The national health crisis of high blood pressure affects approximately 74million Americans. About one-third don’t know about it. High blood pressure, which is uncontrolled, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It is also associated with higher risks of stroke, heart attack and heart failure.

Fire fighters from across the country have joined forces with Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation to launch a program called Stop, Drop, Control High Blood Pressure Program. It is part of High Blood Pressure Awareness Month.

This community health campaign is the first of its kind. It aims to educate the 300,000 IAFF members, who protect 85 percent, and the communities they serve, about high blood pressure. More than 240 IAFF members are now equipped to host community blood pressure screenings in their localities.

Fire fighters who work to protect their communities face extreme physical and psychological stress. They have a high incidence of deaths from heart disease (45%), which may be due to high blood pressure.

“Professional fire fighters are among the most trusted and respected leaders of their communities, and know first-hand the dangers of high blood pressure,”Harold Schaitberger is president of the IAFF. “As such, they are ideal advocates to educate communities about important health and safety topics, including high blood pressure.”

Visit this site for more information on the health initiative. www.stopdropcontrol.com.

Today’s life is very fast. The rise of digital technology has allowed people to communicate with each other via the internet and simultaneously check their children’s soccer scores. With the advent of the Internet, consumers can expect the same conveniences from all services and businesses except their insurance companies. For many people struggling to pay their medical bills, this can seem like a long wait, even though 98 percent of claims for health insurance are processed in 30 days.

A lack of income in 2002 means that nearly two-thirds American households are less financially than 2002. Simply being insured does not suffice. It is important to find out how fast and easy your insurance company processes and pays claims. This is critical for both financial recovery and physical recovery.

Recent research found that 66% would not be able to adjust to the high financial cost of serious illnesses or injuries. Only 49% of workers have over $1,000 to pay out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, rising healthcare costs are forcing employers into cost-saving measures that are putting employees under greater financial pressure.

* Increasing employees’ health care insurance copayments.

* Increasing employees’ share of premium.

* Implementing high-deductible health plans with health savings accounts.

Some people might have to wait as long as a month to receive their insurance payments. Many insurance companies strive to provide fast service with better technology and better understanding of customers’ needs. This is just one example. AflacIn the insurance industry, it is rare to find policies that allow for claims approval, processing, and payment within one day.

Fast payment policies are no longer luxury items of the past. It is a necessity in today’s world. It’s vital to have funds readily available for serious illness or injury. You should ensure that your insurance company can move at your pace.

Aflac’s One Day Pay Promise can be found at aflac.com/onedaypay.