Clay County is a small rural county in Eastern Kentucky, families are encouraged to make choices to improve health and well-being, participate in physical activity, and chronic disease prevention. According to 2014 statistics 43% of Clay County is obese with 18% of the adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, and 33% of the adults do not meet the standard activity level. Learning and practicing healthy choices at a young age can impact the quality and years of life. 

The Family and Consumer Science Agent worked with the Markey Cancer Center, The Alzheimer’s Association and Memorial Hospital to present a one day program with two guest speakers, Strong Women Healthy Women Luncheon.  16 attended the program, 25% of the evaluations were returned at the end of 3 months with the following results

100% had their Cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure checked 

75% have become more active

25% increased the consumption of fruits and vegetables

50% increased the consumption of fiber in the diet

75% decreased the consumption of soft drinks and sweets in the diet

75% received new information

50% shared the information with others

Comments, “I have decreased the consumption of sweets, soft drinks and sugar in my diet”.  “I am watching what I eat now.”