Licking County Health Department Awarded Grant

September 23, 2011

LICKING COUNTY, OHIO – The Licking County Health Department has been awarded a grant to assist schools and businesses in adopting tobacco-free campus policies in Licking County.  The department will also work with day care centers throughout the county to implement wellness policies.  The grant was awarded by Hamilton County Public Health for a total of $20,000.    

“Our department is excited to have the opportunity to work with our partners to implement this program.” said Joe Ebel, Licking County Health Commissioner.  “We know that tobacco use and childhood obesity are significant health problems in Licking County, and this funding will allow us to address these problems and improve the health of county residents.”

The adult smoking rate in Licking County is 27%, and the Ohio Department of Health indicates that 31% of the third grade students in the county are overweight or obese.  Addressing these problems can lead to the reduction in chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer, and high blood pressure. 

If you have any questions about these health conditions or the project that will be implemented by the Health Department please call 740-349-6535 or visit www.lickingcohealth.org 

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