Results from the recent Todd County Community Health Survey were released during a meeting of community leaders Monday afternoon and three areas of emphasis were set for the next five years.
Dr. Angie Carman from the University of Kentucky presented and spoke at length on the survey results, activities of the last five years to address health issues and what should be the focus for the future.
The various agencies agreed on maintaining an emphasis on reducing drug abuse, combating obesity through promoting a healthier lifestyle among families and educating women about prenatal care and successful parenting techniques.
Jen Harris is the Todd County Health Department Director and says successful groups and initiatives are already in place to teach the dangers of drug abuse to people at a young age.
Obesity was also among items survey-takers found to be a major problem and Harris says using the family approach directed at healthier eating habits and increased activity can have an impact.
The Health Department will work with partner agencies to bring in expectant mothers in hopes of helping them through a healthy pregnancy that will transition into positive parenting.
Drug use was by far the issue most survey takers saw as an issue that needs to be addressed, followed by obesity, poverty and access to physical activity opportunities.