Healthy mind, healthy body Published Aug. 3, 2012 By Michele Pittman 42 Aeromedical-Dental Squadron MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. - -- As the nation and military forge ahead with a strong emphasis on preventing diseases before they become a costly medical condition, the Maxwell Health and Wellness Center offers programs, classes and instruction in preventive health. "The HAWC serves as an excellent resource for fitness/performance training and instruction employing the most advanced theory and techniques available," said Master Sgt. Henry Myers, dietary technician. The HAWC offers one-on-one support to assist base population with smoking cessation. Additionally, nutrition counseling is provided in a class setting or one-on-one for those with more restrictive meal planning concerns. "Building a healthy meal plan can help produce a strong foundation for a healthy life," said RoShanda Gaddis, health education dietitian. The HAWC also teams with other base agencies to support stress management intervention, striving to educate the population through community outreach events like health fairs, instruction at commanders' calls, in-services to units and cooking demonstrations. Health promotion is vital to addressing the growing concerns for our populace's overall health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alabama has the third highest obesity rate in the country at 32.5 percent. Alabama did not fare much better in tobacco-related diseases either. The Alabama Department of Public Health, has Alabama listed with the seventh highest adult smoking rate in the nation. In the near future, the HAWC will broaden its programs with new advanced holistic nutrition and fitness education classes to include functional movement screenings to correct and prevent overuse injuries from faulty exercise movement mechanics. The Maxwell HAWC will take the lead in being there for Airmen, making them fitter, healthier, stronger and ready for the mission whenever they are called. For information, contact the Health and Wellness Center at 953-7117.