Mega Doctor News
It’s no secret: A healthier life begins with healthy choices.
Whether your goal is to eat better, move more, reduce stress or improve your overall well-being, small lifestyle changes can lead to lasting benefits for your physical, mental and emotional health. Every healthy choice, no matter how small, can help lay the foundation for a longer, happier and more fulfilling life.
“While genetics play a role in determining overall health and longevity, many of the factors that influence how well we age are within our control,” says Chris Casso, MD, FAAFP, DABOM, a board-certified family medicine physician and Diplomate of Obesity Medicine with South Texas Health System (STHS) Clinics. “From staying active and eating nutritious foods to managing stress and prioritizing preventive care, the choices we make every day can have a significant impact on our quality of life for years to come.”
Approximately 6 in 10 U.S. adults live with at least one chronic disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while 4 in 10 have two or more, underscoring the importance of preventive care and healthy lifestyle habits.
Adopting healthy behaviors, such as regular physical activity, balanced nutrition and effective stress management, can have a profound impact on both physical and mental well-being. These habits can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions, boost energy levels and enhance overall quality of life.
Despite the well-documented benefits of healthy living, a recent study by researchers at Oregon State University found that fewer than 3% of Americans meet the basic criteria for a healthy lifestyle. Those standards include engaging in at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week, maintaining a healthy weight, following recommended dietary guidelines and avoiding tobacco use.
While adopting healthier habits can be challenging, support from family and community can make a meaningful difference. Families who embrace healthy behaviors together tend to experience better long-term health outcomes, improved mental well-being and a stronger sense of connection.
“Healthy habits start at home and are strengthened through support from family and community,” says Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “When families commit to living healthier together, they are more likely to achieve lasting success and enjoy the benefits of improved overall well-being.”
To help families discover practical ways to live healthier together, STHS will host its sixth annual Transform Your Life Health & Wellness Day, a free community event featuring engaging, family-friendly activities that promote physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Taking place on Saturday, July 18, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Tres Lagos North Park, located at 4900 Tres Lagos Blvd. in McAllen, the event will feature Zumba, yoga, football, basketball, pickleball and other fitness activities, as well as healthy cooking demonstrations, mental wellness activities and a community resource expo showcasing local organizations that support healthy living.
“From fitness programs and recreational facilities to neighborhood parks and hike-and-bike trails, there are countless resources available across the Rio Grande Valley to help residents embrace a healthier lifestyle,” says Castañeda. “Through STHS’ Transform Your Life Health & Wellness Day, we’re connecting community members with those resources while providing fun, interactive opportunities to learn, get active and take meaningful steps toward better health.”
For more information about the Transform Your Life Health & Wellness Day, including a schedule of activities, visit STHSActive.com or contact the STHS Marketing Department at 956-388-2020.
| Who: | South Texas Health System |
| What: | Transform Your Life Health & Wellness Day |
| When: | Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |
| Where: | Tres Lagos North Park4900 Tres Lagos Blvd. McAllen, TX 78504 |
