|
|
About Us
County Impact Statements - Drew County
Extension Programs Promote Healthy Living
Five of the major causes of death in Arkansas are lifestyle-related chronic
diseases. The cost of treating and caring for people with the leading
diet-related illnesses (heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes) is
estimated at $3.9 billion yearly. The Extension Service is helping to combat
these problems in Drew County by promoting healthier lifestyles through a
variety of programs.
Reshape Yourself is an Extension program that encourages sensible food
selections and walking for exercise. The program focuses on making lifelong
behavioral changes rather than "Quick Fixes". Participants meet on a weekly
basis to be educated and encouraged. During 2001 participants lost 398 pounds
and walked 1593 miles. Participants also reported reduced high blood pressure,
reduced high blood cholesterol levels, and reduced high blood glucose levels.
"Being accountable each week helped motivate me. I think the key to my
success was walking almost every day, at least 2 miles, sometimes 4 miles." –
Martha Carlson
Monthly programs on healthy living are also conducted at the Other Way, the
Senior Citizens Center, and with individual Extension Homemaker Clubs.
The Drew County Extension office publishes monthly newsletters, weekly
newspaper articles, and bi-weekly radio programs which promote healthy living
through a healthier lifestyle.
Drew County Consumer Science Agent Donna Francis counsels
Cristal Smith during Reshape Yourself training.
|
Impacts
- Reshape Yourself participants reported losing 398 pounds and walking
1,593 miles.
- Reshape Yourself participants reported reducing their high blood
pressure, reducing their high blood cholesterol, and reducing high blood
glucose levels.
- Monthly newsletters are sent to 228 Drew County families. The newsletter
incorporates articles on diet, exercise, food safety, and other topics on
healthy living.
- 2 Weekly radio programs on KHBM promote healthy living through healthy
lifestyles.
|
