Editor,

As part of the degree requirements for obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from WVU, students were required to chose a Healthy People 2010 Objective that aims to improve the health and lifestyles of the citizens of his/her community. After extensive research, the most prevalent health need for Logan County was determined to be in the areas of nutrition and obesity awareness. Statistics from the CDC ranked West Virginia third in obesity prevalence in 2006.

According to the WVDHHR, Logan County ranked 1st in obesity prevalence among WV counties with a rate of 40.4 percent, and the county ranked 8th in the state for lack of leisure activity. These statistics alone presented a health crisis for the citizens of Logan County.

Citizens must take action to control this obesity epidemic for not only adults, but children as well. Studies show that overweight children and adolescents can be at a greater risk for health problems during their youth and as adults. Easy steps such as limiting the amount of fast-food consumed and promoting healthy snacks like fruits and vegetables can help reduce obesity rates. Engaging in an active lifestyle with walking, jogging, or bicycling can help boost metabolism in adults and children.

By making simple lifestyle changes, citizens can decrease the risk of many diseases and health conditions related to poor nutrition and obesity including hypertension, osteoarthritis, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea and respiratory problems, and some cancers.

For more info visit www.wvdhhr.org/bph/hp2010/objective/19.htm

Kristin Neal, R.N.

Logan