KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - Today, King County Executive Ron Sims proclaimed June 2000 as "Healthy People and Healthy Communities Month" and urged the residents of King County to join him in this celebration by taking action to improve and promote health for themselves, their loved ones, and the entire community.
"I want King County to become known around the world as the healthiest place on the planet, a place where individuals, communities, and government work together to foster the healthiest people living in the healthiest families and communities," Sims said. "Healthy living by all of us is a centerpiece for enhancing the quality of life here in the Northwest.
To help realize this vision, Sims challenged the residents of King County to adopt and maintain at least one, new, healthy activity during June and then to maintain it throughout the summer months.
"Chose something that you can accomplish, but also that pushes you a little," said Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County. "Simple things can really make a difference such as walking for 30 minutes four times a week, eating five fruits and vegetables every day, or always wearing a helmet when biking or skateboarding."
King County has many accomplishments in the public health arena, including:
In addition, King County has the second highest child immunization rate among urban areas in the United States, an award winning Public Health Nursing Team, and one of the premiere restaurant inspection programs anywhere.
"Clearly, King County has already made great progress in improving the health of its residents and communities," added Sims. "But health disparities for some still persist, particularly among racial, ethnic, and sexual minorities. We must work together to eliminate these gaps and assure that every resident of King County is healthy, safe, and prepared for life and living fully."
