, it’s easy to forget the importance of taking care of yourself; however, the link between good nutrition and a healthy body is too important to ignore.

Not only is a good diet important in maximizing your physical health, it is also important in maintaining mental health.  According to the American Psychological Association, stress can cause your body to seek sugar as quick fuel for a surge of energy.  For this reason, many people eat sweets when they are under an unusual amount of stress.  Instead of stress eating, a good exercise regime is a positive alternative for helping to reduce stress.  Also, look for healthy alternatives to holiday desserts high in sugar content.  Before starting any weight loss program, always consult your doctor first and get his/her clearance for physical activity and find out if there are any issues that would affect you participating in a new nutrition and fitness program.

Even during the holidays, you can maximize your  health through maintenance and prevention.   BCBSNC covers preventive care services at 100%, but you can do your part as well.  Maintaining a healthy diet is a huge part of becoming and staying healthy, even during the holidays.  Although this may not be the time to embark on a new diet plan, even small changes can go a long way.  Eating more fruits and vegetables, limiting your amount of sugar intake and staying hydrated are all simple, but effective ways to improve your daily diet.

This season, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina encourages you to make healthy eating a top priority and Jerrry Ballard and Associates wishes both you and yours happy, healthy holidays!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov if you qualify for a subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Fall has officially arrived and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina thinks autumn is a great time to eat your way to healthy.  Fall vegetables, especially root vegetables, abound this time of year and can easily become a part of your fall health regimen.  In addition to being delicious, vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, turnips, beets, radishes, onions and garlic contain significant amounts of vitamin C and beta-carotene, both of which help to clean the blood and prevent heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.  Because of the high amounts of antioxidants they contain, eating root vegetables can significantly improve your physical health, as well as improving your mental well-being.  The antioxidants contained in root vegetables help remove free-radicals and harmful toxins from your body, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, physically, mentally and emotionally.

In addition, most root vegetables are high in complex carbohydrates as well.  These carbohydrates break down into sugar in your body, giving you the energy and ability to function properly throughout the day.  Root vegetables are high in fiber, as well as being low in fat and calories, making them the perfect food for staying fit.  The high amounts of nutrients root vegetables absorb from growing underground will help satisfy your cravings for junk food, which in turn will help you lose excess weight.  The fiber in these vegetables also helps clean out your digestive system, increasing energy levels for an active lifestyle.

One of the great things about root vegetables is that they can be eaten year round and in almost any way imaginable, while still tasting great.  They add variety and flavor to soups, stews and casseroles and can also be eaten steamed or raw.  Eating root vegetables in their raw state will maximize the health benefits to your body and they are a great addition to salads, smoothies or vegetable juices.  For recipe ideas click here.

BCBSNC is committed to preventive care on every level and a big part of prevention is maintaining a healthy diet.  In fact, every health plan Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina offers covers at 100%  screening, counseling and management for obesity in both adults and children, including nutrition counseling.  (Review the summary of benefits and coverages for more information).  This year, make fall a season for nutritious eating by adding a variety of delicious root vegetables to your daily diet… and eat your way to healthy!

Before starting any weight loss program, always consult your doctor first and get his/her clearance for physical activity and find out if there are any issues that would affect you participating in a new nutrition and fitness program.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage in North Carolina, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Very likely you’ve seen the breast cancer awareness slogan that says, “FIGHT LIKE A GIRL!” and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina wants you to know that when it comes to fighting breast cancer BCBSNC is in your corner, offering preventive care, including mammograms, covered at 100%.  Much like boxing, or any sport for that matter, the key to victory is a successful game plan and according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, having a preventive plan in place is the key to reducing risk.

A good breast cancer preventive plan includes self breast exams, as well as having clinical exams performed by a health care professional on a regular basis.  For women over 40 and women under 40 with high risk factors, an annual mammogram is also very important.  In addition to these medical preventions, however, there are other daily habits that can help in your fight against breast cancer.

Reducing your Risk Involves the following daily habits:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay physically active
• Eat fruits and vegetables
• Do not smoke
• Limit alcohol consumption

These daily habits as well as a good medical prevention plan are the key to success in the fight against breast cancer.  Also, as you “fight like a girl,” remember that Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is in your corner.

Before starting any weight loss program, always consult your doctor first and get his/her clearance for physical activity and find out if there are any issues that would affect you participating in a new nutrition and fitness program.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage in North Carolina, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Did you know that walking will not only trim your waistline, but also improve your health?  It’s true.  You can actually walk your way to wellness.  Physical activity doesn’t need to be complicated and something as simple as a daily brisk walk can help you live a healthier life.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC promotes physical fitness and an active lifestyle, resulting in less health problems and a healthier you.

BCBSNC is committed to making sure you are as healthy as you can be and preventive care and wellness maintenance are a big part of every BCBSNC health plan.  Simple, low impact, and highly effective, walking is a wonderful way to stay well!

Keep in mind that the faster and farther and more frequently you walk, the greater the benefits.  It is also important to consider your technique when walking your way to health and fitness.  Turning your normal, everyday stride into a fitness walk requires good posture and purposeful movements.  Also, don’t forget that walking with a friend or even your pet is not only a good safety measure, but also good to help keep you motivated to maintain a fitness routine.

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Stress is a normal psychological and physiological response to the ever-increasing demands of daily life.  Surveys show that many Americans suffer from stress at some point during the year and is it any wonder?  Managing the pressures of work, home and family can be taxing to say the least and the stress created can take a toll on both body and mind.  For that reason, stress management is an increasingly important part of preventive care, and BCBSNC is committed to making preventive care a top priority.

In looking at the causes of stress, remember that your brain comes hard-wired with an alarm system for your protection.  When your brain perceives a threat, it signals your body to release a burst of hormones to fuel your capacity for a quick response, often called the “fight-or-flight” response.  Once the threat is gone, however, your body is meant to return to a normal, relaxed state.  Unfortunately, the nonstop stress of modern life means that your alarm system rarely shuts off.   Without stress management, your body oftentimes remains on high alert and over time, high levels of stress can negatively affect your health, quality of life or relationships.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina understands the importance of stress management in maintaining good health.

One way to manage stress effectively is to practice relaxation.  In fact, developing relaxation techniques is an essential part of stress management.  If you are an overachiever, you may put relaxation low on your priority list, but don’t shortchange yourself.  Purposeful relaxation intended to recharge your mind and body is widely recognized as an important habit of highly effective individuals.  Common relaxation techniques include meditation, tai chi and yoga, but there are more active ways of achieving relaxation as well.  For example, walking outdoors or participating in sports activities can also help reduce stress and create a more relaxed mind and body.  No matter which relaxation technique you choose, it is important that you select a technique that works for you and one that you can practice regularly to help reduce stress.

Taking a positive step toward stress free living will get you one step closer to a healthy lifestyle and that makes BCBSNC smile.  Get your free rate quote now and enjoy all the benefits of becoming a member of BCBSNC.

For more information on health insurance coverage in North Carolina, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our professional agents. Our agency provides coverage for health insurance in North Carolina through Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC). It would be our pleasure to help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of Obamacare. Call us for details.

Perhaps you’ve been noticing a few more pink t-shirts than normal.  Or maybe, your favorite NFL quarterback is sporting a pair of pink running shoes.  That’s because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is proud to support women’s health.  In fact, preventive care, including mammograms, is covered at 100% in every BCBSNC health plan available.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, preventive care is the key to successful treatment of breast cancer.  Early detection is the number one life saving measure and when breast cancer is detected in its early stages, the 5-year survival rate is 98%.  For this reason, every person should know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and be proactive in having any abnormalities screened by a healthcare professional.

Regular screening for breast cancer is imperative as your doctor can check for signs of breast cancer before you have any noticeable symptoms.  Mammograms can often show a lump in the breast before it can be felt.  Women 40 years old and older should have 1 mammogram every 1 or 2 years and women younger than 40 who have risk factors for breast cancer should ask their healthcare professional whether mammograms are advisable and how often they should get one. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina makes this easy and affordable by offering 100% preventive care coverage.

Because early detection is the key to successful treatment, it is important for every woman to have an early detection plan.  This plan should include performing monthly self breast exams, regularly visiting your doctor for scheduled clinical breast exams, and following your healthcare provider’s recommendation guidelines for mammograms, which depends on age and health history.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina supports women’s health and the fight against breast cancer.  Join the BCBSNC family and discover why when it comes to preventive care and early detection, Blue is the new pink!

For more information on health insurance coverage in North Carolina, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our professional agents. Our agency provides coverage for health insurance in North Carolina through Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC). It would be our pleasure to help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of Obamacare. Call us for details.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” – Benjamin Franklin

Preventive Care is  the single most effective way to maintain health and wellness and that is why Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is committed to providing customers with preventive health care options that are covered at 100% on every health plan available, including Blue Advantage, Blue Value and Blue Select, and Blue Local.

A leader in the industry for preventive care, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina was the first health insurer in the nation to cover physician office visits and diagnostic tests and to treat obesity as a primary condition.  They led the way in offering co-payment waivers for generic drugs, providing free nutritionist visits and rewarding North Carolina residents for routine physical activity.  Preventive Care includes all medical services related to the prevention of disease, provided by or upon the direction of a doctor or other provider and includes routine physical checkups, mammograms, colonoscopies and many other wellness exams, as expressed in the preventive care guidelines.  For a complete list of preventive care services click here.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina understands the power of prevention and they are pleased to provide customers with the coverage you need to stay well.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina insurance coverage, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.