Modesto Bee Article

By Phoebe Leung, SCHSA Assistant Director
last updated: October 08, 2008 03:17:39 AM

Applause goes to the Stanislaus County Office of Education for launching the "Fit for the Future" campaign to reduce childhood obesity and increase fitness ("Focused on Fitness," Sept. 28, Page A-1). Obesity and sedentary lifestyle are the two major risk factors contributing to chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and hypertension. To prevent chronic diseases, it is important that people change their behavior and practice healthy lifestyles. In addition, these practices need to be supported by the environment we live in, such as access to and choices of affordable, healthy foods as well as a safe environment for increased physical activity.

The Stanislaus County Health Services Agency, together with our community partners, has been addressing obesity and heart disease for several years. We focus on promoting systems change: employee wellness, increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables for schoolchildren and in neighborhoods, walkable communities and increasing physical activity for children in schools.

It is wonderful to see community leaders and organizations band together to fight obesity. This effort will create a healthier next generation.

PHOEBE LEUNG

assistant director,

Health Services Agency

Modesto