For Release: April 1, 2010
Contact: Pamela Williams
Office of Communications
(405) 271-5601  

Public Health Week Suggests “Starting Small/Think Big”

National Public Health Week, April 5-11, is the perfect time to encourage family, friends and neighbors to work together to help make Oklahoma a healthier state. Small commitments to health, wellness and injury prevention can have a big impact when they are spread throughout an entire family and community.

“While health care reform has certainly captured much attention in the last year, real health reform starts when all of us make that personal commitment to improve our health,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Cline. “Health improvements can only come about when we shift from a system of sick care to one that is focused on the prevention of disease and injury. Whether you take small steps like trying a new healthy recipe, going for a short walk, or making sure your child is wearing a helmet when riding a bike – or if you decide to make a major behavior change like stopping smoking – these practices can ultimately result in changes that will improve our state’s health outcomes.”

While it’s no secret that Oklahomans struggle with obesity, child health issues and tobacco use, Cline noted that there is now an organized effort in place through the Oklahoma Health Improvement Plan to make the changes necessary to overcome those obstacles keeping Oklahoma from becoming a healthier state. The Oklahoma Health Improvement Plan, launched last December, outlines numerous key priorities and outcomes that support health improvements. The plan was mandated by the Oklahoma Legislature in 2008. To view a copy of the plan, visit www.health.ok.gov.

“Every Oklahoman has a stake and a role in improving our state health outcomes,” Cline emphasized. “If Oklahoma was able to simply match the national average in health status indicators, 5,320 Oklahoma lives would be saved every year.”

In addition to making small health changes at home, Cline encouraged Oklahomans to consider getting involved in community programs that encourage weight loss or that support safe walking paths and bike trails. Citizens can also be supportive of those school programs that require more physical education and that are working to offer healthier and nutritious meals.

“By working together to eat better, move more, and be tobacco free, we can improve our state’s health one person, one family, and one community at a time,” Cline said.

National Public Health Week is sponsored annually by the American Public Health Association to celebrate the role of public health in communities throughout the nation. For information about public health programs in your area, contact your local county health department.

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