Relevance 

The prevalence of adult obesity in Kentucky was 37.7% according to self-reported weight and height data from the 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.  Kentucky is among 22 states with an adult obesity rate greater than 35%. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight this concern noting that prior to 2012, no state had an adult obesity greater than 35%.  

Response 

A 5-year CDC High Obesity Grant Program (HOP) was awarded to the University of Kentucky (UK) Family & Consumer Sciences Cooperative Extension to implement health interventions in Martin County, one of few Kentucky counties with an obesity prevalence of 40.2%. Martin County faces unique challenges as a rural community including geographic isolation, poverty, and lack of access to resources key to health and well-being.  In this final year of the CDC HOP grant, the grant team utilized funding in collaboration with a local faith-based organization to work towards improving the infrastructure of areas promoting active living in Martin County.

Results 

In collaboration with local government officials and Martin County Tourism, the UK CDC HOP grant team implemented several strategies this year to enhance areas in the community where residents could participate in physical activity. Three additional wayfinding signs were installed at local parks and trails to encourage walking and use of public spaces. Tennis courts at two local parks were resurfaced and upgraded to include new tennis nets, windscreens and seating with sun protection. Lastly, a landscape architecture assessment was provided for Martin County Lake, a spot frequented by residents. The assessment provided suggestions on how to best make the area more user friendly, including ADA-accessible accommodation. These strategies would not have been possible without the work of the UK CDC HOP grant team.

Public Value Statement 

The goal is to reduce obesity by enhancing areas key to increasing physical activity in a community facing many limitations due to their rural, geographic location.