Knowing your body mass index and your risk for certain illnesses could make a difference, according to health care officials.

Residents of all ages took part in South Central Regional Medical Center’s Wellness Wednesday fitness assessment screening.

David Townsend, coordinator of wellness programs for SCRMC, said having a fitness assessment can help prevent many illnesses.

“Knowing your body composition, which is the amount of body fat versus the amount of lean body mass, is important,” Townsend said. “Knowing your body composition can help identify risk factors for diabetes, cardiovascular disease and hypertension.”

While obesity is a major problem in the country, Townsend said, Wednesday’s screening deals with the affects of a person being obese or overweight.

“It’s a way to educate people on why they should watch their weight,” he said. “It’s not all about how you look, but it’s also a health factor.”

Betty Tolar of Laurel said she came to the screening to find out her health status.

“I just wanted to see how fit I am,” Tolar said. “I’ve learned a lot, and learning about your health is very important.”

Betty Henderson of Laurel said she and several other ladies, who volunteer at a local nursing home each Wednesday, comes to the wellness screenings each week.

“It’s free, knowledgeable information,” Henderson said. “It’s important for us to try to stay healthy. Coming to the screenings, motivates you to help to take care of yourself.”

Townsend said being overweigh can make a difference in a person’s life.

“Typical overweight people have a greater risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension and orthopedic problems,” he explained. “Excess weight can cause stress on people’s joints. ... The main thing is to become more active.”

Rhonda Williamson, community liaison with SCRMC, said the wellness screenings are designed to identify a person’s fitness, health risks, weight and height. She said once these things are determined, it becomes easier for health officials to determine if a person has health concerns.

“We’re here to encourage people to be conscious of their health,” Williamson said. “We also provide people with nutritional education that can enhance their lives. ... We are here to help them live healthier longer lives.”

Townsend said small changes in a person’s routine can change people’s health.