Let’s work together for better health

By Pramod Dwivedi

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Last month, the third annual County Health Rankings were released by the University of Wisconsin in partnership with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The rankings compare counties in each state, based on health outcomes (death and illness), and health factors (behaviors, clinical care, social and economic factors, and physical environment). This year, Linn County ranks 21st in health factors among Iowa's 99 counties, indicating we enjoy relatively superior health.

But there are areas for concerns. For example, overweight/obesity, smoking, physical inactivity, excessive drinking and mental health remain pressing health issues in our county. These can be addressed by reducing risky behaviors such as smoking, excessive drinking, lack of exercise and not eating enough fruits and vegetables.

The Linn County Public Health (LCPH), the county Board of Supervisors and the county Board of Health have long recognized the role these factors play in our health and longevity. We are joining forces with the businesses, health care providers, consumers and community leaders to improve the health of county residents.

Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable death. Trends in smoking have been downward, but rates for Linn County and Iowa remain high. Unhealthy food and physical inactivity are the second-leading cause of preventable death. Linn County and Iowa obesity rates are higher than the national average, and are climbing.

Linn County has been working on strategies to improve the health of its residents. There are many miles of green trails and bikeways. City of Cedar Rapids is working on developing more bike lanes. The LCPH is involved in leading the Cedar Rapids Blue Zone initiative. With a focus on moving naturally, having the right outlook, eating wisely and social connectivity, Blue Zones embody the public health mission of preventing illness and disease by making the healthy choice easier.

April marked LCPH's second year of partnering with local community colleges to offer free Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)/Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) and HIV testing.

The LCPH used federal funding for a multifaceted campaign supporting prevention and a tobacco-free environment.

With the supervisors and Board of Health, we plan to create a partnership with area schools in support of healthier school lunches and more physical activity.

Health is everybody's responsibility. We will succeed through partnerships. Schools, colleges, churches, communities, employers and families are cordially invited!

Pramod Dwivedi is Health Director, Linn County Public Health. Comments: Pramod.Dwivedi@linncounty.org