RUMFORD — Rumford Hospital will sponsor Walk With a Doc, a wellness education program, beginning Sept. 10.

Each installment of the six-session program will feature a brief presentation by a doctor followed by a 45-minute walk. Topics of discussion will focus on health issues such as heart failure, diabetes and asthma.

Participants will meet at Hosmer Field at 5:30 p.m. for a five- to seven-minute presentation by a doctor. Following the presentation, the doctor will accompany participants on the walking course.

“Research shows that someone gains two hours of life for each hour of regular exercise,” said Robin Gilbert, manager of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation at Rumford Hospital. “Walking is a low impact activity. It is safe and easier on the body than running. People with orthopedic problems, heart conditions and those struggling with their weight can benefit from a simple walking regimen.”

Gilbert is also education manager at Rumford Hospital and Bridgton Hospital.

She said people with health concerns should get their health care provider’s okay before beginning a walking program.

The Walk With a Doc sessions are set for Sept. 10, 17 and 24 and Oct. 1, 8 and 15. Registration is not required. Those who wish to participate are welcomed to just turn out for the walks.

According to the American Heart Association, walking has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity, and walking for as little as 30 minutes a day can have the following health benefits: Reduce the risk of coronary heart disease; improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels; maintain body weight and lower the risk of obesity; enhance mental well-being; improve blood lipid profile; reduce the risk of osteoporosis, breast and colon cancer and Type 2 diabetes.

For more information call the Rumford Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at 369-1136 or Robin Gilbert at 369-1245.