What do Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Michigan, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin have in common?

On July 1, 2008 each was selected from among 51 applicants to receive a second round of funding over a 5 year period from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Their charge is to develop and implement programs that will prevent obesity and other chronic diseases among state residents.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out why obesity and chronic disease prevention are important. The good news is that both can be easily achieved. All you have to do is:

• increase breastfeeding rates (initiation, exclusivity and duration)
• increase fruit and vegetable intake
• increase physical activity
• decrease intake of sweetened beverages and energy dense food
• decrease TV time

Georgia takes the initiative
The first round of funding was awarded to 28 states. Georgia is one of only 15 states (out of the original 28) to receive second round funding. In addition to the 15 states, eight new states have been selected, for a total of 23.

Georgia’s Nutrition & Physical Activity Initiative To Prevent and Control Obesity and Chronic Diseases in Georgia will focus on health disparities and sustainability. Two new staff positions will be added—a communications specialist and a health educator.

Efforts are currently underway to update Georgia’s State Plan. Task force members will be asked to consider the accomplishments of the first five years and formulate an action plan for the next five years. A nutrition and physical activity council made up of current workgroup co-chairs and steering committee members will provide oversight during the next 5 year phase.

Kudos to Georgia and to all those who have worked hard to help Georgians live healthy!