Health Update: Health Update: Thomas Massaro: The Board of Health reports on CAHM physical wellness – What Experts Say– What Experts Say.
1. Introduction
Physical wellness is probably the first thing that comes to mind when two friends exchange “How are you?” greetings when they meet. And the Board of Health certainly sees addressing physical wellness of the town as one of its highest priorities. The Board is grateful for the 2553 response to the related question and comments on the CAHM survey.
We have added some demographic data from state data sources to try to provide a broader picture of physical wellness in our town. We are pleased that the results reflect a community making thoughtful, healthy choices. Overall, our town’s physical health outcomes are slightly better than those seen across the state and the nation
0. Exercise
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week, plus at least two days of muscle-strengthening exercises for all major muscle groups with the lower end being realistic for most seniors. Marbleheaders are doing well with more than 50% of all responders > 40 exercising 5 or more times each week and the under 40 crowd doing 3 or 4 days of probably more intense workouts. In addition to this exercise question, the write-in comments certainly emphasized improvements in the sidewalks and other infrastructure elements supporting walking and running in the town.
Many people think exercise has to be all-or-nothing — an intense gym session or nothing at all. In reality, it can be as simple as a daily walk. Marblehead’s rail trail, fitness trail, and even our hills offer great opportunities to stay active close to home. Start small, stay consistent, and build from there. A regular daily walk can make a meaningful difference in overall health.
3.Diet
Emphasis on greater intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is probably one of the few areas where public health advocates agree completely with RFK Jr’s new inverted food pyramid, and many Marbleheaders seem to be endorsing that concept as well. For our final report we will try to see if the individuals who are eating less fruits and vegetables are those who express some financial concerns in the Financial Wellness section and perhaps even try to see how that problem might be addressed.
4.Sleep
Adequate sleep is one of the foundational pillars of optimal health and plays a critical role in supporting immune, cardiovascular, and metabolic function. Research consistently shows that regularly sleeping fewer than seven hours per night is associated with increased risk of adverse health outcomes. Given that a strong majority of our town residents report getting at least seven hours of sleep nightly, we view this as a very positive and encouraging finding
5. Demographic Profile (All data fromhealthdatatool.mass.gov.)
A. Life Expectancy at Birth (2021-23)
How many years is a person born in Marblehead in this time period can expect to live.
Marblehead 80.3 years: Essex County 80.3 years; Massachusetts 80.2 years: US 77.5 years.
Comment: Massachusetts is consistently recognized as one of the healthiest states in the country. Education, income, and social advantage typically influence life expectancy, and those patterns do appear in these data. This likely reflects, in part, the state’s strong healthcare system and low uninsured rate.
Gender-specific life expectancy data are not available for Marblehead; however, nationally, women live approximately four years longer than men.
B. Physical Health
Percentage of adults >18 who reported 14 or more days in which their physical health was not good.
Marblehead 10.5%; Essex County 13.0%; Massachusetts 12.3%; US 12.8%
Comment: Marblehead’s data appear strong overall. That may reflect our community’s strong work ethic and elements of the traditionally stoic New England culture. At the same time, other factors may also be influencing the numbers.
Census data indicate that 2.9% of Marblehead residents report having a disability, compared with 8.4% at the county level, 12% statewide, and 13% nationally. This difference raises important questions. Are there barriers – such as infrastructure, accessibility, housing, or transportation – that make it more difficult for individuals with disabilities to live and thrive here? As a community, it is worth reflecting on how inclusive and accessible our environment truly is for all residents.
C. Hypertension
Adults >18 with hypertension:
Survey Based:
Marblehead 32.3%; Essex County 32.1%; Massachusetts 30.9%; US 30.7%
Electronic Health Records Based:
Marblehead 36.9%; Essex County 38.0; %: Massachusetts 36.9%
Comment: Hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no symptoms, yet it is a major contributor to chronic conditions such as heart disease and stroke. The good news is that high blood pressure can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes and, when needed, medication. Everyone should know their blood pressure numbers and discuss them with their healthcare provider to reduce long-term health risks. Free blood pressure measurements are available from the Council on Aging at the Community Center every Thursday from 11:00 to 12:00.
D. Diabetes
Survey Based: Marblehead 8.6%; Essex County 10.3%; Massachusetts 9.8%; US 12.0%
Electronic Health Record Based:
Marblehead 9.3%; Essex County 12.0%; Massachusetts 11.4%
Comment: Diabetes can lead to serious complications, including kidney failure, blindness, cardiovascular disease, and premature death. The good news is that it can be effectively managed — and in many cases, prevented. We should all be aware of our blood sugar levels and understand our individual risk.
More than one-third of Americans have prediabetes. Encouragingly, progression to type 2 diabetes is often preventable. Knowing your status is the first step. Talk with your healthcare provider about appropriate screening, and if you are at risk, focus on healthy nutrition, regular physical activity, and weight management to significantly reduce your chances of developing diabetes.
E. Cancers New cases. All sites. Incident rate/100,000 population
Marblehead 434.3: Essex County 433.6; Massachusetts 437.2; US 444.4
Comment: Rates of new cancer diagnoses are increasing across several cancer types, particularly among younger individuals. Regular screening and early detection remain critical, as they can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival. Staying up to date with recommended screenings is one of the most effective steps individuals can take to protect their long-term health. Be sure to see your primary care clinician at least once a year to review your individual risk factors and ensure you are up to date on appropriate screenings.
F. Obesity
Percentage of adults > 18 with Body Mass Index (BMI) > 30.
Survey Based:
Marblehead 26.! %; Essex County 30.0%; Massachusetts 27.7%; US 32.8%
Electronic Health Record Based:
Marblehead 26.0; Essex County 33.2: Massachusetts 31.
Comment: Marblehead is doing relatively well compared to local and national data, but obesity remains a significant concern across the United States, which has some of the highest rates among developed countries.
Obesity is a complex condition influenced by genetics, environment, lifestyle, metabolism, and emotional health. It is not simply a matter of willpower, but the result of how biology interacts with factors such as access to healthy food, opportunities for activity, stress, sleep, and daily routines. New treatments, combined with healthy eating and regular physical activity, can lead to meaningful improvements in both weight and overall health.
Childhood obesity rates are also increasing. Families play an essential role in building healthy habits through balanced meals, regular activity, adequate sleep, and limits on screen time – helping children grow into healthy adults.
0. Wellness Fair
There is no “one size fits all” approach to healthy living – especially when it comes to exercise. The key is finding something you genuinely enjoy, because that’s what makes it sustainable. Fortunately, Marblehead offers an incredibly diverse range of health and fitness options, many of which people may not even realize are right in their own backyard.
The Wellness Fair, sponsored by the Board of Health on Feb. 28 11 a.m.-2 p.m., is a great opportunity to explore what our community has to offer. Whether you’re already feeling strong and active or looking for a little extra motivation, this event is designed to support everyone on their wellness journey. It’s one to mark on your calendar – we look forward to seeing you there.
Tom Massaro is a Marblehead resident and Chair of the Board of Health.