American General Life Insurance Company is rolling out a product aimed at consumers who want protection against 12 terrible diseases and medical conditions.

American General, Houston, a unit of American International Group Inc., New York, has rolled out the AIG CriticalCare Plus insurance policy.

The policy can pay a lump-sum benefit of up to $500,000 to policyholders who have a heart attack, a stroke, cancer, or 9 other devastating medical conditions.

Customers can choose a lifetime plan or plans with terms of 10, 15, 20 or 30 years.

Although the maximum benefits is $500,000, applicants who want more than $100,000 in coverage must undergo underwriting, American General says.

The policy pays full benefits through age 70. After 70, it can pay benefits for loss of independent living.

One benefit that should appeal to consumers who plan to stay healthy is a preventive care benefit that can pay for health screening tests, according to American General.