Two Great Health Programs

Bay County, like many other areas in Michigan and the United States suffers from high rates of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In fact, Bay County is part of a five county region in the central part of Michigan that has higher than average rates of mortality due to these diseases. Many residents find it difficult to start a healthy diet or exercise program and simply don't know where to begin.

Starting this summer, the Bay County Health Department will be offering two innovative programs to help local residents become healthy. The first is the Diabetes Prevention Program or DPP, which offers 10 classes on starting and maintaining a proper diet and exercise program as well as education about the signs and symptoms of type II diabetes. Knowledge gained during these informative classes can help a person keep that healthy lifestyle.

In addition, the Health Department will be piloting a "Prescription for Health" program with funds from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. This innovative program works with local health care providers to "prescribe" a diet supplemented with fruits and vegetables from local supermarkets and works in conjunction with programs like DPP. For more information about either of these programs contact Tracy Metcalfe by email at metcalfet@baycounty.net or by phone at 989-895-2027.