Health Department Reveals Plan To Make Tulsa County Healthier

Tulsa County has been to the doctor and the results are not good.

The health department reports that people in Tulsa County need to lose weight and improve their health, and it has started a new project to help. It's called the Tulsa County Community Health Improvement Plan.

Oklahoma's obesity rate has risen steadily since 2001. Now, 30 percent of Oklahoma adults are considered obese. That puts our state 45th in the country for its obesity rate, according to the United Health Foundation, and 43rd for overall health.

"If things continue as they are, our children are not going to live as long as us," said Bruce Dart, of the Tulsa City-County Health Department.

He announced Tuesday a new plan to improve the health of Tulsa County residents.

"If we're healthy, we're wealthy, and without health status--it's so fundamental to quality of life that not a whole lot else matters," Dart said.

The health department is teaming up with Pathways to Health.

The goal is to address six major areas: diet and exercise, obesity, drug and alcohol abuse, chronic disease, healthcare, and tobacco use.

The health department is working with 40 local agencies and plans to use social media to spread the word and encourage pastors to talk to their congregations.

"If we can improve the health of our citizens, then they'll be able to, indeed, complete their education process. If they're able to complete their education process, economics improve. When the economics improve, health improves," said Jan Figart, with the Community Service Council.

Organizers say they won't be forcing residents to eat healthy, they just want to pass on tips and advice to those who make decisions for their families.

We're not here to tell you how to live your life. We're here to give you information that can help you as an individual or can help your family make those choices that are absolutely best for you," Dart said.

Go here for more information about the program and to find out how you can help.