About Us
County Impact Statements - Jefferson County
Health, Nutrition and Food Safety: Preventive Health Care
Programs are conducted throughout the year to enable Jefferson County
residents to live healthier lives by developing skills in preventive health
care. Programs in FY '03 reached residents of all ages, from preschool children
to senior citizens.
Americans have the safest food supply in the world but over 3 million people
suffer from food borne illnesses each year. Education in handwashing techniques
and the safe handling of food are key to preventing food borne illness. The
elderly, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic diseases are at
the greatest risk for severe illness from bacteria in food. Lessons were taught
monthly at two local senior citizens centers helping 70 residents adopt
practices that would protect them from serious food borne illness. Children were
taught the importance of washing their hands and techniques to help them wash
correctly.
Low-fat, low sodium diets are heart-healthy and can be delicious when
prepared using other healthier ingredients for flavor. A state-wide compressed
video program was conducted from an AHEC classroom to teach ways to prepare
meals without added fat or sodium. Twelve participants at AHEC enjoyed a heart
healthy lunch prepared on site.
A skin cancer exhibit was placed on display at the Aquaculture Field Day to
remind those who work outside that protection of the skin from burning rays is a
must in preventing skin cancer.
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Joyce Whittington, County Extension Agent- Staff Chair, demonstrates a
heart-healthy meal. |
Impacts
- 70 Senior Citizens adopted new practices in food safety as a result of
programs at Bradshaw & Pine Bluff Senior Citizens Centers.
- Thirty-five pre-school children improved hand washing techniques as a
result of programs at Mrs. Teri’s Day Care.
- 525 adults gained knowledge in the safe preservation of food.
- Six youth gained knowledge in making healthy food choices as a result of
a program at Indiana Street Baptist Church.
- Twelve participants at AHEC learned to prepare heart-healthy meals.
- 100 individuals gained knowledge in preventing skin cancer.
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