GOVERNOR KICKS OFF "HEALTHY WEIGHT 2008" CAMPAIGN

Governor Donald L. Carcieri and State Health Department Director Dr. David Gifford joined officials at Thundermist Health Center to unveil a year-long wellness initiative, Healthy Weight in 2008, to emphasize the importance of this project for the overall health of Rhode Island.

"While being named the first 'Well State' in the nation is an important milestone in our wellness initiative, it is also an incentive to redouble our efforts to convince our citizens to eat healthy and to exercise," Governor Carcieri said. "Healthy Weight in 2008 will help Rhode Islanders learn about and participate in the many activities and events being planned this year. Our campaign will act as an invaluable health resource to everyone in the state: children, seniors, people with disabilities, adults, and families."

In Rhode Island, a total of 56 percent of adults are overweight or obese: 18 percent of Rhode Islanders are obese and another 38 percent are overweight. Health conditions related to overweight and obesity include high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, asthma, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, depression, and various cancers. According to the National Governors Association (NGA), taxpayers pay for half the cost of the nation's medical expenses directly attributed to obesity.

In the State of Rhode Island, that translates to $185 per taxpayer each year. The Governor's campaign will be an important tool in reducing the incidence of overweight and obesity.

Healthy Weight in 2008 community partners include:
Shape Up RI
Rhode Island Department of Health's Initiative for Healthy Weight
Neighborhood Health Plan of RI
UnitedHealthcare of New England
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island's Health & Wellness Institute
Rhode Island Medical Society
Rhode Island Kids First
Department of Environmental Management
Department of Elderly Affairs
YMCA of Greater Providence
Preventure

"Rhode Islanders should stay tuned all through the year for Healthy Weight in 2008 events and information that will be fun and helpful," the Governor said. "Once again, Rhode Island will lead the way in wellness."

Source: News Release, Jan. 30, 2008