A case for
HEALTH: Nutrition and Fitness
I’m Gladys, from Columbus. A few years ago, after 34 years of nursing, I retired. But I like to stay busy, so I visit the recreation center and I walk five or six miles in my neighborhood a few times a week. I also garden, bake, and travel to visit my three daughters. Because I believe in the value of early detection and prevention, I got involved with the Central Ohio Diabetes Association. For the last 20 years I’ve continued to use my nursing skills to help out with health screenings, education and referrals. I’ve had people come up to me and say, “Thank you. You’re the one who told me my blood sugar was high and now I’m under control.” It’s very gratifying to know that I’ve helped someone take charge of his or her own health. As a nurse, you never stop caring for other people. I help others maintain good health, and that’s how I LIVE UNITED. COMMUNITY ISSUES: • In Franklin County nearly 25% of all children and 48% of African American children are overweight. • As of 2004, nearly 60% of Franklin County adults weighed too much: 37% were overweight, and another 22% were obese. In 2000, the numbers were almost 10% lower: 31% and 19%, respectively. • By reducing obesity rates, Ohio could reduce health care expenditures by $1.4 to $1.6 billion. OUR RESPONSE: • United Way has helped to reach 37,996 children with programs designed to improve nutrition and physical activity. • In 2007, 88% of participants in United Way supported fitness programs reported that they engaged in at least 30 minutes of moderate or 60 minutes of vigorous physical activity at least 5 days per week. • In 2006, 32,253 central Ohioans received screenings for diabetes and/or information or education about the disease. OUR INVESTMENT: In 2008-09, we will invest $1.8 million in programs that help people maintain healthy nutrition and physical fitness.