Chronic Disease Risk Reduction
The Chronic Disease Risk Reduction (CDRR) Program involves all areas of health that can be improved to prevent diseases and better the health of individuals and the community. Part of the CDRR is a comprehensive clean air ordinance which reduces heart attacks, improves cardiovascular health, and reduces tobacco-related illnesses within the community. The CDRR program works on the causes of other preventable diseases, especially heart disease, by encouraging daily exercise and better dietary choices.
The CDRR program staff work closely with RISE Cowley, a county-wide coalition of volunteers who work on health-related projects and programs.
RISE Cowley
RISE Cowley promotes health lifestyles through collaboration and awareness campaigns that encourage involvement from the residents of Cowley County. With help from the Pathways Grant (funded by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Kansas), RISE Cowley has brought forth many projects within the community. Some projects include updates to local farmers’ markets, new trails (including maps and bike racks) around Cowley County, breastfeeding advocacy, and tobacco cessation. For more information or to learn how to get involved, visit their website HERE.Chronic Disease Risk Reduction Areas
Tobacco Use Reduction
Tobacco use is linked to many chronic illnesses and diseases including heart disease, lung cancer, emphysema, bronchitis, and more. Reducing tobacco use or quitting entirely reduces the risk of developing these long-term diseases and significantly improves health. If you are trying to quit smoking, check the links below for some excellent resources on quitting today!
- Tobacco Quitline - A program offered by more than 700 employers and health plans in the U.S. Provides phone services and coaching for quitting tobacco use.
- KanQuit - Program providing phone services and plans for tobacco cessation.
- American Cancer Society - Health organization focusing on the elimination of cancer.
- Americans for Non-Smokers’ Rights - Educational advocacy group focusing on reduction and elimination of tobacco use.
- Resist Tobacco - Group focused on reduction of tobacco-use among Kansas youth.
- Tobacco Free Kansas - Coalition focused on eliminating tobacco use in Kansas.
Nutrition and Community Gardening
Many chronic diseases can be linked to poor diet and nutrition. The Health Department encourages healthier dietary habits by encouraging the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. With local partners, we promote local farmers' markets, assist with resources and contacts in building community gardens, and encourage nutrition education within the community. For those interested in starting their own garden or looking for resources regarding dietary and nutritional information, check the links below!
- Kansas Garden Guide PDF (Kansas State University Publication) - Kansas gardening guide produced by the K-State Research and Extension Office
- Fertilizing Gardens in Kansas PDF (Kansas State University Publication) - Kansas fertilizing guide produced by the K-State Research and Extension Office
- Choose My Plate - Tool and program encouraging healthier dietary and nutrition choices.
- This Summer, Eat Smart to Play Hard: A Parent's Guide - Brochure encouraging healthy practices for parents and their children.
- The Business Case for Breastfeeding: Steps for Creating a Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace - Group advocating for breast-feeding friendly workplaces.
Physical Activity and Trail Development
Many chronic diseases can arise due to lack of physical activity in an individual's life. With local partners, we promote the use of the trails, walking paths, and parks within the community, as well as encourage the development of new walking trails and paths. We also promote more active commuting to work/school. The addition of more physical activity and time spent outdoors can have tremendous effects on a individual's health and mental wellbeing. Check the links below for more resources!
- KDHE Physical Activity & Nutrition Program - State educational program encouraging better dietary choices and increased physical activity.
- National Complete Streets Coalition - Coalition advocating for improvements to towns and cities to make them more accessible to walkers and active commuters.
