What kinds of health problems are linked to excess weight?

What kinds of health problems are linked to excess weight?

• type 2 diabetes
• high blood pressure
• heart disease and strokes
• certain types of cancer
• sleep apnea
• osteoarthritis
• fatty liver disease
• kidney disease

The table and graph below illustrate the significant increase in the percentage of overweight males in the 35-44 years category.

*Body mass index (BMI) equals weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared.

*Age-adjusted to the year 2000 standard population using five age groups:20-34 years,35-44 years, 45-54 years, 55-64 years, and 65 years and over.

Closely linked to weight issues, is lack of physical activity.  

Recommendations from the CDC are as follows:

Recommended

Scenarios Aerobic Activity Amount/Week

Muscle Strengthening   Frequency/Week

1. Moderate Intensity  - 2 hours,30 minutes - All major muscle groups - 2 or more days

2.Vigorous Intensity - 1 hour, 15 minutes - All major muscle groups - 2 or more days

3. Combined Intensity - Up to 2 hours,30 minutes - All major muscle groups - 2 or more days

Proper nutrition also plays an important part in maintaining a healthy weight.  Here are the guidelines for the average adult daily 2000 calorie intake:

• 6 ounces of whole grains,
• 2 and ½ cups of vegetables,
• 2 cups fruit,
• 3 cups low fat dairy, and
• 5 and ½ ounces of lean protein

With diligent efforts to keep active and eat properly any man can optimize his chances for good

Appealing a Medicare Denial

If you have received a claim denial from your Medicare contractor you do have the right to submit an appeal.  If you do not take assignment on the claim, your appeal rights can be limited. Clerical reopeningSee section at the bottom on Clerical Reopening when an appeal is not indicated.

• MLN Preventive Services Educational Products for Health Professionals

• CMS Prevention website

• CMS Immunizations website

• MLN National Provider Calls and Events website

• Men’s Health Month website

Men's Health Week

The week leading up to Father’s Day, June 10-16, is National Men’s Health Awareness Week.  It is a time to focus on getting and/or keeping yourself or the man in your life healthy.  Weight-related diseases are a growing cause of men’s health issues.