WHEREAS, the rate of obesity in the United States has reached proportions of great concern; and
WHEREAS, the rate of obesity, accompanied with related diseases and maladies in Columbus County, has surpassed that of the national average in which Governor Mike Easley has shown concern; and
WHEREAS, preventable and controllable diseases, including asthma, diabetes, cancer and heart disease, cost the state and local governments and private employers billions of dollars every year; and
WHEREAS, diabetes increased among North Carolinians by 75% between 1995 and 2002, and diabetes-related hospitalization costs totaled $2.4 billion in 2002 alone; and
WHEREAS, Columbus Countians can take advantage of many activities that will improve their health and help prevent and control disease, with small changes in diet and activity, having a dramatic impact on health in the long term; and
WHEREAS, studies have shown that health promotion and disease management programs in major private sector companies have saved, on average, $3.00 for every $1.00 invested; and
WHEREAS, the Columbus County Board of Commissioners is concerned about the health and welfare of its citizens; and
WHEREAS, Columbus County Drops a Ton is a healthy initiative for the citizens of Columbus County that will run throughout the year 2005 in a project named 'Fit in 2005'; and
WHEREAS, this project will encourage citizens to adopt health lifestyles that they may maintain throughout their lives and will challenge citizens to join together as a group to lose a total of 2,000 pounds in 2005, and 'gain a ton of healthy knowledge'.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Columbus County Board of Commissioners that 2005 be proclaimed the 'Fit in Five' year of good health for Columbus County and citizens be encouraged to participate in Columbus County Drops a Ton.
ADOPTED this the 20th day of September, 2004.
