Aetna and Walgreens collaborate to educate people on taking adequate levels of Vitamin D

AetnaJan 21 2010

Aetna (NYSE: AET) and Walgreens announced today that they have joined forces to educate people about the need to take in adequate levels of Vitamin D. The two organizations are working with United Way of the Midlands on a Vitamin D giveaway program being piloted in Richland and Lexington counties in South Carolina. They will be handing out coupons that residents can redeem at Walgreens stores for free 100-day Vitamin D supplies. The program will begin Jan. 23 and run until April 24, or as long as supplies last.

“It helps people absorb calcium, which strengthens bones and teeth and helps nerves and muscles work correctly.”

The Vitamin D program is being funded through a $55,000 Aetna grant; a $50,000 grant from Walgreens; and a $400 grant from the U.S. Army. Aetna Pharmacy Management is contributing an additional $5,000 to support the effort.

Aetna and Walgreens have produced print and radio advertisements in the Columbia area, and have mailed flyers to county residents, advising them of the giveaway. In addition, they have been educating area health care providers about using Vitamin D to promote better health. Coupons for free, 100-day supplies of Vitamin D will be placed at the check-out counters at Walgreens stores. There is a limit of one supply per family.

“Vitamin D is an essential part of good health,” said Dr. Edmund Pezalla, head of Aetna’s Pharmacy operation. “It helps people absorb calcium, which strengthens bones and teeth and helps nerves and muscles work correctly.”

Unfortunately, three out of four American teens and adults do not receive the amount of Vitamin D believed to be necessary for optimal health. Vitamin D deficiency can negatively affect bone development, immune function and heart health.

“This is a serious health concern, and one Aetna cares deeply about,” Dr. Pezalla said. “When we saw an opportunity to make a positive difference, we pursued it aggressively.”

Vitamin D deficiency has a strong genetic and biological component. This vitamin is absorbed from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and many people can easily absorb the amount they need each day. But darker skin blocks more of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and as a result, African Americans are the group at highest risk for Vitamin D deficiency. Hispanics face similar risks.

"Our relationship with Aetna has provided a great opportunity for our community locations to give back to local residents," said Richard Ashworth, Walgreens market vice president. "Our pharmacists are available across more than 7,150 communities to provide pharmacy and health and wellness services."

The population in Richland and Lexington counties is approximately 45 percent African American, which is one reason the area was chosen for the pilot program. Aetna’s Columbia, S.C. office will serve as the local headquarters for the program.

“United Way recognizes that good health and wellness are essential not only to personal quality of life but also to productivity and engagement in the larger community,” said Mac Bennett, president & CEO of United Way of the Midlands. “Achieving the goal of a healthy community requires us all to become more aware of health risks and the potential effects they have on ourselves and others, and working to change policies and practices that will enable more people to live healthy lives.”