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County: Healthy choices necessary

A recent study shows Chautauqua County needs some healthier attitudes. According to a report released last week by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Johnson Foundation, the county ranks near the bottom when compared to others in New York state in the category of health outcomes and health factors.

Some of this can be blamed on the weather. It is tough to get outside and move when there’s still 2 feet of snow outside. But sometimes, we are our own worst enemy.

We’re right at the top for highest obesity rates and smoking, according to the study. “We have known for some time that there is much work to be done to improve health in Chautauqua County, but these data points reinforce the need for community action to improve health behaviors such as tobacco use, nutrition, and physical activity,” said Christine Schuyler, director of health and human services in the county. “The most recent CDC surveys indicate that Chautauqua County has the highest adult smoking rate and adult obesity rate in New York State. We all play a role in making our community healthier, and it’s time to step up and make changes — individually and at the organization and community levels.”

One of the organizations trying to keep healthy ways on the minds of residents is CHQ250, which provides monthly articles to the OBSERVER as well as weekly tips on how to stay active.

Think about this: if you walk for 30 minutes, you will have between 3,500 and 4,700 steps for the day. You should be getting about 10,000 steps daily.

Sure, we can blame the weather for our health. We can even blame the lack of sun in the winter months. But when it comes right down to it, being healthy is an individual choice.

Now, let’s all get moving!

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